5 Best Substitutes For Taco Seasoning

Taco seasoning is a dry spice blend made out of chilis, oregano, cumin, and pepper that is used to season ground meat or vegetables for taco fillings, stews, stir-fries, and other savory foods.

Because of its high salt concentration, many individuals avoid these spices, however there are companies that provide a reduced sodium version.

If you don’t have this spice combination in your cabinet or are trying to eat less salt, consider one of the finest taco seasoning replacements, such as fajita seasoning, chili powder, sriracha hot sauce, chili-cumin combo, and homemade substitution.

These alternatives might still provide you with the delightful umami taste that taco seasoning provides.

What’s In Taco Seasoning?

Taco seasoning combines all of the components needed to season tacos, including cumin, paprika, garlic, oregano, and onion.

These are pulverized together to provide the ideal dry spice blend with a genuine Mexican taste; it is a spicy, sweet, savory, and slightly salty combination.

Taco seasoning derives its name from its usage as a taco ingredient, although it is also frequently used in other cuisines. Taco seasoning, as a combination of several spices, lends the proper level of heat to recipes while also providing a fast remedy.

Taco seasoning may be used in liquid dishes as well as dry rubs; it can also be applied to sandwiches, grilled meals, and stir-fry.

Taco seasoning may also be used to marinades and broths, giving your food a genuine Mexican taste.

It is a highly adaptable ingredient, which means it can be used in a wide variety of dishes; if you don’t have taco spice mix on hand, here are some substitutions.

Best Substitutes For Taco Seasoning

If you run out of taco seasoning or want to substitute it with an item with less salt and heat, you have many options. Most taco seasoning replacements are inexpensive and may already be in your pantry.

1. Homemade Substitute

Taco seasoning is a complicated combination of ingredients and tastes, and you probably have some of these specific spices on hand.

If you run out of store-bought taco seasoning, you can simply prepare your own homemade version.

Taco seasoning is prepared by blending cumin, paprika, onion powder, garlic powder, red chili powder, and oregano; the ingredients may be adjusted to taste.

You will need one teaspoon of each of these spices, but if you want to add a little heat, you may add two teaspoons of ancho powder or cayenne powder.

To enhance the red color of the spice, add more tomato powder. You may leave off the salt, but if you do, use kosher salt.

2. Chili-Cumin Combo

If you don’t have all of the separate components for taco seasoning, a chili-cumin combination is a fast substitution.

Taco seasoning is made up of chili powder and powdered cumin in its most basic form, thus any of those two may be used in lieu of taco seasoning.

Chili powder is produced from many spices, including oregano, and is a near equivalent for taco seasoning.

This spice blend gives both fire and earthiness, which complements most dishes. For an added taste boost, add a sprinkle of salt and garlic powder to this dry spice combination.

3. Fajita Seasoning

Fajita seasoning was devised specifically for flavoring fajitas, making it a perfect option for taco seasoning.

Because fajitas are essentially grilled meat tacos, its spice has a similar flavor profile to taco seasoning. Fajita spice adds a distinctive Mexican taste to any dish that calls for taco seasoning.

However, bear in mind that fajita spice has a sour citrus taste, so make sure your food can handle it.

4. Sriracha Hot Sauce

If you’re creating a meal that allows for a liquid substitution, you may use sriracha hot sauce for taco seasoning. It is fiery and spicy, and it also gives a garlic flavor to your food.

Sriracha sauce has a somewhat sweet flavor and does not include vinegar, so it will not lend a sour flavor to your food.

You may add a sprinkle of cumin and red chili pepper powder to make it taste even more like taco seasoning.

5. Chili Powder

Chili powder is a popular spice included in many homemade taco seasoning alternatives; it often contains cumin, oregano, onion powder, and garlic.

Because of its robust taste, it may be used as a stand-alone taco spice replacement. Chili powder is widely available, and you most likely already have a sachet or container in your spice cabinet.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Can I Use Instead Of Taco Seasoning?

You may use other popular spices for taco seasoning or create your own by mixing a tablespoon of chili powder, 1 teaspoon cumin and salt, a teaspoon of paprika, and a quarter teaspoon of onion powder, oregano, crushed red pepper flakes, and garlic powder.

Do You Drain Meat Before Adding Taco Seasoning?

Draining your meat before adding taco seasoning reduces fat and enhances taste. This also contributes to the meat’s high fat content, which keeps it juicy.

What’s The Difference Between Chili Powder And Taco Seasoning?

Taco seasoning has more cumin in it than typical chili powder. Chili powder, on the other hand, has a higher paprika and chili content than taco seasoning.

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