In examining my world and how healthy and sustainable it is, I am focusing on pre-packaged things that I can make myself.  This would serve several purposes.  First, it would be cheaper.  Second, it would be healthier.  And third, that item may not always be available.

I started with something I use regularly: taco seasoning.  I’m a huge fan of home-made burritos.  I often season rice with taco seasoning and put that down on the flour tortilla shell on top of spicy, fat-free re-fried beans.  Then I put down a layer of sauteed onions and peppers.  Then some shredded cheddar cheese.  Then diced tomato and avocado to top it off.  Yummy!

I searched the internet and found several taco seasoning recipes.  I chose one at more or less random and headed to the food co-op.  I loaded up on fresh, bulk spices – they smelled so much better than the store-bought variety.  They weren’t cheap, but I know I paid for quality and would be saving money on the taco seasoning.

The DIY taco seasoning recipe involved mixing together the following ingredients:

1 tbsp chili powder
1/4 tsp garlic powder
1/4 tsp onion powder
1/8 tsp cayenne pepper
1/4 tsp oregano
1/2 tsp paprika
1 tsp ground cumin
1 tsp sea salt
1 tsp black pepper

Occasionally, I have meat from a cow raised lovingly by my sister.  In that instance, after your ground beef is browned, add some warm water, this seasoning (to your taste) and a tablespoon or so of flour.  Mix it in well and then cook off the water.

The first time I made it, although it tasted really great, I realized it was too spicy… especially if I want to package it for gifts.  It did look, smell and cook just like packaged seasoning, though.

I was very impressed with myself.  I dulled down the spiciness a bit and served it to my mother.  It was still a little spicy, and she worried about its effect on her digestive system.  However, there was none, and I am guessing this is because there was nothing artificial in the mix – it was all pure, natural spices.  No MSG or maltodextrin or caramel color or silicon dioxide or autolyzed yeast extract.

Give it a try and let me know how it goes!