Homemade Sweet Barbecue Rub

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The weather is finally getting warmer. Summer is right around the corner, and you know what that means. It’s time to fire up that grill and barbecue some tasty grub. Every good cut of meat deserves a great rub. When it comes to barbecue rubs, I have yet to find a store-bought version that pleases my palate perfectly. Don’t get me wrong, I’ve had some great ones, but there was always a little something lacking. I decided to make my own one day, and let me tell you, I’m never going back! I love making my own spice mixes. I get to add exactly what ingredients I want, and just the right amounts of each, to create that perfect flavor.


Ingredients:

  • 1 cup brown sugar
  • 4 Tbsp kosher salt
  • 4 Tbsp paprika
  • 2 Tbsp chili powder
  • 1 Tbsp garlic powder
  • 1 Tbsp onion powder
  • 1 Tbsp black pepper
  • 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper (optional)

Preparation:

  • Mix all ingredients together well. I like to use a whisk and a medium to large mixing bowl.
  • Store in an airtight container, or just use an empty rub container like I do.

I like to use barbecue rub on more than just the traditional (and super tasty) barbecue meats like pork, ribs, brisket, and chicken. I also use this on steak, fish, turkey, and vegetables. It delivers a sweet/salty/spicy kick to pretty much any dish. This isn’t at all fancy. It’s very simple, in fact. But sometimes, less is more, right? This is exactly what I look for in a great barbecue rub, and I hope you agree! But, please feel free to add more or fewer ingredients to create your perfect rub recipe. That’s what this is all about, after all – experimenting, creating, and finding your own signature style to please your unique palate.

(You beautiful, little snowflakes. 😉)

What do you think?