Simone Biles, the world’s most decorated gymnast, likes to spice up her margarita with a little bit of Tajín. Megan Thee Stallion is also a fan of the spice blend. So much so that she gave it a shoutout in her 2020 hit “Don’t Stop,” rapping, “Use the Tajín when I’m eating a mango.”
And Selena Gomez makes sure to pack a tiny Tajín in her tiny purse, alongside her Rare Beauty makeup essentials, to ensure that when the urge for spice arises, she’ll be ready to rock.
But the best thing about Tajín? You don’t have to be a celebrity to put the tangy spice on just about anything from fruit to nuts.
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The magic of Tajín
Tajín is a seasoning as much as it is a cultural phenomenon with deep roots in Mexican culinary traditions. Created in 1985 by Horacio Fernandez, Tajín was inspired by the classic Mexican dish “salsa en polvo” (powdered sauce), which his grandmother used to make.
Fernandez sought to replicate the flavors of his grandmother’s recipe but in a more accessible, shelf-stable form. The result was a unique blend of mild chili peppers, sea salt, and dehydrated lime juice that became known as Tajín. The name? It comes from the ancient city of El Tajín, a pre-Columbian archaeological site in Veracruz, Mexico.
The spice blend quickly gained popularity in Mexico for its ability to enhance the flavors of fresh fruits and vegetables, a common practice in Mexican street food. Its popularity soon spread across the border, finding a receptive audience in the United States, particularly in areas with large Mexican-American communities.
Today, Tajín comes in various formats (such as tubs for beverage rims, travel-friendly minis, liquid hot sauce and chamoy, and candies) and a few flavors (like habanero and a sweeter “twist” version). And while it continues to be a staple in Mexican cuisine, it has also become a favorite among food enthusiasts, celebrities, and chefs worldwide.
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What’s in Tajín?
While the flavor of original Tajín is complex, the ingredients are fairly simple and include three key elements:
1Chili peppers
The primary ingredient in Tajín is a mix of mild chili peppers, typically a blend of guajillo, pasilla, and ancho peppers. These chilies provide a subtle heat that enhances, rather than overpowers, the natural flavors of the food it’s sprinkled on.
2Dehydrated lime juice
The lime component is what truly sets Tajín apart from other spice blends. The dehydrated lime juice adds a bright, citrusy flavor for that signature tang.
3Sea Salt
Sea salt adds a savory counterpoint to Tajín, balancing the heat from the chili peppers and the acidity from the lime while letting each element shine.
How to use Tajín at home
Tajín’s versatility means it can be used in countless ways to elevate your plant-based meals. Below are some creative and delicious ways to incorporate Tajín into your everyday life.
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1Fruit enhancer
One of the simplest and most popular ways to use Tajín is by sprinkling it on fresh fruit. The combination of sweet, juicy fruit with the tangy, spicy notes of Tajín is a match made in heaven. Try it on watermelon, mango, pineapple, citrus fruits like oranges and grapefruit, or even more tropical fruits, such as guava, coconut, and cherimoya. Pour a bit of Tajín chamoy (the brand’s take on the classic sauce with mild chili peppers, lime juice, sea salt, and a bit of apricot) to a depth of flavor.
2Avocado toast
Avocado toast is a plant-based favorite, and adding Tajín takes it to the next level. Spread mashed avocado on your favorite toasted bread, sprinkle with Tajín, and finish with a squeeze of fresh lime juice for a quick and flavorful meal.
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3Popcorn seasoning
We love to season popcorn heavy-handedly with everything from miso caramel butter to cheesy nooch. To give your popcorn a spicy twist, add a dash (or more) of Tajín. It’s a perfect snack for movie nights and is sure to be a hit with anyone who loves a little kick in their snacks.
4Roasted vegetables
Just like Tajín is great for leveling up fruit, it can add a new dimension to your roasted veggies. Toss your vegetables in olive oil and Tajín before roasting them in the oven. This works particularly well with root vegetables such as sweet potatoes, carrots, and beets, as well as with cauliflower and Brussels sprouts. A sprinkle of Tajín on raw vegetables, like cucumbers and peppers, is pretty great, too.
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5Tajín-rimmed beverages
Add some flair to your non-alcoholic drinks by rimming the glass with Tajín. Whether you’re making a spicy margarita, Bloody Mary, or a simple limeade, the Tajín rim will add an extra layer of flavor and make your drink feel festive.
6Tajín-spiced dips
We’re always on the lookout for new ways to enjoy hummus or guac and adding Tajín is a way to give the classic dips a new life. The combination of creamy dip with the spicy, tangy notes of Tajín is perfect for dipping vegetables or spreading on a sandwich.
7Tajín-roasted nuts
Grab your favorite nut mix, melt a bit of vegan butter, and toss it together with a generous dose of Tajín. Spread everything evenly on a baking sheet and pop it in the oven for a spicy, protein-packed snack.
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8Grilled corn on the cob
Mexican street corn, or elote, is traditionally made with mayonnaise, cheese, and chili powder. For a plant-based version, brush grilled corn with vegan mayo, sprinkle with Tajín, and finish with a squeeze of lime juice. It’s a quick dish that’s both simple and satisfying.
For more plant-based stories like this, read:
Anna Starostinetskaya is the Senior News Editor at VegNews and is always keeping an eye on all things vegan in her home city of San Francisco, CA and everywhere else.
Here at VegNews, we live and breathe the plant-based lifestyle, and only recommend products we feel make our lives amazing. Occasionally, articles may include shopping links where we might earn a small commission, but in no way does this effect the editorial integrity of VegNews.
