Taco Seasoning Mix

Well, I don't know about you, but I find that packaged taco seasoning is simply awful. It's way too salty, and not spicy enough. It is so simple to throw together a few spices to make your own, and this recipe blows away the prepackaged stuff. You can control the salt and spice amount as well. Also I have found that you can get away with 99% lean ground turkey with this recipe. Top with your favorite taco toppings and everyone will be impressed. Or you may choose to make a Taco Salad with it. How cool is that? 

Taco Seasoning Mix

• 1 Tbsp. chili powder
• 1 tsp. onion powder
• 1 tsp. paprika
• 1 tsp. garlic powder
• ½-1 tsp. ground chipotle powder
• ½ tsp. cumin
• ½ tsp. salt
• ¼ cup ketchup
• ¾ cup water
• 1.3 lb. ground turkey or ground beef

In a small bowl mix together first 7 ingredients. In a 2 cup measuring cup put ketchup, water and spice powders. Whisk together and set aside.

Brown ground beef or ground turkey in skillet. When meat is no longer pink and is cooked through, drain off fat. Place back onto stovetop. Add spice mixture to meat, stirring well until all meat is coated. Bring to a boil, then lower heat to a simmer and cook uncovered for 5 minutes. Serve with soft or hard taco shells of your choice.

I find that the store-bought seasoning packs are not seasoned enough and they are too salty. This tastes better and is much cheaper, too. I always use 1 tsp. of chipotle powder, we like it on the spicy side.