Kittencal's Taco Seasoning Mix

"After experimenting with many different spice combinations over the years for me this is the closest to the store-bought package taco seasoning --- I always increase this recipe 10x and keep in a glass jar tightly covered in my fridge to have ready for recipes, if you like lots of heat then adjust the cayenne pepper to taste or you may omit completely, if you can find some dried granulated tomato powder then add about 1-2 teaspoons with the mix, I purchase mine at a bulk spice store it really gives the seasoning a lift, the amounts stated are equivalent to one package taco seasoning mix -- don't save this mix to use only for tacos, add some in your recipes to kick up the flavor, it's even great in chili, ground beef mixture for casseroles, stew, soups, and add some into you hamburger mixture for burgers, I even add this to my Parmesan meatballs --- this also makes a great gift for the cook on your list just increase amounts and present in a fancy glass jar."
 
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photo by HokiesMom photo by HokiesMom
photo by HokiesMom
photo by mommyluvs2cook photo by mommyluvs2cook
photo by mMadness97 photo by mMadness97
photo by Chef Tweaker photo by Chef Tweaker
photo by Chef Tweaker photo by Chef Tweaker
Ready In:
5mins
Ingredients:
9
Yields:
1 equivalent pkg.
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ingredients

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directions

  • Combine all ingredients (double or triple if desired) .
  • Store tighty sealed in a small glass jar until ready to use (I store mine and all spices in the refrigerator).
  • **NOTE** this is only optional, if using the mix for tacos you might want to add in some flour into the seasoned cooked ground beef to thicken, I also add in about 1-1/2 cups tomato sauce and simmer, stirring for 20 minutes over low heat.

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Reviews

  1. I'll be using this instead of buying the packets of taco seasoning from now on. Mixed, it makes 1.5 ounces which is the weight of a packet of seasoning. However, I expect that most of what comes in the store-bought packets contains mostly fillers and little spice. I used about 1 TBSP. of this seasoning for 1 pound of ground beef, and I found it perfect in that ratio. Another great recipe - thanks Kittencal!
     
  2. I tried this recipe last night and it is a definite keeper, like everything from Kittencal. I added a pinch of red pepper flakes for kick and 1 teaspoon of cornstarch to help the seasoning stick to the meat. It was perfect. One good tip: to make the flavor more robust (so you can use less seasoning) add the seasoning to the meat when it is about halfway browned. Cook until the meat is fully browned, stirring frequently. Drain off any excess grease and then add one cup of water and cook until the water has evaporated. By using this method, you allow the heat to liven up the spices before diluting them with the water.
     
  3. I have been using this and forgot to review! So good! Much better than packaged taco seasoning!
     
  4. The Best! No MSG! Easy to keep handy and ready to use. Taste is better than any package product. Cheaper to make it too. I keep it on hand and just used it for a "Family DO" in a Green Chile Chicken Hot Dip for 12 as an app with Tortia Chips. Nothing was left. The secret that made it great was your taco seasoning, Thank you, Thank you.
     
  5. I made this to use in Recipe #150046, a double batch. I used the larger amounts of garlic powder and cumin, and no cayenne. It certainly looked like the packaged stuff, and I always have all of these ingredients on hand. It might not necessarily be less expensive, but it is certainly healthier (lacking all of the unpronounceable chemicals). I will certainly use this often. (November 10, 2011) Edit: After using this in the recipe, I think 3 tsp. of cumin per batch is too much. It was harsh, or bitter, or some word that escapes me at the moment. Next time I will only use 2 tsp. And I will also try to curb my addiction to the word "certainly." LOL
     
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Tweaks

  1. I have used this twice now in taco soup and it is great. I made the soup for a friend and she told me it was better than hers and that I must do something different. I told her I made my own seasoning mix and didn't use a packet. I also made tacos with this, too, and they were delicious but a little too salty. Next time I plan to cut the seasoning salt down to 1/2 tsp. I have now started using smoked paprika in this mix and it adds a delicious flavor. I also add a pinch of ground chipotle pepper instead of cayenne pepper.
     
  2. Used Mexican chili powder.
     
  3. Very good! I knew there had to be a recipe out there for taco seasoning that was tasty. I used the Pace brand packets for years and, for whatever reason, I haven't been able to find them anywhere in my county for months. I have been unable to find another brand that tasted good and, and since tacos have been a favorite meal at our house for years, I was very disappointed! I am so glad you posted this recipe. I only use 1 tablespoon chili powder - I get mine from the health food store and it's quite potent (especially for my children). I use an 8 ounce can of tomato sauce with a half a can of water to make it saucier, and I use 1/2 tsp. sea salt instead of the seasoned salt. This recipe with 1 pound ground turkey meat makes great tacos!
     
  4. This worked out great! I subbed 1/2 teaspoon of salt substitute for the seasoned salt since I was making it for a meal that included someone on a restricted diet, and it tasted great! Thanks for another winner, Kittencal!
     
  5. Very easy and very good! Better than the stuff in the package! I used smoked paprika instead of regular paprika and it added a beautiful flavor to this! Thanks again for another winner!
     

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