Why Homemade Taco Seasoning Beats Store-Bought Every Time
Let’s face it, taco night should be bursting with bold, mouthwatering flavour, not bland or overly salty disappointment. While shop bought taco seasoning might seem convenient, it’s often a mix of fillers (think corn starch or sugar), preservatives, and low-quality spices.
Homemade taco seasoning, on the other hand, puts you in charge of the flavour and quality. No mystery ingredients. No MSG. Just real spices, blended beautifully for that perfect hit of smoky, spicy, and savoury.
Here’s why homemade wins:
- Customisable heat and flavour: Like it fiery or mild? Add extra cayenne or dial it back, you’re in control.
- No fillers or additives: Just pure spices, nothing else.
- Freshness matters: Fresh-ground spices are far more potent than those lingering in packets on supermarket shelves.
- Cost-effective: Buying spices in bulk saves money over time, and cuts waste.
Ultimate Homemade Taco Seasoning Recipe
This isn’t your average DIY taco mix. We’ve taken it up a notch with a perfectly balanced blend of top-tier spices that deliver real depth and complexity. Use it on beef, chicken, veg, or even to spice up roasted potatoes!
Ingredients (enough for 8–10 servings)
- 3 tbsp chilli powder
- 2 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 tbsp ground cumin
- 1½ tsp garlic powder
- 1½ tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp sea salt
- ¾ tsp cracked black pepper
- ½ tsp cayenne pepper
- ¼ tsp cinnamon
- Optional twist: Add 1 tsp cocoa powder for a rich, earthy undertone, a trick used in authentic mole sauces!
Method
- Measure & mix: Combine all spices in a small mixing bowl.
- Store smart: Transfer to an airtight jar or tin and keep in a cool, dry place for up to 6 months.
- Use with flair: For 500g (1 lb) of ground meat, use 2–3 tablespoons of seasoning plus 120ml water. Simmer until thickened.
Pro Tips to Take it Even Further
- Toast your spices: Gently heat in a dry pan for 1–2 minutes to intensify flavour.
- Grind your own: Using whole cumin or dried chillies? Toast and grind fresh for the most vibrant taste.
- Batch it up: Double or triple the recipe to always have a jar ready, it’s your new weeknight hero.
Delicious Ways to Use Homemade Taco Seasoning
Besides classic beef tacos, try it in:
- Chicken fajitas or quesadillas
- Roasted chickpeas or cauliflower
- Taco inspired soups or stews
- Mexican rice or burrito bowls
- Butter spread for grilled corn
DIY is Worth It
Taco seasoning should never be boring, and it certainly shouldn’t include ingredients you can’t pronounce. When you make your own, every taco, burrito or bowl becomes a bold, flavour-packed celebration. Once you’ve tried this homemade version, we promise: there’s no going back to the packet.