Taco Seasoning

There are lots of gluten free taco seasoning blends in the store, so I never really thought about making my own.  That is, until one day when we ran out.  And I had a huge craving for tacos. 

So I did an on-line search and found a basic taco seasoning recipe.  I made it several times, tweaking it slightly each time, until I was happy. Now, I make it in bulk and store it in a mason jar in the cupboard and use it in lots of different recipes.

Taco Seasoning = 1 package

• 1 tablespoon chili powder
• 2 teaspoons cumin
• 1 1/2 teaspoons cornstarch
• 3/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika
• 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/4 teaspoon oregano
• a pinch to 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper or crushed red pepper flakes (Depending on how hot you want it.)

Combine all the ingredients with 1/3 cup water and 1 pound of cooked and drained ground meat. Simmer for 3-5 minutes or until the sauce thickens.
 

Taco Seasoning in bulk (=4 packages)

• 4 tablespoon chili powder
• 3 tablespoons plus 2 teaspoons cumin 
• 2 tablespoons cornstarch
• 1 tablespoon salt
  
• 2 teaspoons paprika
  
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon oregano
• 1/4 teaspoon - 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper or crushed red pepper flakes (Depending on how hot you want it.)

Combine all ingredients and store in an airtight container.

• Mix 3 tablespoons taco seasoning and 1/3 cup water with 1 pound of cooked and drained ground meat.  Simmer for 3-5 minutes, until sauce thickens.

• TVP tacos: Combine 2 cups of water, 1 3/4 cup TVP and 3 tablespoons taco seasoning.   Cover and microwave 5-6 minutes, stirring half way through.  Add more water if necessary.