Make This Smoky Taco Seasoning and DITCH the Packet
You’ll love this homemade taco seasoning because it is a healthy substitute for store-bought taco seasoning packets. It is easy to make with a simple blend of herbs and spices (and the secret ingredient of smoky paprika!), and no added sugar or MSG.
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Why Make Homemade Taco Seasoning?
It’s so easy to grab the packet. You’re grocery shopping in a rush – you grab some meat, tortillas and taco seasoning and dinner is solved – right?
But have you ever actually looked at the ingredients in one of those taco seasoning packets? You might assume that it was simply a blend of herbs and spices but sadly you would be wrong.
Ingredients in Store-Bought Taco Seasoning
Let’s take a look at the ingredient lists for a couple of popular taco seasoning packets: Everything you see in red is not an herb or a spice. There are a lot of thickening agents (not sure why this is necessary), sugar (why do they always add sugar?!!), flavor enhancers like MSG or autolyzed yeast which is a substitute for MSG (so unnecessary), anticaking agents, artificial color (aren’t spices colorful already?) and natural flavoring (because spices alone aren’t enough?).
Hmmmmm…..maybe you don’t want that packet after all.
How to Make Homemade Taco Seasoning
Homemade taco seasoning is so easy to make – there’s really no reason not to!
The key ingredient in my Smoky Taco Seasoning is smoked paprika. You can use regular paprika if you prefer but personally, I love the smoky flavor!
Mix All The Spices Together
Measure out the spices (get full recipe here) and add everything to a small bowl.
- chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, oregano, cayenne pepper, salt
Mix until well blended.
Store in an Airtight Jar
Store your taco seasoning in a sealed glass jar to keep it fresh. (these Weck tulip jars are my favorite!)
Season Meat Per Directions
Use about 3 tablespoons seasoning and 1/2 cup water per 1 pound of meat (about the same amount that is in a store-bought packet).
Enjoy Your Tacos!
Once you try this smoky taco seasoning, you’ll never go back to the packet!
Get the complete recipe for Smoky Taco Seasoning on the Mindful Momma blog!
