Ortega taco seasoning is a pre-made blend of spices and ingredients used to add flavor to ground beef or other taco fillings. The exact ingredients can vary between different Ortega products, but most varieties contain a similar base of common taco spices.
Common Ingredients
Here are some of the core ingredients commonly found in Ortega taco seasoning mixes:
- Chili Powder – This provides a rich chili flavor and red color.
- Crushed Red Pepper – Adds a touch of spicy heat.
- Onion Powder – Provides savory onion flavor without the texture.
- Garlic Powder – Gives an aromatic garlic taste.
- Ground Cumin – A key spice in Tex-Mex cuisine that provides earthy, warm flavor.
- Oregano – A herb that brings a subtle grassy, slightly bitter taste.
- Salt – Draws out the flavors of the other ingredients.
- Black Pepper – Adds a little spice and bite.
- Paprika – Provides both flavor and natural red color.
- Sugar – A small amount to balance and round out the flavors.
These ingredients form the core flavor profile of taco seasoning. Different brands may contain some additional herbs, spices, flavorings, anti-caking agents or preservatives, but the ingredients above are most commonly used as the base.
Ingredients in Original Ortega Taco Seasoning
Ortega’s original taco seasoning mix contains:
- Salt
- Dehydrated onions
- Sugar
- Paprika
- Spices
- Garlic powder
- Citric acid
- Hydrolyzed corn protein
- Natural flavors
- Dehydrated garlic
“Spices” indicates a blend of the core taco spices like chili powder, cumin, oregano, etc. The exact proportions are proprietary. Citric acid helps maintain seasoning quality and prolong shelf life. Hydrolyzed corn protein enhances flavor. The natural flavors provide additional savory taste. Overall this mix sticks to the basics – the primary ingredients are different forms of onion, garlic and the key taco spices.
Ingredients Can Vary By Product
While original Ortega seasoning focuses on the core taco spices, some of their other mixes add extra ingredients:
- Low Sodium Taco Seasoning – Contains less salt plus onion powder and cornstarch.
- Reduced Sodium Taco Seasoning – Also has less salt and adds cornstarch.
- No Salt Added Taco Seasoning – Eliminates salt and incorporates onion powder and cornstarch to replace it.
- XXTRA Hot Taco Seasoning – Adds an extra dose of red pepper for spicy heat.
- Smoky Taco Seasoning – Includes smoked paprika and additional spices like chili peppers for a smokier flavor.
As you can see, ingredients like onion powder and cornstarch get used in some varieties to reduce sodium and enhance flavor. Specific extra spices are also added to create bolder heat or smokiness. But the core chili powder, cumin, oregano and other taco spices remain present in all Ortega seasoning mixes.
Nutrition Facts of Ortega Taco Seasoning
Being composed primarily of herbs, spices, vegetables (onion and garlic) and a small amount of salt and sugar, Ortega taco seasoning is low in calories, fat, carbs and protein. The nutrition facts can vary slightly between specific products:
| Nutrition Facts | Original (per 1 tbsp) | Low Sodium (per 1 tbsp) |
|---|---|---|
| Calories | 10 | 0 |
| Total Fat | 0g | 0g |
| Sodium | 330mg | 160mg |
| Total Carbs | 2g | 1g |
| Dietary Fiber | 1g | 0g |
| Sugars | 0g | 0g |
| Protein | 0g | 0g |
As you can see, the nutrition content is minimal aside from the sodium in the regular Original variety. The Low Sodium version reduces sodium substantially, bringing it down to 160mg per tablespoon. So those looking to limit salt intake may want to choose the lower sodium options.
How to Make Homemade Taco Seasoning
It’s easy to make your own homemade taco seasoning using common spices and pantry ingredients:
Ingredients:
- 2 tablespoons chili powder
- 1 tablespoon ground cumin
- 1 tablespoon paprika
- 1 tablespoon onion powder
- 2 teaspoons garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- Optional: 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper or chipotle chile powder for extra heat
Instructions:
- Combine all ingredients in a small bowl and stir to blend thoroughly.
- Store homemade taco seasoning in an airtight container.
- Use 1-2 tablespoons per pound of ground beef or turkey to season taco meat.
Adjust the quantities to your taste preferences. Add more chili powder and cayenne pepper for spicier seasoning, or more cumin and oregano for more earthy flavor. Play around with ingredients like smoked paprika, coriander, allspice or cloves for a unique taco spice blend.
Conclusion
Ortega taco seasoning contains a base of ingredients like chili powder, paprika, onion, garlic, cumin, and oregano to create an authentic taco flavor profile. Specific products may also include extras like red pepper, smoke flavors or lower sodium. But the core spice blend stays consistent to provide a convenient way to season taco meat and other Tex-Mex dishes.