Let me tell you a bit about the corn tortilla situation here in Switzerland. The corn tortillas in the regular grocery store are not bad, they just aren’t what I would call a corn tortilla. Authentic ones are sold in the one and only Mexican grocery store, but they cost about $1 for each tortilla, when in the US you can get a package of 25 for $3. Surprisingly enough, it’s not even the price that deters me. It’s the fact that it takes twenty minutes to get to the Mexican grocery store, and that involves a lot more effort than walking across the street to my regular store (or having them conveniently located in my fridge).
All if this brings me to the fact that we currently have an absurd amount of tortillas. This is a far cry from what we had a few months ago, when we were rationing them and wouldn’t even share with guests (we’re greedy like that when it comes to Mexican food). But, we requested that our US guests bring us tortillas upon arrival and each guest went above and beyond the call of duty. Now we are ready to spread the wealth! Tacos for everyone that wants to eat at the Ball residence.
And in order to make tacos, we are going to need some taco seasoning. I will give Switzerland some credit: they do indeed sell taco seasoning packets. But, just like all taco seasoning packets, they come with a bunch of unnecessary ingredients. All the seasoning really needs is a mixture of spices that you most likely already have on hand (and can pronounce the names of!).
Chili powder is the main star. Next up is paprika. Garlic powder, onion powder, and oregano tie for third. The two peppers are in last and you can’t forget salt! Remember to add extra salt if the spices aren’t shining through.
Store them in a tightly sealed jar. Use as needed, which will probably be often.
- 4 tablespoons chili powder
- 3 tablespoons paprika
- 1 teaspoon oregano
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper
- ¼ teaspoon chili flakes
- Add all ingredients to a bowl and mix together. Store in an airtight container for up to a year.
- Use to season meat and add flavor to soup.
- For beef tacos, add about 2-3 tablespoons seasoning to one pound of cooked beef, 1/4 cup of water, and some salt to taste. Simmer until the sauce has slightly thickened.
- For chicken tacos, add about 2-3 tablespoons seasoning to one pound of cooked shredded chicken, 1/4 cup of water, 1 tablespoon tomato paste, and some salt to taste. Simmer until the sauce has slightly thickened.
4 Responses
This is great, and oh so essential for those of us missing Mexican food in Switzerland. I’ll have to try it out for my next taco night.
yes, i started making my own shortly after arriving and it’s so easy to refill!
I never realized how much I take access to good tortillas for granted! Once I bought that HUGE pack of like 100 tortillas at Costco for $5. I had way more tortillas than I knew what to do with. One of the best problems ever : )
I love this homemade taco seasoning! I am going to start making my own. I’ve been using those packets, but you’re right, they’re packed with chemicals. This is probably much tastier.
I had no idea either until they were taken away from me! Yes, definitely make your own- whole30 approved!