Why Some People Swear By BBQ Rubs
Try using BBQ rubs instead of sauce for a new taste Saturday, June 02, 2018
BBQ rubs are a perfect alternative for those who don't care for their meat smothered in sauce. BBQ rubs can impart a lot of flavor to meat, but since they are dry, it's less messy. BBQ rubs can be sweet, salty, hot, or mild, and are easy to make, so you can come up with your own special blend.
Basic BBQ Rubs
BBQ rubs are usually dry, although they can be wet, or paste-like. Generally you spread them all over the meat and then grill as usual. Some rubs are better if you let the meat sit for a while before grilling, so it can absorb the flavor.
Be careful with recipes containing sugar -- don't cook over a high heat or the sugar will burn. If the rub also contains water, it will keep it from burning as easily, but burnt sugar is bitter, so watch it.
All Purpose BBQ Rub
This is one of those BBQ rubs that you can mix in a big batch and use with anything. After you make it the first time, start changing the proportions or ingredients to develop your own special blend. Just combine the ingredients and store in a dry place.
8 tablespoons paprika
6 tablespoons garlic powder
6 tablespoons salt
5 tablespoons black pepper
3 tablespoons cayenne
3 tablespoons onion powder
2 tablespoons dried oregano
2 tablespoons dried thyme
Caribbean Jerk Rub
BBQ rubs from the Caribbean are sweet and spicy, and known as jerk seasoning. If you've ever eaten at Jamaican restaurant, this is what you had. This tastes especially good on chicken.
1 tablespoon onion flakes
1 tablespoon onion powder
2 teaspoons sugar
2 teaspoons ground thyme
2 teaspoons salt
2 teaspoon dried chives
1 teaspoon fresh black pepper
1 teaspoon cayenne
1 teaspoon allspice
1/2 teaspoon nutmeg
1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
Kansas City Style Ribs
BBQ rubs are the key to authentic KC ribs. Use this while they are slow cooking, then add a Kansas City style BBQ sauce, and you'll be in heaven!
1/2 cup brown sugar
1/4 cup paprika
1 tablespoon black pepper
1 tablespoon chili powder
1 tablespoon garlic powder
1 tablespoon onion powder
1 tablespoon salt
1 teaspoon cayenne pepper
Prime Rib Rub
This is a special rub that falls into the category of wet BBQ rubs. The olive oil holds all the flavors together and adds a lot of moisture to the meat. Puree all the ingredients in the blender, then rub it on and let it sit for a few minutes before slow cooking the prime rib to tender perfection.
4 tablespoons olive oil
2 tablespoons fresh basil
2 tablespoons fresh oregano
2 tablespoons fresh parsley
2 tablespoons fresh rosemary
1 tablespoon chopped garlic
1-1/2 tablespoons seasoned salt
1 tablespoon fresh black pepper
BBQ Rubs are fun to experiment with since they can pack so much flavor. There are special BBQ rubs for all cuisines and types of meat, so if these are something you enjoy using, don't be afraid to branch out.
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