Thrifty Seasoning mixes

As a Family on a budget (who isn't these days) I'm always looking for way to cut my grocery bill. I've found a few recipes over the years that have become staples in my pantry due to their low cost and easy prep.

Today's blog will focus on seasonings and rubs. I try to buy cheaper cuts of meat and in the "family" size packs to cut down on the prices per pound. I then portion the meat into freezer bags and freeze it for future use. Having creative ways to prepare the cheaper cuts of meats help cut down on the toughness that sometimes occurs.

I keep a fairly well stocked pantry when it comes to seasonings, so I had the majority of these ingredients on hand already. The rest I was able to pick up at our local IGA for under a dollar or at our local Dollar Tree.

All Purpose Rub:
makes 2/3 cup/seasons about 4 lb. of meat

1 tsp. cumin
1 T. chili powder
1 T kosher salt
1 tsp. oregano
2 tsp. garlic powder
2 tsp. onion powder
1 T paprika
1/4 c. firmly packed brown sugar

*MIX TOGETHER
*RUB INTO SKIN OF MEAT, LET SIT FOR AN HOUR FOR MORE FLAVOR
(The recipe I have says you can use it on chicken, pork, beef or fish. I've only used it on chicken and beef. It's yummy on the grill. The brown sugar gives it a nice glaze.

Taco Seasoning
Yield: 6 T.

8 tsp. dried minced onion
2 T. chili powder
2 tsp. cornstarch
2 tsp. garlic powder
2 tsp. ground cumin
1 tsp. dried oregano
1/4 tsp. cayenne pepper

*Combine in airtight container
*Store in cool, dry place for up to 1 year

**I know packets of taco seasoning are fairly cheap in the store, however I think this recipe tastes better. Plus I feel better giving Riley taco meat (which he loves) as I know exactly what's in this seasoning. Less preservatives is always good!

Onion Soup Mix
Yield: about 1 c. mix

3/4 c. minced onion
1/3 c beef bullion
4 tsp. onion powder
1/4 tsp. celery seed, crushed
1/4 tsp sugar

For onion soup dip--5 T. dry mix to 16 oz. sour cream
I also use this mix on roasted potatoes, roasted chicken and pot roast in the slow cooker