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ON COOKING: Spice blends a quick and easy way to add flavour and save money

Chef Dez offers up three spice blends enjoyed in his household
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Chef Dez offers some homemade spice blends. (chefdez.com)

By Chef Dez/Special to Black Press Media

We always make our own spice and herb blends in our house. These are three of our favourites that I know you will enjoy.

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Taco Seasoning

“Why buy store-bought, when you can make it yourself? Taco Tuesday will never be the same again!”

2 tablespoons Mexican chilli powder

5 teaspoons smoked paprika

4.5 teaspoons ground cumin

3 teaspoons onion powder

2.5 teaspoons garlic powder

1.5 teaspoons salt

1/8 to 1/4 teaspoon ground cayenne pepper

Mix all ingredients together and store indefinitely.

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Chili Rub Seasoning

“This rub is great on chicken or pork, but can be used on fish, beef, and/or vegetables too! I like it when making chicken or pork tacos.”

3 tablespoons Mexican chilli powder

1.5 tablespoons dark brown sugar

2 teaspoons garlic powder

2 teaspoons smoked paprika

2 teaspoons salt

2 teaspoons ground cumin

1 teaspoon freshly cracked black pepper

1 teaspoon dried oregano

1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon

Mix all ingredients together and store indefinitely.

Makes approximately 1/2 cup.

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Italian Seasoning

“Great to keep on hand in your spice rack. Don’t use ‘ground’ herbs though.”

2 tablespoons dried basil

2 tablespoons dried oregano

2 tablespoons dried rosemary

2 tablespoons garlic powder

1 tablespoon dried thyme

Combine all ingredients together and keep in a sealed jar.

Makes approximately 1/2 cup.

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– Chef Dez is a food columnist and culinary instructor in the Fraser Valley. Visit him at www.chefdez.com. Send questions to dez@chefdez.com or to P.O. Box 2674, Abbotsford, B.C. V2T 6R4

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