Make Your Own Mixes

Have you noticed how expensive those little seasoning packets have gotten lately? The Taco Seasoning and Spaghetti Seasoning Envelopes that we used to buy on sale for as little as 20 cents? Some are as much as a dollar or more. Why not make your own and save. Not only that you can leave out the preservatives, anti-caking agents and MSG among all those other things that we can't even pronounce. It's easy to do. If you live near a Winco you can buy your spices in bulk from their wonderful newly expanded bulk spice section. It's great to feel like you are saving money. I love making mixes from scratch and try new ones whenever I get a chance. Today I'll share an easy "from scratch" taco seasoning mix that will replace one envelope and save a few pennies in the process.

Taco Seasoning Mix
2 ½ teaspoons instant minced onion
½ teaspoon cornstarch
½ teaspoon crushed dried red pepper (more if you like it hotter)
1 teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon instant minced garlic
1 teaspoon chili powder
¼ teaspoon dried oregano
½ teaspoon ground cumin
1/8 teaspoon black pepper
Combine all ingredients in a small bowl until evenly distributed. To use In Taco filling add seasoning mix and ½ c. water to cooked and drained ground beef. Make extra packets and store in Ziploc bags or small Rubbermaid containers for future use.