Taco Sauce

Master the vibrant flavors of homemade taco sauce; can you believe how easy it is to customize to your taste?

spicy mexican food condiment

Ditch the store-bought packets and unleash a flavor explosion with homemade taco sauce!

It's surprisingly easy to craft a vibrant blend that surpasses the mystery ingredients of the supermarket versions.

Get ready to tantalize your taste buds and discover the simple secret to taco perfection.

What Is Taco Sauce?

spicy sauce for tacos

Well, taco sauce—more like taco seasoning—is your secret weapon for turning ordinary ground meat into a fiesta in your mouth! Forget the flavorless, store-bought stuff loaded with preservatives; we're talkin' homemade magic.

I'm betting you did not know it's so easy to do, too. Why spend extra cash on something you can whip up in five minutes? Plus, since I concoct the spice mix myself, I know it's gotta be good. The base generally includes ingredients like chili powder for a classic taco flavor.

Are you ready to combine the listed dry spices? This recipe makes enough for one pound of ground meat, but you know I sometimes double or triple it because I don't want to run out—ever! I also love to use my taco-tastic spice mix for quesadillas, too.

Ingredients

ingredient with preparation details

Okay, let's explore into what makes this taco seasoning so amazing—the ingredients! I'm telling you, it's all about fresh spices! We're talking the good stuff, friends. We need a balanced mix of flavors to make your tacos dance a jig!

Here's what I put in mine!

  1. One tsp each of: garlic powder, onion powder, and dried oregano.
  2. Two tsp each of: cumin powder and paprika!
  3. Next, chili powder (start with 1/4 tsp and adjust as your heart desires), 1 tsp of salt, and 1/4 tsp of black pepper.

Isn't that wonderful? Now, just mix 'em, and you're set! Sprinkle some red pepper flakes for an added kick! Guarantee that you are using pure ground chili, especially if you're not in the U.S.! This will impact the flavor, trust me, it's worth it! I'm sure you'll enjoy it!

Steps

process or instructions provided

Now, preparing this spice mix is so easy, it's practically fool-proof—but if I can do it, you definitely can!

First, grab a bowl. Any old bowl will do, I promise I won't judge your kitchenware. Next, let's dump in all those wonderful spices.

I want you to measure out 1 teaspoon of garlic powder—that gives a great kick. Then, 1 teaspoon of onion powder enters the scene and 1 teaspoon of dried oregano—make sure it's not too old.

Add in 2 teaspoons each of cumin and paprika. Next, pour in ¼ teaspoon of chili powder! Remember to adjust to taste. Then, add 1 teaspoon of salt, and finally, ¼ teaspoon of black pepper.

Alright, mix it all up until it's nicely combined. Good job! Now, find an airtight container—and stash it away!

Tips and Variations

advice and alternative options

I think you'll find there is a world of possibilities when it comes to customizing this taco seasoning! It can be tailored to whatever tastes your family enjoys and what spices you have in your pantry!

If you want to kick things up a bit, don't be afraid to experiment a little. Here are some ideas for you:

  1. For a smoky flavor, add 1/2 teaspoon of smoked paprika!
  2. Want a little extra depth? Toss in 1/4 teaspoon of chipotle powder because it adds a crazy kick!
  3. Got picky eaters? Reduce the chili powder and maybe add a pinch of sugar to sweeten things up.

Seriously, though, don't overthink it. The best part is you can adjust everything for your cooking recipes. A little tweak here and there, and you'll have the perfectly spiced taco meat and quesadilla fillings.

Short Recipe Version

Prep Time: 5 minutes

Cook Time: 15 minutes

Serving Size: ~12 servings

Ingredients:

1 tbsp olive oil

1/2 small onion, chopped

2 cloves garlic, minced

1 tsp chili powder

1/2 tsp cumin

1/4 tsp smoked paprika

1/4 tsp oregano

1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional)

1 (15 ounce) can tomato sauce

1/2 cup water

1 tbsp apple cider vinegar

1/2 tsp salt

1/4 tsp black pepper

Instructions:

  1. Heat olive oil in a saucepan over medium heat. Add onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
  2. Add garlic, chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, oregano, and cayenne pepper (if using). Cook for 1 minute, until fragrant.
  3. Pour in tomato sauce, water, apple cider vinegar, salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer.
  4. Reduce heat and simmer for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
  5. Let cool before serving.

Nutrition Information (per serving, estimated):

Calories: 15

Fat: 1g

Sodium: 100mg

Carbohydrates: 2g

Protein: 0g