5 Things That are Cheaper and Healthier to Make Yourself- #1

So while thinking of things to write on here lately, I've thought a lot about things we've been making ourselves here at home that have been huge successes, and that's when I came up with this series.

The first one I've grown quite fond of is Taco Seasoning. For dinner today, we had taco salads and I whipped up a new batch of taco seasoning. I think I like it more then those little packets, and well it's just healthier for you. Most commercial taco seasoning contains MSG and a ton of salt, which just isn't good for anyone. MSG can cause allergic reactions in a lot of people, and for a lot of people it causes headaches. The other great thing about making your own taco seasoning is you can add as much or as little as you like to adjust the spiciness of the food. I like to make a large batch of this and store it in an old spice jar.

Most of the spices listed are common spices that most people have in their pantry. A large jar of any of these spices is usually only $1-$3, and you could make several batches of taco seasoning with it. I don't have exact numbers, but each batch would cost about $1, and each batch makes about 15-20 servings (obviously using more means less servings). That means each serving is about 5¢. Price of a packet of seasoning is usually 50¢ (for store brand) to $1. Occasionally we can get a packet free with the purchase of something else, or get the name brand for store brand price, but it's still 50¢.

My absolute favorite part of the homemade version is the flexibility of it. You can vary the amounts of spices, change the spices a little, and change the amount you use in the dish. For example, I've substituted regular salt and seasoned salt for the sea salt before. I've also used dried onion instead of onion powder. If you are watching your salt intake, you can use less salt or use a salt substitute.

Here is the recipe:

Taco Seasoning
2 TBSP Chili Powder
1/2 tsp Garlic Powder
1/2 tsp Onion Powder
1/2 tsp Crushed Red Pepper Flakes
1/2 tsp Dried Oregano
1 tsp Paprika
1 TBSP Ground Cumin
2 tsp Sea Salt
2 tsp Black Pepper

1. Mix all ingredients together in a small bowl. Store in an airtight container.
2. To Use: Drain off grease from pan. Add 1/4 cup water and 1 TBSP seasoning per pound of meat, more or less to taste.

Enjoy!