Tired of store-bought seasoning blends filled with unfamiliar ingredients? Craving the vibrant flavors of fajitas but wanting a healthier, more customizable option? Then look no further! This homemade Old El Paso Fajita Seasoning recipe is your ticket to restaurant-quality fajitas without the fuss or the hidden nasties. It's incredibly easy, surprisingly quick, and lets you control exactly what goes into your delicious, healthy meals. Get ready to elevate your weeknight dinners and impress your friends with this simple, yet incredibly flavorful, recipe.
Ingredients: You'll Need These Simple Staples
This recipe uses common pantry staples, making it a perfect addition to your collection of quick dinner ideas.
- 2 tablespoons chili powder
- 1 tablespoon paprika (smoked paprika adds a delicious depth)
- 1 tablespoon cumin
- 1 tablespoon garlic powder
- 1 tablespoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon oregano
- 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper (or less, to taste)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon dried thyme
Instructions: A Step-by-Step Guide to Flavor Town
This recipe is so easy, even beginner cooks can master it!
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Combine the Spices: In a small bowl, whisk together the chili powder, paprika, cumin, garlic powder, onion powder, oregano, cayenne pepper, salt, black pepper, and thyme. Make sure everything is well combined to ensure even flavor distribution.
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Store and Enjoy: Transfer the homemade fajita seasoning to an airtight container. Store in a cool, dark place for up to 6 months. This allows the flavors to meld, creating an even more complex and delicious seasoning blend over time.
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Using Your Homemade Seasoning: Generously sprinkle the seasoning over your favorite proteins (chicken, steak, shrimp, or vegetables) before cooking. You can also add it to your marinade for extra flavor penetration.
Tips and Tricks for Fajita Perfection
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Adjust the Spice Level: Feel free to adjust the amount of cayenne pepper to your preferred level of heat. For a milder seasoning, omit it altogether or use a smaller amount.
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Fresh is Best (Sometimes): While this recipe uses dried herbs and spices, consider adding a teaspoon of freshly ground cumin and a tablespoon of finely chopped fresh cilantro for an even brighter flavor profile.
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Versatile Seasoning: This homemade fajita seasoning isn't just for fajitas! Use it to season roasted vegetables, grilled meats, tacos, or even as a dry rub for your favorite protein. This simple blend works wonders as a delicious addition to countless healthy meals.
Variations to Explore: Unleash Your Creativity
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Citrus Zest: Add a teaspoon of lime or lemon zest for a bright, citrusy twist.
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Chipotle Powder: For a smoky, slightly sweet heat, incorporate ½ teaspoon of chipotle powder.
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Other Spices: Experiment with other spices like coriander, ancho chili powder, or even a touch of cinnamon for unique flavor profiles.
Nutritional Information (Per Tablespoon)
This information is an approximation and may vary depending on the specific ingredients used.
- Calories: Approximately 15-20
- Fat: Less than 1g
- Sodium: Approximately 150-200mg
This Old El Paso Fajita Seasoning recipe is a testament to the power of simple, homemade cooking. It’s a fantastic way to elevate your everyday meals and create delicious, healthy dishes without compromising on flavor. So, ditch the store-bought stuff and embrace the magic of homemade seasoning! You won't regret it.