Homemade Taco Seasoning

In one of my classes with Chef Gaby we talked about whole spices and grinding our own.  We put together rubs, vinegars, oils, and other dry spices. One was this, taco seasoning.  She threw together spices I would never have thought to put together for true "taco" seasoning.  This is nothing like those taco packets.  It's better!  Why?  First off, they are whole spices that are ground.  A WOW! Bam! Burst of flavor! Second, whatever combination this is, works!!  

I only took basic notes on the spices so I figured up measurements and we liked this combo. 

Taco Seasoning

1 small cinnamon stick (broken up a little)

1 Tablespoon whole cumin seed

1/2 Tablespoon whole coriander 

1/2 Tablespoon whole fennel seed

1 Tablespoon ground chili powder

1 Tablespoon ground paprika

Place whole seeds and bits in a coffee grinder.  You must not use this grinder for coffee, just spices!

 Grind until smooth, pulsing as you go.

Add chili powder and paprika. You can use smoked paprika if you want but I thought the taste might overwhelm and also for me it is more expensive.  Pulse a couple times just to mix.  Place in airtight container.

This 1 cup jar is filled with two recipes.  I found that 3/4 to 1 Tablespoon was plenty for 1 pound of ground beef but feel free to season as you like.   I did not add salt to mix you can either add your own to your powder or add to the beef separate.