on Mar 30, 2021, Updated Aug 15, 2023
About Old El Paso Taco Seasoning
Taco Seasoning is a popular Mexican spice mix prepared with onion powder, garlic powder, chili powder, dried oregano, paprika, ground cumin, salt, and ground black pepper. When I started to use this seasoning, Old El Paso was the brand I always went for. Their seasoning has bold flavor and perks up anything you add it to. But then, like many other things, I decided to make the spice mix at home. Why, you may ask? Firstly, this brand was not available in the part of the world I moved to. This was the initial motivation to try the recipe at home. But when I figured out a copycat recipe, there were other revelations. Making Old El Paso Copycat Taco Seasoning at home is easy and quick. All you have to do is dump all the ingredients in a bowl or a mason jar and mix them. This spice powder is very versatile and can be used in multiple recipes. It will instantly enhance the taste of your tacos, nachos, fries, and wedges. This recipe is vegan, paleo, whole30, dairy-free, keto, and gluten-free, and you can half, double, or triple the recipe according to your requirements. If you are on a Mexican cooking spree, try some of my other favorite recipes too.
Classic Horchata Salsa Chicken Strawberry Horchata Cilantro Lemon Rice Loaded Nachos Tres Leches Pancakes Mango Pico De Gallo
Ingredients
It uses very few ingredients, all readily available in a grocery store, or you can order them online. You will need onion powder, garlic powder, chili powder, dried oregano, smoked paprika, ground cumin, salt, and ground black pepper. I have used American chili powder, which is mild in taste and bright red. You can use cayenne pepper powder or paprika. If you are using other chili powders that are hot, you can decrease the amount. Adjust the quantity of salt and chili powder according to your taste preference. I have used smoked paprika, but you can use sweet paprika, too.
How To Make Taco Seasoning
Add
1 tablespoon onion powder 2 tablespoon garlic powder 6 tablespoon chili powder 1 tablespoon dried oregano 1 tablespoon smoked paprika 2 tablespoon ground cumin 4 teaspoon salt 4 teaspoon ground black pepper
in a medium size mixing bowl. Mix well using a spoon or a wire whisk. Store the seasoning in a clean, airtight container in a cool, dry place for up to 6 months or refrigerate for up to a year. Use as desired.
Usage Ideas
This flavourful seasoning can be used to make
Tacos, burritos and fajitas Nachos, crackers, and chips Soups Casserole As a rub for grilled chicken, beef, fish, shrimp, and vegetables Mexican Rice and Beans Savory tarts Popcorn Vinaigrettes
2 tbsp of this homemade taco seasoning equals one packet of store-bought seasoning. Use 2 tbsp for marinating 1 pound of meat. Add some water or oil to make a paste if you use it to marinate meat or veggies.
Storage Suggestions
If stored properly in an air-tight container in a cool and dry place, this DIY taco seasoning will last about 6 months at room temperature. You can store it in a mason jar or zip lock. If you want to increase its shelf life, then refrigerate it. It will last for more than a year in a refrigerator. Always use a clean and dry spoon while removing the seasoning from the container, and put it on the lid after every use.