I inherited my dad’s taste for spicy foods. I loooove them. But they just don’t love me back. I’m pretty sensitive to nightshades. A few pieces of jalapeno, or a little paprika and I swell up like a balloon. I’d gain a pound or two overnight and have swollen, sore joints to boot. And heartburn. It takes 2-3 days for the effects to wear off. After I started The Plan and identified the foods that I reacted to, I knew I had to find some way to make tacos friendly for me, while still allowing some flavor for my family. I had to make a nightshade free taco seasoning, but it was a challenge for someone who’d only ever used spice packets from the store.
In an effort to enjoy spicy foods I’ve had to get a little creative. If you’re NOT sensitive, then amp up the heat with paprika, chili powder, cayenne to taste. Making the spice mix yourself means you can tailor your taco seasoning to your needs, save money and don’t have to worry about inflammatory “flavor enhancers” like MSG. Not only do you not have to worry about inflammation from nightshades or MSG, but this recipe actually fights inflammation thanks to the turmeric!
Ingredients:
- 2 tsp. cumin
- 3/4 tsp. turmeric
- 1/4 tsp. onion powder
- 1/4 tsp. garlic powder
- 3/4 tsp. oregano
- 1/4 tsp. cinnamon
- 1/4 tsp. ginger
- 2/3 cup warm water
You can add more or less spices to suit your needs. Depending on how inflamed I am, I might add more turmeric. Brown your meat (preferably grass fed). Drain the fat off, mix the spices into the warm water, and stir into the meat. Turn the heat down and let the spices & meat simmer.
Add the meat to taco shells or tortillas. To make it paleo you can use your favorite recipe for gluten free tortillas or with lettuce cups. Eat with your favorite friendly toppings (sauteed onions, avocado, etc.). This recipe is absolutely delicious with a nightshade free salsa from Juicing My MS. I altered the recipe a little for my needs. I added avocado, used only 2 radishes, a 1/4 red onion, and half a mango. Some raw chopped zucchini might be a tasty and nutrient dense addition too.
Need some freezer meals? Cook and season the meat, allow it to cool. Place in a ziplock bag and freeze for use later. Let me know what you think!
