Taco Seasoning

This recipe is equivalent to one packet of store-bought taco seasoning and can easily be doubled.

MAKES 2½ TABLESPOONS • TOTAL TIME: 5 MINUTES

INGREDIENTS:

1 tablespoon ancho chili powder

1½ teaspoons ground cumin

1 teaspoon kosher salt

½ teaspoon coarsely ground black pepper

½ teaspoon paprika

¼ teaspoon dried oregano, ground in your palm

¼ teaspoon garlic powder

¼ teaspoon onion powder

⅛ teaspoon red pepper flakes, or more to taste

DIRECTIONS:

• Combine all the ingredients in an airtight container and store in a dry, dark place for up to 6 months.

SIMPLY SCRATCH TIP

To make a sauce version for tacos or nachos, cook 1 pound ground beef. Drain off all but 2 tablespoons of the rendered fat from the pan. Sprinkle with the Taco Seasoning and 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour. Stir until the fat in the pan is absorbed and cook for 1 minute. Pour in ¼ cup water and stir until thickened. Use immediately.