Old El Paso Taco Seasoning Recipe
Yes, I could just buy it, but there is something extremely gratifying about making my own copycat blend of Old El Paso taco seasoning. I use cumin, garlic, smoked paprika, and a range of other spices to create a balanced and authentic blend that comes together in just 3 minutes and enhances many of my homemade Mexican dishes.
Servings: 8 tablespoons
Calories: 22kcal
Ingredients
- 3 tbsp smoked paprika
- 2 tbsp ground cumin
- 1 tbsp onion powder
- 2 tsp dried oregano
- 3 tsp garlic powder
- 2 tsp salt
- 1 tsp ground chili powder
- 1 tsp black pepper
Instructions
- Add all ingredients to a small mixing bowl.
- Mix together well.
- Transfer to a glass jar, seal with a lid, shake to combine and store in a cool dry place for up to 3 months.
Notes
- My #1 Secret Tip for this Old El Paso taco seasoning recipe is to use fresh spices. I do not make this blend with spices that have expired or have been stored improperly. The freshness of the spices is important to the flavor.
- Warm briefly: When using the spices in a dish, I like to heat the spices with a bit of oil, either on its own or with the aromatics. This gives the spices a chance to bloom and release their oils.
- Keep it airtight: If possible, I keep my spices in an airtight glass jar to maintain freshness for longer.
- Shake before use: Since there are no preservatives in this blend, some natural clumping may occur over time. I give the spice jar a quick shake before using it to loosen it up.
- Small batches: Even though I use it frequently, I always make smaller batches, rather than making a bulk blend. This keeps the flavors vibrant.
Nutrition
Serving: 1tablespoon | Calories: 22kcal | Carbohydrates: 4g | Protein: 1g | Fat: 1g | Saturated Fat: 0.1g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 0.3g | Monounsaturated Fat: 0.3g | Sodium: 591mg | Potassium: 123mg | Fiber: 2g | Sugar: 0.4g