Homemade Taco Seasoning! All you need are 2 tablespoons to match one of those store-bought packets. It’s a better mix too!
You will think that one of the ingredients is very unusual, and it is, but what a fantastic addition. I’m not going to ‘reveal’ the special addition yet but it is actually ‘a natural’.
I tripled this taco seasoning recipe when I made it because I make a lot of Mexican style food and I thought it would be great to just have this on hand at all times. It is great in taco salads too!
You won’t believe the recipes that I end up adding it too. Taco seasoning in my tofu scramble instead of cumin? Yes! Taco seasoning in my Chipotle Scones? Always!
Just wait until tomorrow! Well, yesterday has come and gone but I posted Slow Cooker Black Bean Burritos using this wonderful spice mixture. One of my most popular recipes on the blog.
Look how easy they are to grab on the go too!
I save all of mine. I’m kind of jar crazy … and glass crazy.
Everything is on display in my house. If it’s little and rolls around or colorful or sparkly then it’s in a glass container. Lid or not but if there are lids then they are usually glass too.
Spices make an especially pretty display so you don’t need to hide them in a cupboard. I also have a display rack on the wall that holds my herbs and spices just right. Love having the extra space in my pantry.
For this recipe, I wanted to actually use specific spice jars and certain sizes so I took advantage of the blog and went shopping for pretty little containers.
This is going to be one of many spice mixes that will be on the blog in the future. Each ingredient is the perfect amount for a great blend. So let’s get going!
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What Can I Use Taco Seasoning For?
- It’s not only for tacos! Here are a couple more ideas.
- Mix it in your burrito stuffing for some great taste. Vegan Rice and Bean Burrito’s are perfect for this idea.
- You can always add more than a recipe calls for to get extra spice. Chipotle Scones could handle maybe another 1/2 teaspoon.
Want Some More Homemade Seasoning Mix Ideas?
- Another extremely versatile mix. – Homemade Chili Seasoning Mix
- Homemade Italian Seasoning – The ever-popular seasoning mix for all your pasta favorites.
- Don’t forget your special sweets – Homemade Pumpkin Pie Spice
- Homemade Garam Masala Seasoning – This mix takes your Middle Eastern recipes a long way.
Take a quick peek at the Homemade Chili Seasoning Mix. It’s pretty too but with its own unique ingredients.
Here is a picture of the taco seasoning ingredients. Waiting to be blended together. So many pretty colors and such good taste.
Homemade Taco Seasoning
Ingredients
- 2 Tablespoon chili powder plus 1 teaspoon
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1 teaspoon cocoa powder
- 1 teaspoon ground coriander
- 2 teaspoon sea salt
- 2 teaspoon oregano ground or ground Mexican oregano
- 3 teaspoon cumin ground
Instructions
- I have a spice mill so I ground up the dried oregano for the mix. You can also just crush it more with your fingers. It will still work great in the mixture.
- Mix all of the ingredients and store in a jar with a tight lid.
- Ground and dried spices last two to three years so there is no problem in keeping them on your shelf.
Nutrition
Two tablespoons equal one packet of store bought taco seasoning.
Now see? You didn’t even have to go out and spend any extra money. You already had everything in your cupboard for this taco seasoning recipe.
That really makes me feel accomplished when things get organized and pretty all at the same time.
The fact that the ‘pretty’ improves the food isn’t a bad thing either.
Ginny McMeans
You are so welcome Alice! It is amazing what a little cocoa will do in some recipes. The black beans sound so good.
Alice
I haven’t made this yet but I’m sure it is perfect. And I will be making it. I have the perfect little jar for it and I’ll purchase more for your other mixes I look forward to making. As far as cocoa I always include it in the spicy, saucy, black beans that are my staple. (I eat Whole Foods Plant Based.) Thanks for all and thanks for the idea to display the mixes in cute jars.
Ginny McMeans
That’s great Susan. Yes, the amount of cocoa powder is very important. It adds just a little depth of flavor.
susan
Was not surprised by the addition of the cocoa powder, but had forgotten about it. Have added to my vegan chili, but my husband didn’t care for it. But adding it to this recipe. So thank you..
Ginny McMeans
You are so welcome Dash. I appreciate you letting us know. Thanks!
Dash
Made this tacos seasoning and boy was it delicious. I added a few teaspoons to some Gardien Meatless crumbles and later made enchiladas. Huge hit! Thanks for sharing.
Ginny McMeans
No Carrie, just use it however it’s specified in any recipe.
Carrie
Do you still need to add water like the store packet says?
Laura
I am always looking for homemade spices and this one looks delicious. Cocoa? I definitely need to try it.
Dahn
the cocoa does sound unusual but I bet it makes a great mix, gonna have to try it
Ginny McMeans
It’s fun too Deanna! 🙂
Deanna
Oh I need to make this! I am always buying the little packets. It would be great to make my own!
Ginny McMeans
It really is a good way to go Amy! Thanks so much.
Ginny McMeans
That makes me super happy too Jessie!
Amy @ The Cook Report
I love making my own spice blends and this one looks fab!
Jessie Gunaseelan
I have been waiting for some thing like this and now I am super happy!
Ginny McMeans
That is great Kari. It is also a great way to use of some of those spices before they go bad. I find that time really flies in my spice cupboard. 🙂
Kari
I use taco seasoning quite often in my dishes, considering my husband and I both love Mexican food. I don’t know why I’ve never thought to make my own, considering I am very conscious about what I eat and I have a ton of spices in my cupboard. I guess habit? But, now I’ll be making my own. Yay!
Ginny McMeans
What a wonderful gift. She is going to love it Candice!