This all-purpose dry BBQ rub is perfect for smoked pulled pork, chicken, beef, and even vegetables! Make a large batch so you always have some handy for smoking and grilling.
Whether you’re a seasoned grill aficionado or a rookie with ambition, you know that a great BBQ rub is the key to elevating your backyard barbecues from good to downright legendary.
That’s why I’m sharing my personal BBQ spice mix. It’s the result of countless hours of grilling and smoking every kind of meat under the sun. It is the perfect balance of smoky, sweet, and savory – resulting in a harmonious explosion of flavor with every bite.
My favorite part about this bbq seasoning is that it isn’t a one-trick pony. It’s incredibly versatile and goes well on everything from chicken to pork, ribs, steak, and even vegetables. It will have your guests licking their fingers and begging for more no matter what you use it on!
If you’re looking for a more unique flavor profile, try a bbq rub with coffee instead – it’s particularly good on chicken and steak.
Ingredients
- Paprika
- Chili Powder
- Brown Sugar
- Salt
- Black Pepper
- Cayenne Pepper
- Cumin
- Onion Powder
- Garlic Powder
Tips
- Make sure to break up lumps really well with a fork. If your mixture is still lumpy, use a food processor or blender to make it smooth.
- For best flavor, only use fresh spices that have been opened in the last six months. Spices start to lose their flavor over time.
- Adjust the level of cayenne to your personal heat preference. Reduce to a 1 tablespoon for very mild, or double to 4 tablespoons if you want it spicy.
Recipes to use BBQ rub in
This is my absolute favorite bbq rub to use on pulled pork.
Try it on grilled or smoked burgers or hot dog burnt ends at your next barbecue.
It’s also great on vegetables. I recommend using it on smoked corn or potatoes.
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BBQ Rub
Ingredients
- 1/3 Cup Brown Sugar
- 1/3 Cup Chili Powder
- 1/4 Cup Paprika
- 1/4 Cup Salt
- 3 Tablespoons Black Pepper
- 2 Tablespoons Cayenne
- 2 Tablespoons Cumin
- 2 Tablespoons Garlic Powder
- 1 Tablespoon Onion Powder
Instructions
- Add all ingredients to a bowl and blend well together with a fork, breaking up any lumps. Store in an airtight container until ready to use, up to 1 year.
Karen says
We used this on chicken all summer long and it was really good. We’ll definitely be making another batch in the spring.