Homemade Taco Seasoning

This is one of those ingredients you might never have considered making but think about it: homemade taco seasoning is cheaper than store bought, doesn't contain any preservatives or unnecessary ingredients, and you can alter the quantities of each spice to fit your family's taste buds. Plus, you can make a big batch and keep it in the pantry or attach a cute label and ribbon and give it as a little gift.

Here is my recipe. The internet is full of them as well. Make a batch then adjust the salt, heat level, onion taste....I like a lot of cumin; its actually my favorite spice.

 (makes 4 servings)

3 tablespoons chili powder
1 1/2 tablespoons paprika
2 tablespoons cumin, we love cumin- feel free to adjust to your taste
2 teaspoons oregano, preferably Mexican oregano
1 tablespoon garlic powder
1 1/2 tablespoons minced dried onion
1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper, omit if you like it mild and increase if you like it spicier
1 teaspoon salt

Store the mix in an airtight container, like a 1/2 pint mason jar and give it a shake before you use it. To use brown meat and drain fat. Add 2 Tablespoons of mix per pound of meat. Add 2/3 cup water and bring to a simmer.

Here is a link to another homemade kitchen staple-vanilla extract- from my blog if you're interested: homemade vanilla.  Also makes a great Christmas gift if you have someone who loves to bake on your list.

Do you have any tried and true kitchen staple recipes? We would love to hear them. Please share the homemade goodness!