Homemade Old El Paso Copycat Taco Seasoning Mix
Description
A 5-minute homemade copycat of the classic Old El Paso taco seasoning packet that is cheaper, lower in sodium, free of fillers, and completely customizable. Makes about 2 tablespoons (1 packet) to season 1 pound of meat.
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon paprika, smoked, for extra depth
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon fine sea salt
- ½ teaspoon granulated sugar
- ¼ teaspoon dried oregano
- ¼ teaspoon cornstarch, optional; thickens the pan sauce; omit for gluten-free
- ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper, optional, for heat
- ⅛ teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
- Add all ingredients to a small bowl.
- Whisk together until evenly combined and uniform in color, with no streaks.
- Use immediately, or transfer to an airtight jar and store in a cool, dark place for up to 6 months.
Equipment
- Mixing Bowl
- Whisk
Notes
To season meat: Brown and drain 1 pound of ground meat. Stir in the full batch of seasoning plus ½ cup water. Simmer 3 to 5 minutes until thickened and the sauce clings.
Notes
- This single batch equals one Old El Paso packet and seasons 1 pound of meat.
- For a big batch, multiply every ingredient by 10 and it fills a pint jar perfectly.
- Gluten-free and Whole30: omit the cornstarch and sugar.
- Store in an airtight jar away from heat and moisture, and use a dry spoon to keep it fresh.
Nutrition
Serving: 1ServingCalories: 13kcalCarbohydrates: 3gProtein: 0.5gFat: 0.4gSaturated Fat: 0.1gPolyunsaturated Fat: 0.2gMonounsaturated Fat: 0.1gSodium: 325mgPotassium: 62mgFiber: 1gSugar: 1gVitamin A: 692IUVitamin C: 2mgCalcium: 15mgIron: 1mg