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best taco seasoning recipe
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: About 11 tablespoons (4–5 uses) 1x
- Diet: General
Description
This homemade taco seasoning blend features ancho chili powder and dried orange zest for a vibrant, smoky, and citrusy flavor profile. Easily prepared ahead of time, it elevates weeknight tacos and other dishes.
Ingredients
- 4 tablespoons ancho chili powder
- 2 tablespoons cumin powder
- 1 tablespoon dried orange zest, finely ground
- 2 teaspoons garlic powder
- 2 teaspoons onion powder
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 0.5 teaspoon fine sea salt
- 0.25 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 0.25 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
- 0.5 teaspoon fresh orange zest, finely grated (for garnish)
- 1 tablespoon cilantro, finely chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Prepare Cumin and Zest: If using whole cumin seeds, gently toast in a dry pan for 2-3 minutes, cool, then grind to a fine powder. Ensure the dried orange zest is also finely ground to a powder consistency.
- Combine Seasoning Blend: In a mixing bowl, combine the ancho chili powder, cumin powder, dried orange zest, garlic powder, onion powder, dried oregano, smoked paprika, fine sea salt, ground black pepper, and optional cayenne pepper. Whisk for 1-2 minutes until all ingredients are evenly distributed.
- Store Seasoning: Transfer the finished seasoning blend to an airtight container. Store in a cool, dark place for up to 3 months to maintain optimal freshness and flavor.
- Use with Ground Meat: Brown 1.1 lbs (500g) of ground meat in a skillet over medium-high heat, then drain any excess fat. Add 2-3 tablespoons of the prepared seasoning blend and 0.5 cup (120 mL) water to the meat.
- Simmer Mixture: Stir well to combine, bring the mixture to a simmer, and cook for 5-7 minutes until the liquid has mostly evaporated. Add 1-2 tablespoons more water if the mixture becomes too dry.
- Garnish and Serve: Serve the seasoned meat in a bowl and garnish generously with the fresh orange zest and chopped cilantro to emphasize the aromatic twist of the blend.
Notes
Store the finished seasoning blend in an airtight container for up to 3 months for peak freshness. For a milder version, omit the cayenne pepper entirely. This blend can be used for other proteins like chicken or fish, or added to soups and marinades for a quick flavor boost.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Seasoning
- Method: Mixing
- Cuisine: Tex-Mex
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving (2-3 tablespoons blend)
- Calories: 40 kcal
- Sugar: 0 g
- Sodium: 300 mg
- Fat: 0 g
- Saturated Fat: 0 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 0 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 8 g
- Fiber: 3 g
- Protein: 2 g
- Cholesterol: 0 mg
Keywords: homemade, taco seasoning, spice blend, tex-mex, meal prep, ancho chili, orange zest, ground beef, weeknight dinner, quick recipe
