Old El Paso
Old El Paso Taco Seasoning Mix Ranch
What it is
This is a blend of dried herbs and spices designed to give taco meat a distinct ranch flavor. It typically includes ingredients like chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, onion powder, and dried buttermilk or sour cream powder to achieve the characteristic tangy and creamy taste of ranch dressing. The mix is pre-portioned for convenience, eliminating the need to measure individual spices.
How people cook with it
This seasoning mix is a quick way to add flavor to ground meat for tacos. It can also be used to season other dishes.
- Seasoning ground beef for tacos
- Flavoring chicken for fajitas
- Dipping sauce for vegetables
- Seasoning roasted potatoes
To prepare taco meat, brown the ground meat in a skillet, drain off any excess fat, and then stir in the seasoning mix along with the recommended amount of water. Simmer the mixture until the sauce has thickened and coats the meat evenly. This seasoning can also be incorporated into other dishes by sprinkling it over vegetables before roasting or mixing it with sour cream or yogurt to create a quick dip or salad dressing. Its versatility makes it a handy pantry staple.
How it differs from similar foods
The primary difference of this seasoning mix is its ranch flavor profile, which is a departure from traditional taco seasonings. The inclusion of dairy powders and herbs like dill and parsley gives it a creamy, tangy, and herbaceous quality not found in standard blends.
Who it is for
Home cooks looking for a convenient way to add a popular flavor combination to their meals.
How to keep the rest
After opening, store the remaining seasoning mix in an airtight container in a cool, dry place. This helps to preserve the freshness and potency of the spices, preventing them from clumping or losing their flavor over time. Ensure the container is sealed tightly.