Description
Homemade Taco Seasoning blends robust spices into a flavor-packed mix that elevates Mexican-inspired dishes with authentic zest. Sprinkle this versatile blend over meats, vegetables, or grains to create delicious meals you’ll crave again and again.
Ingredients
Scale
Spices and Seasonings:
- 2 tablespoons chili powder
- 1 tablespoon ancho chili powder
- 1 tablespoon chipotle chili powder
- 2 tablespoons cumin
- 2 tablespoons oregano
- 4 teaspoons garlic powder
- 2 teaspoons paprika
- 2 teaspoons smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon cocoa powder
Dry Ingredients:
- 6 tablespoons cornmeal
- 2 tablespoons dried minced onion
Salt and Flavor Enhancers:
- 4 teaspoons sea salt or kosher salt
- 1 teaspoon Better Than Bouillon Beef Base (optional)
Meat and Liquid:
- 1 pound 80/20 ground beef
- ¼ cup homemade taco seasoning
- 1 ¼ cups water
Instructions
Taco Seasoning Preparation:
- Combine all dry spices in a medium mixing bowl, whisking thoroughly to ensure uniform distribution of ingredients.
- Transfer the seasoning blend into a sealed storage container, such as a glass jar or airtight plastic vessel, for future use.
Ground Beef Taco Method:
- Place ground beef in a skillet over medium heat, breaking it into small crumbles while cooking and removing excess fat if preferred.
- Sprinkle prepared taco seasoning over the meat and pour water into the pan, stirring to coat beef evenly.
- For enhanced depth of flavor, incorporate beef base concentrate, which amplifies the savory profile of the meat.
- Allow the mixture to simmer gently, stirring occasionally, until the liquid reduces and transforms into a rich, slightly thickened sauce.
- Monitor the cooking process carefully to maintain moisture and prevent overcooking, ensuring the meat remains tender and succulent.
- Once the sauce reaches the desired consistency, remove from heat and serve immediately with preferred accompaniments like crisp taco shells, soft tortillas, or atop a fresh salad.
Notes
- Customize the seasoning blend by adjusting spice levels to match your heat tolerance, adding more chili powder or cayenne for extra kick.
- Make a large batch of taco seasoning and store in an airtight container for up to 6 months, creating a convenient pantry staple for quick meal preparation.
- Transform this recipe into a low-sodium version by reducing salt and using salt-free chili powder, perfect for those monitoring sodium intake.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 5-7 minutes
- Category: Snacks, Lunch, Dinner
- Method: Simmering
- Cuisine: Mexican
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4
- Calories: 300
- Sugar: 1 g
- Sodium: 800 mg
- Fat: 22 g
- Saturated Fat: 9 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10 g
- Trans Fat: 1 g
- Carbohydrates: 16 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 20 g
- Cholesterol: 80 mg