Save Money by Not Buying Seasoning Packets

Difficulty:
Very Easy
Cost:
$1-$50
Average rating:
A packet of taco seasoning purchased at the store often costs more than a dollar, which is a big chunk of the cost of a meal if you are trying to be thrifty. If you like the flavor of Mexican or Tex-Mex food, consider making your own taco seasoning mix rather than purchasing a mix packet. Not only will you save money by making your own seasoning mix, but you can also adjust the mixture to suit the tastes and needs of your family. If your family likes their food with mild heat, you can cut back on the chili and cayenne. If your family likes their food hot, you can increase the amount of cayenne. If someone in your household is on a low-sodium or sugar free diet, you can adjust the mixture to meet their needs.
Step 1:

Ingredients

  • 6 tbsp chili powder
  • 5 tbsp adobo seasoning
  • 1 tbsp chipotle powder
  • 2 1/2 tbsp onion powder
  • 1 tbsp garlic powder
  • 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1 tbsp sugar
Step 2:

Instructions

  • Combine all ingredients in a jar with a tight fitting lid. Mix by shaking well. Store in a cool dry place for up to six months. Use to season Mexican or Tex-Mex dishes.
  • Use 2-3 tbsp of mixture to approximate the amount and flavor of a purchased seasoning mix packet.
Step 3:

Tips, Ideas, and Suggestions

  • It is important to remember that not all chili powder is the same. The chili powder you use will change the 'heat' of your taco seasoning mix.
  • For a good burrito filling, fry a pound of ground beef, stir in 2-3 tbsp of taco seasoning, a can of refried beans, and a can of diced tomatoes. Combine all the ingredients and let simmer for several minutes.
  • Kosher salt tastes particularly good when used in seasoning mixes such as this one.
  • Adobo seasoning is a spice mixture common in Latino countries. It is often used as a rub for meat or for taco seasoning.
  • Chipotle is a smoked jalapeno chili pepper. The smoked flavor lends a distinctive quality and depth to the food to which it is added.
  • You will save the most money by making this mixture if you buy your spices in bulk. If you buy spices in a greater volume than you can use in six months, consider storing the bulk of your spices in the freezer to preserve freshness. Keep small containers of spices in your cupboards for easy access.
Useful Links:
Penzey's Spices

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