Tacos are a crowd-pleaser, beloved for their versatility and vibrant flavors. But what truly sets a taco apart is the seasoning that gives it its signature kick. Store-bought seasoning can do the trick, but if you're looking to control your ingredients and adjust the heat to your preference, making your own taco seasoning is the way to go. Here's a homemade taco seasoning recipe that promises to deliver just the right amount of heat to tantalize your taste buds.
Homemade Taco Seasoning Recipe (Medium Heat)
Ingredients:
1 1/2 tablespoons corn flour
3 teaspoons chili powder
1 1/2 teaspoons The Spice Hunter Chili Powder Blend
1 1/2 teaspoons dried onion
1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon paprika
1 teaspoon cumin
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1/4 teaspoon sugar
1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (see note below)
Instructions:
- In a bowl, mix all the dry ingredients together until well combined.
- Brown 1 to 1½ pounds of ground meat (turkey is a great option) in a skillet.
- Sprinkle the homemade seasoning mix over the meat, stirring until fully incorporated.
- Add a cup of water to the skillet and continue to cook over medium heat until the sauce reduces and thickens to your liking.
- Serve the seasoned meat in your favorite gluten-free (GF) taco shells with an array of toppings like shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, and shredded cheese.
Customizing Your Taco Seasoning
The beauty of this recipe is its adaptability. The listed ingredients will give you a medium level of spiciness, perfect for those who enjoy a bit of heat without it being overwhelming. However, if you're sensitive to spice or simply prefer a milder flavor, feel free to leave out the cayenne pepper.
For those who have a penchant for a unique depth of flavor, The Spice Hunter Chili Powder Blend is a recommended choice, not only for its taste but also for being gluten-free. If this particular blend is not available, don't fret. You can substitute it with a mixture of ¼ teaspoon each of cocoa powder, cinnamon, and a pinch (1/8 teaspoon) of ground cloves to achieve a similar profile.
And for the heat enthusiasts who want an extra kick, the cayenne pepper in this recipe can be adjusted. Start with a pinch and keep adding until you hit your desired level of spiciness. If cayenne isn't your thing, black pepper can be a suitable substitute.
Why Make Your Own Seasoning?
Making your own taco seasoning at home has several benefits:
- Control Over Ingredients: You know exactly what's going into your seasoning—no hidden additives or preservatives.
- Customization: Adjust the spice levels and ingredients to suit your dietary needs and flavor preferences.
- Economy: Homemade seasoning can be more cost-effective than store-bought packets, especially if you buy spices in bulk.
- Freshness: The flavor of homemade seasoning is often more vibrant than that of pre-packaged varieties.
Serving Suggestions
This versatile seasoning isn't just for tacos. Feel free to sprinkle it on grilled vegetables, stir it into soups and stews, or use it as a rub for chicken or beef before roasting. The possibilities are endless!
Conclusion
Whether it's Taco Tuesday or a weekend fiesta, this homemade taco seasoning will bring warmth and complexity to your dishes. It's a simple way to elevate your cooking and impress your guests with bold, personalized flavors. So next time you're in the mood for something spicy, give this recipe a try—it might just become a staple in your spice cabinet.
