Homemade Sauces and Seasonings

Italian Seasoning


3 T. basil
3 T. oregano
3 T. parsley
1 T. garlic powder
1 tsp. onion powder
1 tsp. thyme
1 tsp. rosemary
1/4 tsp. ground pepper
1/4 tsp. red pepper flakes

Mix everything together and store in a sealed container.  I love this so much more than the Italian Seasoning you buy already prepared.  Way more flavor!

Taco Seasoning


1 T. chili powder
1/4 tsp. garlic powder
1/4 tsp. onion powder
1/4 tsp. red pepper flakes
1/4 tsp. oregano
1/2 tsp. paprika
1 1/2 tsp. cumin
1 tsp salt
1 tsp pepper
1/2 T flour

Combine everything and store in a sealed container.  To use:  Mix 1-2 T with 1/2-1 C. water (depending on how strong a flavor you like).  This is a mild seasoning because my family cannot handle anything remotely spicy.  Feel free to liven yours up a bit, if you have that luxury!

Paula Deen's House Seasoning


1 C. salt
1/4 C. black pepper
1/4 C. garlic powder

Mix and seal.  This can be substituted for any recipe calling for seasoned salt.  My favorite ways to use it though, are when grilling chicken to go in a garden salad.  It makes it so flavorful, the chicken barely makes it to the salad before we eat it all up.  I also love putting it on potatoes.  Mashed potatoes, roasted potatoes, grilled potatoes--yummy!

Teriyaki Sauce


1/4 C. soy sauce
1 C. water
1/2 tsp. grated ginger
1/4 tsp. garlic powder
5 T brown sugar
1-2 T honey
2 T cornstarch
1/4 C. cold water

Mix everything but cornstarch and cold water in a saucepan.  Heat.  In a separate bowl, mix cornstarch and water to dissolve.  Add to sauce in pan.  Heat to desired thickness.

Chili Sauce


1 small can tomato sauce
1/4 C. brown sugar
2 T vinegar
1/4 tsp. onion
1/4 tsp. garlic powder
1/2 tsp. chili powder

Mix in small sauce pan.  Heat through.

*I'm currently in search of the perfect homemade barbecue sauce recipe.  I'll let you know when I find it!