Make Your Own Taco Seasoning

Photo Credit

 Before college, I did not know that you could buy pre-mixed packages of taco seasoning. When I first learned this, I thought people must be crazy! Buy a little overpriced packet when you already have every needed ingredient in your kitchen? No thank you!

To contrast, my husband Niall grew up in Ireland and didn't have homemade tacos until he came to the states in his teenage years. Every time he had tacos, they were made with the store bought mix, so he didn't know that there was any other option. Until he married me :). 

My mother's taco meat is delicious, and so today I am sharing her very simple recipe with you. Niall heartily approves it, and I promise that you already have every necessary ingredient in your kitchen.

Measurements are figured for 1-1.5 lbs. of ground beef.

Chop half of an onion, mince 1 or 2 cloves of garlic, and brown with hamburger meat (if you don't have these on hand, you can add 1 tsp. onion powder and a touch of garlic powder with the other seasonings at the end). When meat is browned, drain grease.

Add 3/4 cup water to your meat. Season with 2 tablespoons chili powder, 1 tsp. salt, and 1/2 tsp. of cumin. Simmer and stir until most of the water is cooked off.

Serve with taco shells and your favorite accompaniments. Sometimes I make a triple batch, and freeze small portions in ziploc bags. Then I can thaw one for a quick meal, or a tasty snack of nachos. Have lots of leftovers? Another brilliant idea from my mom: add leftover taco meat to a prepared box of macaroni and cheese. Maybe not very healthy, but it sure is tasty :). 

Do you make your own taco seasoning? Is your recipe similar to mine? How does it vary? Please share!