ASK PAT: Spend a little time in the kitchen and save money on entree mixes

By: By Pat Koch Special to the Star and Enterprise | SCNOW
Published: October 20, 2009

Today’s recipes are for two entre mixes: spaghetti sauce mix and taco spice mix.

Spaghetti Herb Mix

1/2 cup garlic powder
1/2 cup onion powder
1/2 cup dried oregano
3 tablespoons dried basil
3 tablespoons dried thyme
3 tablespoons salt
2 tablespoons sugar

Combine all ingredients and store in airtight container. To use, blend 16 oz. tomatoes with four tablespoons of the mix. Add cooked ground meat, if desired. Serve over cooked spaghetti noodles.

Yield: 10 servings or uses
Cost analysis:(4 tablespoons/1 pkg.) Homemade = $.41 Store-bought = $1.99
Source: Miserly Moms

Taco Spice Mix

1/4 cup red pepper flakes or chili powder
1/ cup ground cumin
1/4 cup oregano
2 tablespoons cayenne pepper
1/4 cup garlic powder
1/4 cup onion powder
3 tablespoons salt

Combine all ingredients and store in airtight container. To use, add two tablespoons to one pound of ground meat. Mix well and then cook. For dips, add two tablespoons to one cup sour cream or plain yogurt.

Yield: 12 servings or uses
Cost analysis:(2 tablespoons/1 pkg.) Homemade = $.32 Store-bought = $.99
Source: Miserly Moms