Taco and Montreal Steak Seasonings
We all long for the things that bring us joy. We also long for the sense of control and order in our own little ecosystems. I don’t like to use the word “Universe,” because it’s too New-Agey for me. The Universe doesn’t bring me joy, peace, and love—God, who created the universe, does. I’d rather say His name than give credit to a deep, dark, cold void. How about you?
Lately, I have been ordering uniform style storage containers and spice bottles. After over 40 years of housekeeping, I finally got tired of closing doors quickly before something could fall out. Of course, I’ve broken a few things that lived on the counters…like my teapots…since they were right under the kamikaze spice cupboard.
I sparked joy in my own way, without holding one thing to my chest and testing to see how it made me feel. My spices are now where I can see what I have. My dry goods, like beans, noodles, quinoa, rice, and so on, are all in 20 labeled containers I can pull out when I want. The best part: I may never need to shop for those again!
In prayer, I have asked God “To order my life.” He took me literally, and I’m grateful. There’s peace to saving time and avoiding frustration. Two very simple things I can do for myself that save money and provide me with something I need right in reach are these seasoning recipes. My gift to you is below, with these recipes for Taco Seasoning, and Montreal Steak Seasoning. I use the Montreal Steak Seasoning as a general “seasoned salt” on potato or pasta salads, and in cooking. I usually make the Taco Seasoning x4, so I have plenty on hand.
Taco Seasoning Mix
1 tablespoon chili powder
¼ teaspoon garlic powder
¼ teaspoon onion powder
¼ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
¼ teaspoon dried oregano
½ teaspoon paprika
1 ½ teaspoons ground cumin
1 teaspoon sea salt
1 teaspoon black pepper
Montreal Steak Seasoning
2 tablespoons black pepper (peppercorns are difficult to grind)
2 tablespoons paprika (not smoked)
1 tablespoon red pepper flakes
2 tablespoons coarse salt
1 tablespoon granulated garlic
1 tablespoon onion powder
1 tablespoon cayenne pepper (use less or omit if preferred)
1 tablespoon coriander seeds or ground
1 tablespoon dill seed
Directions for both: In a small bowl, mix together all ingredients. Store in an airtight container.