Are you ready to elevate your barbecue game? Forget store-bought rubs and embrace the smoky, sweet, and tangy magic of a homemade Carolina BBQ rub. This easy recipe is perfect for beginners and seasoned pitmasters alike, delivering incredible flavor with minimal effort. Get ready to impress your friends and family with this delicious, homemade spice blend that's guaranteed to become your new go-to for ribs, chicken, pork, and more! It's a fantastic addition to your collection of quick dinner ideas and healthy meals.
Ingredients:
This Carolina BBQ rub recipe uses readily available ingredients, making it a perfect choice for your next homemade cooking adventure.
- 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
- 1/4 cup paprika (sweet or smoked, depending on your preference)
- 2 tablespoons garlic powder
- 2 tablespoons onion powder
- 1 tablespoon black pepper, freshly ground
- 1 tablespoon chili powder
- 1 tablespoon ground cumin
- 1 tablespoon salt
- 1 tablespoon mustard powder
- 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper (or more, to taste)
Instructions:
This recipe is incredibly easy to follow; even those new to food recipes will find success.
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Combine Ingredients: In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together the brown sugar, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, chili powder, cumin, salt, mustard powder, and cayenne pepper until evenly distributed.
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Mix Thoroughly: Ensure all the spices are well combined to create a consistent color and texture.
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Store Properly: Transfer the rub to an airtight container. This keeps it fresh and ready for use whenever your barbecue cravings hit. You can store it at room temperature for several months.
Cooking Tips for Amazing BBQ:
- Adjust the Spice Level: Feel free to adjust the amount of cayenne pepper to control the heat level. If you prefer a milder rub, start with less cayenne and add more to taste.
- Apply Generously: Don't be shy with the rub! A generous coating ensures maximum flavor penetration. Pat the meat dry before applying the rub for optimal adhesion.
- Let it Rest: Allow the meat to rest for at least 30 minutes (or even overnight for deeper flavor) after applying the rub before cooking. This allows the spices to penetrate the meat, enhancing the overall taste.
- Experiment with Meats: This versatile rub works wonderfully on various meats such as pork ribs, chicken, brisket, and even vegetables.
Delicious Variations:
- Sweet & Smoky: Increase the brown sugar and use smoked paprika for a sweeter, smokier profile.
- Spicy Kick: Add a teaspoon or two of smoked paprika and a pinch of chipotle powder for a fiery kick.
- Citrus Zest: Incorporate the zest of one orange or lemon for a bright and refreshing twist.
Nutritional Information (per tablespoon):
This is an approximate value and will vary depending on the specific ingredients used.
- Calories: Approximately 25-30
- Fat: Approximately 0-1g
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 6-7g
- Protein: Approximately 1g
This Carolina BBQ rub is a true game-changer, adding depth and complexity to all your favorite barbecued dishes. From easy recipes for busy weeknights to impressive meals for special occasions, this homemade rub delivers delicious results every time. Give it a try and experience the delicious difference!