Instructions: In a 1/3- to 1/2-cup tall, narrow clear jar, layer the following, contrasting light layers with dark: chili powder, cumin, cayenne, oregano, onion salt, and garlic powder.

To use, shake jar or stir spices until blended. Use to season cooked dried beans (home-cooked or canned), soups, and stews; or rub onto meats, seafood, or poultry to pan-fry, roast, or barbecue.

This recipe yields about 7 tablespoons.

Comments: Layered in clear jars, this seasoning blend shows off the natural hues of its ingredients. Each layer, however, contributes its own personality to the mix.

Tie on a tag or glue on a label with suggestions for how to use the seasoning mixture, as noted with the recipe. All the cook needs to do is give the bottle a shake or stir. If you want to make larger amounts, simply multiply the ingredients.

Yield: 7 tablespoons

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