The $1 spice packet that beats my whole spice rack

I kept buying those 89 cent taco seasoning packets for ground beef nights, but last week I decided to test it against my own chili powder, cumin, and garlic blend. My homemade mix cost about $1.40 per batch and took 10 minutes, and honestly the packet tasted better. Problem is I already own all the spices, so I'm technically spending more to use less. Anyone else hit that spot where the shortcut version just wins?

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quinncarr22d ago

And the thing is, you're not really comparing apples to apples there. Those packets have more than just the spices you named, they've got onion powder, oregano, sometimes a touch of sugar and even some cornstarch to thicken the sauce. Your mix with just chili powder, cumin, and garlic is missing those layers, so it's no surprise the packet wins. The real trick is to look at the back of the packet and build your blend to match it, then you'll start beating it. I did that once with taco night and found the secret was a tiny bit of MSG, of all things. Once you add that, your $1.40 stash will run circles around the store bought stuff, and it'll last you for months.