Sandra This smoky, savory Alton Brown Taco Seasoning is made with hot smoked paprika, toasted cumin, and cornstarch and ready in just 5 minutes. The blend creates a rich, glossy sauce when simmered with beef broth, coating every crumble of meat perfectly rather than leaving it dry. I keep a jar of this “Potion #19” in my pantry so I never have to rely on salty store-bought packets again.
Better Than Takeaway
Most people think the secret to taco night is the meat, but I learned that the texture of the seasoning matters just as much. Store-bought packets use thickeners to create that signature “taco meat” consistency, and Alton Brown’s genius addition of cornstarch replicates that perfectly without the artificial additives.
The first time I made this, I was surprised by how much difference the hot smoked paprika made compared to standard paprika. It gives the meat a depth of flavor that tastes like it has been simmering for hours, even though it comes together in minutes.
Alton Brown Taco Seasoning Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons chili powder
- 1 tablespoon ground cumin (or whole cumin seeds, toasted and ground)
- 2 teaspoons cornstarch
- 2 teaspoons kosher salt
- 1 1/2 teaspoons hot smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon ground coriander
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
How To Make Alton Brown Taco Seasoning
- Measure Spices: Gather all your ingredients. If you want the most authentic flavor, toast whole cumin seeds in a dry skillet for 1-2 minutes until fragrant, then grind them into a powder before measuring.
- Combine: Add the chili powder, cumin, cornstarch, salt, smoked paprika, coriander, and cayenne pepper to a small glass jar or bowl.
- Shake: Seal the jar tightly and shake vigorously until the mixture is uniform in color and the cornstarch is evenly distributed throughout the spices.
Recipe Tips
- The Cornstarch Factor: Do not skip the cornstarch. It reacts with the beef fat and broth during cooking to create a silky sauce that clings to the meat instead of a watery puddle at the bottom of the shell.
- Toast Your Cumin: For the best results, buy whole cumin seeds and toast them before grinding. It adds a nutty, earthy layer that pre-ground spices simply cannot match.
- Adjust the Heat: This recipe has a notable kick from the cayenne and hot smoked paprika. If you are cooking for young children, reduce the cayenne to 1/4 teaspoon.
What To Serve With Tacos
Serve your seasoned meat inside crispy corn shells or soft flour tortillas, topped with shredded iceberg lettuce and sharp cheddar cheese. It also pairs beautifully with a side of Mexican street corn or cilantro lime rice to turn a simple taco night into a complete meal.
How To Store
Store this seasoning in an airtight glass jar or spice container in a cool, dark place to maintain its potency. It will stay fresh for up to 3 months, though the aromatic oils in the cumin may fade slightly over time.
FAQs
- How much seasoning do I use for one pound of meat? Use this entire batch (about 6 tablespoons) for 1 pound of ground beef, along with 2/3 cup of beef broth, for the full Alton Brown experience.
- Can I use regular paprika? You can, but you will miss the signature smoky flavor that defines Potion #19. Try to find “hot smoked paprika” or “Spanish paprika” for the best results.
- Is this gluten-free? Yes, as long as your cornstarch and spices are certified gluten-free, this is a much safer option than commercial packets which often contain wheat fillers.
Nutrition
- Calories: 15
- Total Fat: 1g
- Saturated Fat: 0g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
- Sodium: 770mg
- Total Carbohydrate: 3g
- Protein: 1g
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