DIY Southwest Spice Blend Recipe (HelloFresh Copycat)

Southwest seasoning blend is a flavorful mix of herbs and spices that brings the vibrant and earthy flavors of the American Southwest to your kitchen. It's perfect for jazzing up your Mexican recipes, as a dry rub for meats, and in slow cooker dishes. Once you try this Southwest Spice Blend Recipe it'll become a staple in your kitchen!

If you've been searching for an easy way to create your own southwest seasoning mix at home, you've come to the right place.

In this post, we'll dive into the world of southwest spices, providing an easy recipe for a homemade seasoning mix that's sure to delight your taste buds. 

So, let's get started!

Table of Contents

• What is Southwest Spice Blend?
• Ingredients
• How to Make Southwest Spice Blend
• How to Store Leftovers
• How to Use Southwest Spice Blend
• Recipe Tips and Tricks
• More Dinner Ideas
• Comments

What is Southwest Spice Blend?

Southwest seasoning blend, also known as southwestern seasoning or taco seasoning, is a delicious mixture of spices that adds a unique flavor to your Mexican-inspired dishes.

It typically includes ingredients like ancho chili powder, cayenne pepper, onion powder, and more, which work together to create a smoky, robust flavor profile reminiscent of southwest flavors. 

This unique blend is versatile and can be used in a wide range of dishes, making it a must-have addition to your spice cabinet.

This delicious seasoning became extremely popular when it was added into meal kits like Hello Fresh and has become a staple in many recipes.

Ingredients

To make your own southwest seasoning mix, you'll need the following ingredients:

- ¼ cup chili powder (preferably ancho chili powder or use chipotle chili powder for a smoky flavor)

- ¼ cup ground cumin

- 2 tablespoon onion powder

- 2 tablespoon kosher salt

- 1 tablespoon black pepper (coarse ground)

- 1 tablespoon ground coriander

- 1 tablespoon Mexican oregano (you can substitute Italian oregano)

- 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper

- 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (you can adjust the amount based on your personal preferences)

- 1 teaspoon garlic powder (optional)

Terracotta Pinch Bowl Set12-Piece Herbs & Spices Starter SetUnbreakable Bowls

 

How to Make Southwest Spice Blend

reating your own southwest seasoning blend is simple and easy. Follow these steps:

1. Gather your ingredients and a small mixing bowl.

2. Combine all the spices in the mixing bowl, stirring to incorporate them evenly.

3. Once thoroughly mixed, transfer your homemade blend to a small jar or spice jar.

4. Label your spice jar for easy identification later on.

Congratulations! You've made your own flavorful southwest seasoning from scratch, right in your own kitchen.

How to Store Leftovers

To ensure the longevity of your homemade seasoning mixes, follow these storage guidelines:

Store your southwest spice mix in an airtight container (such as a small jar) to prevent moisture from seeping in.

Keep your homemade southwest seasoning in a cool dry place, away from direct sunlight and heat sources. Store at room temperature.

Use a clean, dry spoon or measuring utensil when removing the seasoning from the jar to prevent contamination.

How to Use Southwest Spice Blend

The possibilities are endless when it comes to using your homemade southwest seasoning blend.

Here are just a few ideas to get you started:

• Rub onto chicken or steak before grilling for a flavorful marinade.
• Sprinkle on top of roasted vegetables for an added kick of flavor.
• Mix into ground meat for tacos, burgers, or meatballs.
• Add to soups, stews, and chili for a southwest twist.
• Use as a dry rub for ribs or pulled pork.
• Mix with mayonnaise or sour cream to create a dip for vegetables or chips.
• Sprinkle onto popcorn for a unique and tasty snack.
• This flavorful southwest seasoning makes perfect gifts! Pour your own spice mixes into little containers and add on a gift label 

So go ahead and get creative with your homemade southwest seasoning blend! Experiment with different dishes and ingredients to find your perfect blend.

And don't be afraid to adjust the ratios of spices to suit your taste preferences. With this versatile and flavorful spice blend, the possibilities are endless.

Recipe Tips and Tricks

Here are some expert tips to help you make the most of your homemade southwest seasoning blend:

Experiment with different spices, such as smoked paprika, green tea, black tea, or whole spices (which can be ground using a spice grinder). This will allow you to customize the flavor of your homemade spice blends to suit your specific taste preferences.

Looking for a shortcut? Many ingredients such as ancho chiles and Mexican oregano can be found pre-ground at specialty markets and online. However, if you want to grind them yourself, be sure to remove the seeds and stems before grinding.

Play around with the ratios of spices to find what works best for you. For example, if you prefer a spicier blend, add more chili powder or cayenne pepper. If you're making this for the first time, try it according to the recipe and then adjust as needed next time. 

Don't be afraid to get creative and use your homemade southwest seasoning in non-traditional ways. It can add flavor to grilled meats and vegetables, spice up soups and stews

More Dinner Ideas

We love the Chicken Taco Wontons "Cupcakes" recipe because it combines the flavors of tacos in a crispy and bite-sized package, perfect for snacking or as a main dish.

The Instant Pot Buffalo Chicken is a favorite because it results in tender, flavorful chicken with minimal effort, making it a go-to for busy weeknights.

Turkey Meatloaf with Roasted Potatoes and Asparagus (Sheet Pan Dinner) is a winner in our book because it offers a complete meal cooked on one pan, minimizing cleanup while delivering deliciousness.

Dinner is super quick and easy when you have homemade turkey taco seasoning on hand. It's easy to keep in your pantry to whip up quick turkey tacos.

The Southwest Quinoa Salad is a refreshing and nutritious option that we adore, as it combines protein-packed quinoa with black beans, corn, and a zesty lime dressing for a burst of flavors.

Thai Noodles with Peanut Sauce is a go-to when we're craving Thai cuisine. The creamy peanut sauce coats perfectly cooked noodles, creating a dish that's packed with rich and savory flavors.