Spice up your meals with a 5 minute homemade Mexican spice mix using common ingredients found in your pantry. This versatile blend can be used to add bold flavor to any dish; from tacos to salads, stews, and more!
Are you tired of bland and boring Taco Tuesdays? Spice things up with a homemade, pantry friendly Mexican spice mix that can add bold flavors to any dish in just 5 minutes! I can't tell you have often I use this combo of spices and herbs in my kitchen. Using common ingredients found in your pantry, this versatile blend is perfect for tacos, soups, stews, salads...you name it!
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Pantry Friendly Ingredients
To make the perfect Mexican spice mix, you'll need a few key ingredients that are likely already in your pantry. I shall list:
- chili powder
- smoked paprika
- ground Mexican oregano
- ground cumin
- ground coriander
- garlic powder
- onion powder
- cayenne
- coarse salt
Throw them all in a bowl, whisk together, and boom! Taco seasoning for days.
How to Store Mexican Spice Mix
To keep your Mexican spice mix fresh and flavorful, proper storage is key. Stored correctly, your spice mix can last for up to six months! The best way to store it is in an airtight container, such as a small glass jar with a secure lid. I prefer to use glass containers, as plastic containers can absorb the strong flavors and odors of the spices.
Ways To Use It in Your Cooking
- Use it as a taco seasoning! Add a sprinkle of Mexican spice mix to ground beef, turkey, or beans and rice when making tacos, burritos, nachos,etc. It's an easy way to infuse protein with some extra flavor.
- Toss it in with some potatoes or other starchy veggies before roasting them in the oven.
- Mix some into your scrambled eggs before cooking for a breakfast that packs a punch.
- Mix a teaspoon of mexican spice mix into your favorite marinade for a tasty twist on your grilled vegetables and proteins.
- Use it with enchiladas, pasta casseroles, savory bakes...so many things!
Not sure what I mean? Here's a couple recipes to get you started ⤵.
FAQs About This Recipe
Stored in an airtight container in a cool, dry place, the spice mix should last for up to six months. However, for optimal freshness, I recommend using it within three months. See my storage section for further info.
As of yet, I haven't made a spice mix based on fresh produce. I will say that you should keep in mind that dried herbs are more concentrated, so you may need to use more fresh ones to achieve the same flavor.
Absolutely! If you want a milder mix, reduce the amount of chili powder or use a mild variety. For a spicier mix, increase the chili powder or add some cayenne pepper.
Too Long; Didn't Read
In just five minutes, you can create a homemade, pantry friendly Mexican spice mix using ingredients you probably already have in your kitchen! This versatile blend adds bold and delicious flavors to almost any Mexican cuisine inspired dish. You won't ever have to settle for store-bought taco seasoning again! Speaking of tacos, Taco Tuesday is going to be SO much more delicious with this recipe in your toolbox. Store it in a glass container and enjoy within 6 months for best results. Scroll down for the recipe!
Pantry Friendly Mexican Spice Mix
- Total Time: 5 minutes
- Yield: About ½ cup 1x
Description
Spice up your meals with a 5 minute homemade Mexican spice mix using common ingredients found in your pantry. This versatile blend can be used to add bold flavor to any dish; from tacos to soups and stews, and more!
Ingredients
- ¼ cup chili powder
- 2 tablespoons smoked paprika
- 1 tablespoon ground Mexican oregano
- 1 tablespoon ground cumin
- 1 tablespoon ground coriander
- 1 tablespoon garlic powder
- 1 tablespoon onion powder
- ¾ teaspoon cayenne pepper
- 1 tablespoon coarse salt
Get Recipe Ingredients
Instructions
- In a small bowl, whisk together all ingredients.
- Store in an airtight glass container in a cool, dry place to maintain flavor (up to 6 months).
Notes
For a spicer mix, add at touch more cayenne pepper or even a dash of red pepper flakes.
For a smokier flavor, substitute the chili powder with an ancho chili powder or a chipotle powder.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Category: Seasoning
- Method: Mixing
- Cuisine: Mexican
Theresa says
Hi, Aberdeen. just stumbled onto your site and like what I see! so I subscribed. Thanks, for sharing you're Mexican spice mix recipe. I will def make it. I too like to make my own seasonings. so I can make them salt free. Having high blood pressure it's so important to cut the salt intake as much as possible! I appreciate all you do keep up the good work!