Elevate Taco Night: The Ultimate Homemade Old El Paso Seasoning

The smell of sizzling ground beef seasoned just right, a warm corn tortilla in my hand, the joyful chatter of family gathered around the table – taco night was, and still is, a sacred ritual in my home. For years, a certain bright orange packet from Old El Paso held a place of honor in my pantry, the shortcut to that familiar, comforting flavor. But as I’ve honed my skills in the kitchen, I’ve come to believe that even beloved staples can be elevated with a touch of homemade magic. So, I embarked on a mission to recreate that classic taco seasoning blend, and I can confidently say, this homemade version is even better!

Recipe Overview: Homemade Old El Paso Seasoning

• Prep Time: 5 minutes
• Cook Time: 0 minutes
• Total Time: 5 minutes
• Yields: Approximately 1/4 cup
• Dietary Type: Vegan, Gluten-Free

Ingredients

• 1 tablespoon cornmeal
• 2 teaspoons coconut sugar crystals
• 1 teaspoon sweet paprika
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• 1 teaspoon cocoa powder
• ½ teaspoon dried oregano
• ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper (or to taste)
• ½ teaspoon sea salt (or to taste)
• ½ teaspoon black pepper (or to taste)

Equipment Needed

• Small mixing bowl
• Measuring spoons
• Airtight container for storage

Instructions

1. In a small bowl, carefully measure and combine all the ingredients: cornmeal, coconut sugar crystals, sweet paprika, onion powder, garlic powder, ground cumin, chili powder, cocoa powder, dried oregano, cayenne pepper, sea salt, and black pepper.

2. Use a spoon or whisk to thoroughly mix all the ingredients together until they are evenly distributed. Ensure there are no clumps of any single ingredient.

3. Transfer the seasoning blend to an airtight container.

4. Store the homemade Old El Paso seasoning in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight.

This recipe makes approximately 1/4 cup of taco seasoning.

Expert Tips & Tricks

• Spice Level Adjustment: The ½ teaspoon of cayenne pepper provides a mild kick. If you prefer a spicier seasoning, gradually increase the amount of cayenne pepper to your desired heat level. Always taste as you go!
• Sweetness Control: The recipe calls for coconut sugar crystals, which add a touch of sweetness that complements the other spices. If you don’t have coconut sugar, you can substitute it with an equal amount of brown sugar or even regular granulated sugar. However, coconut sugar has a slightly more complex flavor profile.
• Freshness is Key: For the best flavor, use fresh, high-quality spices. Older spices tend to lose their potency. Check the expiration dates on your spices before using them.
• Blooming the Spices (Optional): For a more intense flavor, you can “bloom” the spices before adding them to the ground meat. To do this, heat a tablespoon of oil in a pan over medium heat. Add the spice blend and cook for about 1 minute, stirring constantly, until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the spices. Let cool slightly before adding to your meat.
• Salt and Pepper – The Final Frontier: Remember that the recipe calls for ½ teaspoon each of salt and pepper. Feel free to adjust the amount to your liking, but be sure to taste the seasoned meat before adding any additional salt.

Serving & Storage Suggestions

This homemade taco seasoning is incredibly versatile. Of course, it’s perfect for seasoning ground beef, chicken, or turkey for tacos. But don’t stop there!

• Beyond Tacos: Use it to season black beans for burritos, sprinkle it over roasted vegetables like sweet potatoes or cauliflower, or add a pinch to your scrambled eggs for a Southwestern-inspired breakfast.
• Storage: When stored properly in an airtight container in a cool, dry place, this seasoning blend will keep for up to 4 months. The quality of your spices will gradually diminish over time, so it’s best to use it within this timeframe for the most vibrant flavor. There’s no need to refrigerate or freeze the seasoning.
• Serving: To use, simply sprinkle 2-3 tablespoons of the seasoning per pound of ground meat (or other protein) while cooking. Add a little water (about 1/4 cup) to help the seasoning evenly coat the meat and simmer until the liquid has evaporated.
• Make it a Taco Bar! Offer a variety of toppings alongside your seasoned meat, such as shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, sour cream, guacamole, salsa, shredded cheese, and pickled onions.

Nutritional Information

(Note: Nutritional information is an estimate and can vary based on specific ingredient brands and serving sizes.)

Nutrient	Amount per Serving (approx. 1 tsp)	% Daily Value
Calories	8 kcal	0%
Total Fat	0.3g	0%
Saturated Fat	0.1g	0%
Cholesterol	0mg	0%
Sodium	43mg	2%
Total Carbohydrate	1.3g	0%
Dietary Fiber	0.3g	1%
Sugars	0.4g	0%
Protein	0.1g	0%

Variations & Substitutions

• Spicier Version: As mentioned above, increase the amount of cayenne pepper. You could also add a pinch of smoked paprika or chili flakes for extra heat and depth.
• Smoked Flavor: Add ½ teaspoon of smoked paprika to the blend for a smoky, barbecue-like flavor.
• Herbaceous Blend: For a more herbaceous seasoning, increase the amount of dried oregano to 1 teaspoon and add ½ teaspoon of dried marjoram or Mexican oregano.
• Lower Sodium: Reduce the amount of sea salt or use a salt substitute. Keep in mind that salt contributes to the overall flavor, so you may need to adjust other spices to compensate.
• No Coconut Sugar? You can use brown sugar or even regular white sugar as a substitute. Maple sugar would also impart a lovely depth.

FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)

Q: Can I use this seasoning in a slow cooker?
A: Absolutely! Add the seasoning to your protein of choice along with a can of diced tomatoes and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours.

Q: How much seasoning should I use per pound of meat?
A: A good starting point is 2-3 tablespoons of seasoning per pound of ground meat. Adjust to your taste preferences.

Q: Can I make a larger batch of this seasoning?
A: Yes, simply double, triple, or quadruple the recipe to make a larger batch. Store the excess seasoning in an airtight container.

Q: What is coconut sugar, and why is it used in this recipe?
A: Coconut sugar is a natural sweetener derived from the sap of coconut palm trees. It has a slightly caramel-like flavor and adds a subtle sweetness to the seasoning blend.

Q: My seasoning blend is clumping. What should I do?
A: This can happen if the seasoning is exposed to moisture. To prevent clumping, ensure your spices are completely dry before mixing them together and store the seasoning in a tightly sealed container. If clumping occurs, simply break up the clumps with a fork or spoon before using.

Final Thoughts

Ditch the store-bought packet and embrace the vibrant flavors of this homemade Old El Paso seasoning. It’s quick, easy, and allows you to customize the spice level to your liking. Gather your loved ones, set out your favorite toppings, and prepare for a taco night that’s bursting with flavor. I encourage you to experiment with the variations, discover your perfect blend, and share your culinary creations with the world. Happy cooking!