Homemade Taco Seasoning
Homemade Taco Seasoning is a easy Mexican recipe that serves 6. 10 calories per serving. Recipe by Getty Stewart on YouTube.
Prep: 5 min | Cook: PT0M | Total: 10 min
Cost: $0.90 total, $0.15 per serving
Ingredients
- 2 tsp Cayenne Pepper (adjust heat to taste; use fresh ground for best flavor)
- 2 tsp Garlic Powder (provides savory depth)
- 2 tsp Dried Oregano (adds earthy aroma)
- 2 tbsp Ground Cumin (key Mexican flavor)
- 2 tbsp Chili Powder (mild heat and color)
- 1 tbsp Ground Coriander (citrusy undertone)
- 1 tsp Black Pepper (freshly ground if possible)
Instructions
Gather All Spices
Collect cayenne pepper, garlic powder, dried oregano, ground cumin, chili powder, ground coriander, and black pepper.
Time: PT1M
Measure Each Spice
Using measuring spoons, measure 2 tsp cayenne, 2 tsp garlic powder, 2 tsp oregano, 2 tbsp cumin, 2 tbsp chili powder, 1 tbsp coriander, and 1 tsp black pepper.
Time: PT2M
Combine Spices
Add all measured spices to the mixing bowl and stir with a spoon or whisk until evenly blended.
Time: PT1M
Transfer to Jar
Spoon the blended seasoning into an airtight jar, seal tightly, and give the jar a gentle shake to settle the mix.
Time: PT1M
Cleanup
Rinse the mixing bowl, spoon, and measuring spoons. Wipe the jar exterior.
Time: PT5M
Nutrition Facts
- Calories
- 10
- Protein
- 0g
- Carbohydrates
- 2g
- Fat
- 0g
- Fiber
- 0g
Dietary info: Vegan, Gluten‑Free, Dairy‑Free, Nut‑Free
Ingredient Substitutions
- Instead of Cayenne Pepper: Red pepper flakes, Paprika (milder)
- Instead of Garlic Powder: Onion powder, Fresh minced garlic (use less)
- Instead of Dried Oregano: Mexican oregano, Thyme (small amount)
- Instead of Ground Cumin: Ground coriander (less), Caraway seed (ground)
- Instead of Chili Powder: Paprika + cayenne blend, Ancho chili powder
- Instead of Ground Coriander: Coriander seeds (ground), Fresh cilantro (dry it first)
- Instead of Black Pepper: White pepper, Ground pink peppercorns
Equipment Needed
- Mixing Bowl
- Measuring Spoons
- Spoon or Small Whisk
- Airtight Jar with Lid
- Fine Mesh Sieve (optional) (optional)
Critical Steps — Do Not Skip
- Measure spices accurately to maintain flavor balance.
- Mix the spices thoroughly to avoid pockets of heat.
- Seal the jar tightly to keep the seasoning fresh.
Chef Tips from the Video
- Toast whole cumin and coriander seeds lightly before grinding for a deeper flavor.
- Store spices in a dark glass container to preserve potency.
Troubleshooting
Seasoning is too spicy.
Add extra cumin and oregano to balance heat, or mix with a neutral spice blend like plain salt.
Spice mixture forms clumps.
Sift the blend through a fine mesh sieve before storing, and ensure spices are dry.
Storage
Refrigerator: Not required; can store in fridge if you prefer extra freshness.
Freezer: Not recommended; spices can absorb freezer odors.
Room temperature: Store in a cool, dry pantry away from direct sunlight for up to 6 months.
Make-Ahead Tips
- Make a larger batch and store in an airtight jar for up to 6 months.
- Label the jar with the production date for easy rotation.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the cultural significance and history of taco seasoning in Mexican cuisine?
Taco seasoning, as we know it today, is a modern convenience blend that captures the traditional flavors of Mexican street tacos—cumin, chili, garlic, and oregano. While authentic Mexican cooking often uses fresh chilies and herbs, the powdered mix became popular in the United States in the mid‑20th century to simplify home cooking.
What are the traditional regional variations of taco seasoning in Mexican cuisine?
In northern Mexico, taco seasoning leans heavily on cumin and dried chilies, while southern regions favor fresh chilies, oregano, and sometimes smoked paprika. Coastal areas may add citrus zest or dried lime for brightness. The blend in this recipe reflects a balanced, all‑American style that works well across regions.
How is taco seasoning traditionally served with tacos in Mexico?
Traditionally, Mexican tacos are seasoned with fresh ingredients—sliced onions, cilantro, lime, and a sprinkle of dried chili powder or chipotle. The powdered taco seasoning is a shortcut used mainly in the U.S.; in Mexico, cooks often toast whole spices and grind them fresh for each batch.
What occasions or celebrations is taco seasoning traditionally associated with in Mexican culture?
Tacos are a staple at everyday meals, street festivals (ferias), and family gatherings. While there is no specific holiday for taco seasoning, the blend is commonly used for quick meals during celebrations like birthdays, Cinco de Mayo, and weekend barbecues.
What other Mexican dishes pair well with this homemade taco seasoning?
Use this seasoning for fajitas, enchilada fillings, chili con carne, Mexican‑style grilled vegetables, and even spiced popcorn. It also works nicely in taco‑style salads and burrito bowls.
What makes this taco seasoning blend special compared to store‑bought mixes?
Because you control each ingredient, you can adjust heat, avoid additives, and ensure the spices are fresh. The blend balances cayenne’s heat with aromatic oregano and coriander, giving a more nuanced flavor than many commercial mixes that rely heavily on salt and MSG.
What are the most common mistakes to avoid when making homemade taco seasoning?
Common errors include over‑measuring cayenne, which makes the blend overly hot, and not mixing the spices thoroughly, leading to uneven flavor. Also, using stale spices will result in a flat taste; always use fresh, aromatic spices.
Why does this taco seasoning recipe use both chili powder and cayenne pepper instead of just one hot spice?
Chili powder provides color, mild heat, and a blend of dried chilies plus other spices, while cayenne adds a sharp, focused heat. Using both creates depth—chili powder gives the base flavor and cayenne lets you dial in the heat level.
Can I make this taco seasoning ahead of time and how should I store it?
Yes, the seasoning keeps well for up to six months when stored in an airtight jar in a cool, dark pantry. Label the jar with the date, and avoid exposing it to moisture or direct sunlight.
What does the YouTube channel Getty Stewart specialize in?
The YouTube channel Getty Stewart focuses on quick, practical home‑cooking tutorials, often highlighting simple seasoning blends, pantry staples, and easy‑to‑follow recipes for everyday meals.
How does the YouTube channel Getty Stewart's approach to Mexican cooking differ from other cooking channels?
Getty Stewart emphasizes minimal equipment, clear step‑by‑step visuals, and budget‑friendly ingredients, making Mexican flavors accessible to beginners. Unlike some channels that use elaborate techniques, Getty keeps the process straightforward and adaptable.
Last updated: August 28, 2026
