As regular readers of this blog already know, I like to avoid pre-mixed spices and spice kits for marinades, sauces, and so on. I was just mixing up a batch of taco seasonings for tonight’s dinner when it occurred to me to share my recipe (which is really pretty flexible depending on your taste).

Shop here for high-quality spices and some cute containers to use in your seasoning blend. Remember, this makes a lovely gift or party favor (have a taco party!) so purchasing larger quantities of each spice and blending a big batch at once is a fun and functional idea.

• 1/4 cup Green/Chipotle/Regular Chili Powder (choose one or blend)
• 2 teaspoons Garlic Powder
• 2 teaspoons Onion Powder
• 1 teaspoon Cayenne Pepper
• 1 teaspoon Dried Oregano
• 3 teaspoons Smoked Paprika (any paprika will do if you don’t have smoked)
• 3 tablespoons Ground Cumin
• 1 tablespoon Sea Salt
• 1 tablespoon Black Pepper

If you like hotter, smokier or milder seasoned taco meat/beans, adjust the recipe to taste.

Mix all ingredients in a container with a lid or a Ziploc bag. Use two tablespoons mix per pound of meat or beans (batch). Store remaining mix, labeled for future use.