Spices for Self-Care

Spices make food taste better. But did you know spices have antioxidants and anti inflammation properties? According to WebMD, paprika, cayenne and chili pepper contain Capasaicin which helps with pain relief and in controlling appetite. Spices are a two-for-one: they improve taste and make you feel better.

Sometimes you can just add spices to recipes and get their benefits. Other times spices are in mixes like chili powder or taco seasoning. Unfortunately, people with celiac disease or gluten intolerance can't use store mixes because they contain gluten as a thickener. This instructable is a way to make your own mixes with spices so these individuals can enjoy foods that use use chili powder and taco seasoning.

Once you have a stash of these two blends, it's easy whip up some chili, tacos, taco salads, etc. You can use them to jazz up guacamole, salad dressing, scrambled eggs or salsa. Take a look at my "Southwest Wok Dinner" instructable for another example (click here to see).

Ingredients

Chili Powder

• 6 teaspoons paprika
• 1 1/2 teaspoon cumin
• 1 1/2 teaspoon oregano
• 1 teaspoon chili pepper powder (ancho, chipotle, etc.)
• 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper

Taco seasoning (2 1/2 teaspoons = one package mix)

• 4 teaspoons chili powder (from above recipe)
• 4 teaspoons paprika
• 3 teaspoons salt
• 3 teaspoons onion powder
• 2 teaspoons cumin
• 1 teaspoon sugar
• 1 tablespoon corn starch
• 2 tablespoons beef bouillon powder

• bottles to store spice mixes
• funnel (I cut a soda bottle to make one)
• measuring spoons

* Following the ingredients listed in the introduction.

* Your chance to get a little exercise.