Introduction
Fajita Seasoning is a classic, versatile blend, perfect for fajitas, tacos, or grilled meats. This smoky, spicy mix, featuring chili powder, cumin, and paprika, delivers bold, Mexican-inspired flavors to elevate any dish. Presented in a white ceramic bowl, garnished with a sprinkle of chili powder or a small chili pepper, this Fajita Seasoning offers a vibrant, inviting aesthetic that enhances any kitchen. This recipe provides a traditional version, adaptable for dietary preferences, and ideal for home cooks seeking a crowd-pleasing seasoning that brings zesty, savory charm to any meal.
Ingredients
For the Fajita Seasoning:
- 1 tbsp chili powder (preferably ancho or New Mexico)
- 1 tbsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
For Serving:
- Optional: Chili powder sprinkle, small chili pepper
- Suggested Accompaniments: Chicken, beef, or veggie fajitas, tacos
- Suggested Pairings: Mexican rice, limeade
- Suggested Aesthetic: Store in a white ceramic bowl
- Suggested Equipment: Small mixing bowl, measuring spoons, airtight container
Step-by-Step Process
- Combine Spices: In a small mixing bowl, combine chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, oregano, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper (if using). Stir until well-blended.
- Taste and Adjust: Taste a small pinch of the seasoning and adjust with additional salt, chili powder, or cayenne for a balanced smoky-spicy flavor.
- Store: Transfer to an airtight container or a white ceramic bowl for presentation. Garnish with a sprinkle of chili powder or a small chili pepper for aesthetic appeal.
- Use: Use 1–2 tsp per pound of meat or vegetables for fajitas. Sprinkle on chicken, beef, or veggies before grilling or sautéing, and serve with Mexican rice or limeade.
Tips for Better Fajita Seasoning
- Use high-quality chili powder (e.g., ancho or New Mexico) for authentic, smoky flavor.
- Taste the seasoning blend before storing to balance smoky, spicy, and savory notes, as spice potency varies.
- Mix thoroughly to ensure even distribution of flavors.
- Store in an airtight container to maintain freshness and potency.
- Use a white ceramic bowl for a vibrant presentation, highlighting the colorful spice blend and garnish.
- Make ahead: Prepare and store up to 6 months in a cool, dry place.
- Check for clumping; if clumpy, sift or break up before using.
- Enhance aesthetic: Present in a white ceramic bowl with chili powder or a chili pepper for a bold, inviting look.
Variations and Customization
- Gluten-Free Fajita Seasoning: Ensure all spices are gluten-free (most are naturally gluten-free).
- Low-Sodium Fajita Seasoning: Reduce salt to 1/4 tsp or omit entirely.
- Spicy Fajita Seasoning: Increase cayenne pepper to 1/2 tsp or add 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes.
- Mild Fajita Seasoning: Omit cayenne pepper and reduce chili powder to 2 tsp.
- Citrus Fajita Seasoning: Add 1 tsp dried lime zest or citrus powder for a tangy twist.
- Smoky Fajita Seasoning: Increase smoked paprika to 1 1/2 tsp for extra smokiness.
- Herbed Fajita Seasoning: Add 1/2 tsp dried cilantro or thyme for a herby note.
- Sweet Fajita Seasoning: Add 1/2 tsp brown sugar for a subtle sweetness.
Storage and Serving Tips
- Store in an airtight container in a cool, dry place for up to 6 months; shake or stir before using.
- Do not freeze, as moisture can affect spice quality.
- Use as a dry rub for fajitas, tacos, or grilled vegetables, or mix with oil for a marinade.
- Pair with chicken or beef fajitas to complement the smoky, spicy flavor.
- Present in a white ceramic bowl with vibrant garnishes for a bold, inviting charm.
- Use 1–2 tsp per pound of protein or vegetables for optimal flavor.
Nutritional Information
Based on 8 servings (1/2 tbsp each):
- Calories: 10 kcal
- Total Fat: 0g
- Saturated Fat: 0g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
- Sodium: 150mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 2g
- Dietary Fiber: 1g
- Sugars: 0g
- Protein: 0g
- Vitamin A: 8% Daily Value
- Vitamin C: 2% Daily Value
- Calcium: 2% Daily Value
- Iron: 4% Daily Value
Note: Values vary by brand. Moderate in sodium; try the low-sodium version. Pair with vegetables for balance.
Conclusion
This Fajita Seasoning recipe offers a smoky, spicy blend, perfect for any occasion, transforming simple ingredients into a Mexican-inspired classic. Its quick preparation and vibrant presentation make it a favorite. The bold, savory flavors enhance every dish. It’s sure to be a cherished recipe, loved for its zesty, versatile appeal.
Fajita Seasoning Recipe: Smoky and Spicy
Ingredients
- 1 tbsp chili powder
- 1 tbsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- ½ tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- ¼ tsp cayenne pepper optional
- Optional: Chili powder small chili pepper
- Suggested Pairings: Fajitas limeade
Instructions
- Mix chili powder, cumin, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, oregano, salt, pepper, and cayenne.
- Taste and adjust the seasoning.
- Store in an airtight container or white ceramic bowl with chili powder and chili pepper garnish.
- Use 1–2 tsp per pound of meat or veggies for fajitas. Serve with rice and limeade.
Notes
- Use high-quality chili powder for the best flavor.
- Store in a dry place for 6 months.
- Try low-sodium or spicy variations.
- Pair with tacos.
