What is Tajin?
Description
Discovering Tajin: A Flavorful Journey
Tajin has captured the hearts of many, whether you're a seasoned fan looking to explore new uses or eager to introduce this vibrant seasoning blend into your kitchen.
What is Tajin?
Tajin is the brand name for a Mexican seasoning blend made from chile peppers and lime. "Tajin isn't overly spicy but delivers a flavorful punch," says Carrillo Arronte, describing it as a mix of "chile peppers, salt, and dehydrated lime juice." Named after the archaeological site El Tajin in Veracruz, Mexico, it has become a staple in Mexican kitchens.
Taj-in originated in Guadalajara, Mexico, in 1985 with its flagship product, Taj-in Clasico Seasoning. Since then, the brand has expanded with items like Taj-in Mild Hot Sauce, Taj-in Fruity Chamoy Hot Sauce, Taj-in Habanero Seasoning, and more.
Tajin Ingredients
Taj-in Clasico Seasoning is made from a blend of dried chiles, including arbol, guajillo, and pasilla, along with dehydrated lime juice powder and sea salt, creating its signature flavor profile.
Creative Ways to Use Tajin
Taj-in is commonly sprinkled over fresh fruits and vegetables like carrots, jicama, and cucumber. However, Carrillo Arronte notes that its tangy and pungent flavor is ideal for more adventurous uses. Try using Taj-in as a marinade for roast chicken, a rub for shrimp, chicken, steak, or fish, or to add zest to roasted veggies or grilled corn. It also works wonderfully in dips such as hummus or guacamole. For a sweet twist, sprinkle Taj-in on fruity popsicles or sorbets like Watermelon, Chile, and Basil Ice Pops, or No-Churn Pineapple-Banana Sorbet. It can even be used to rim cocktail glasses, enhancing drinks like Micheladas, Margaritas, Smoky Bloody Marys, or Palomas with Grenadine.
Tajin on Fruit
In Mexico, Taj-in and lime juice over fresh fruit is a beloved snack, particularly in hot weather. "It's a common addition to children's school lunches, perfect for sprinkling over fruit or veggies," says Carrillo Arronte. Popular fruit choices include mango, watermelon, cantaloupe, honeydew, and pineapple. Pair Taj-in with chamoy—a sauce made from dried chilies, lime juice, and pickled fruits like mango or plum—for a flavorful kick.
Recipes Featuring Tajin
Mango Sorbet with Tequila
For a festive treat, serve small scoops of mango sorbet in shot glasses with a splash of gold tequila, then top with a sprinkle of Taj-in.
Mango Skewers with Chile-Lime Seasoning
Grilled mango gets a flavorful upgrade when paired with Taj-in. Simply sear the mango and sprinkle with the chile-lime seasoning for a summer-ready snack.
Chipotle Hummus with Tajin
Inspired by a Houston food truck, this Tex-Mex hummus gets a zesty twist with Taj-in, adding citrusy notes to its smoky flavors.
Mango Mez-Garita with Tajin Rim
In this Margarita variation, mezcal's smoky flavors shine alongside a Taj-in rim that adds a mildly spicy, tangy edge.
Fruity Guacamole
Taj-in elevates this guacamole made with grilled onion and pineapple, bringing out the herbaceous and floral notes of habanero peppers.
Kombucha-Marinated Fruit Salad-Stuffed Watermelon
This show-stopping fruit salad combines the zesty flavors of kombucha, chamoy, and Taj-in, making it a perfect dish for outdoor gatherings.
