Are you tired of the same old boring BBQ rub? Craving a flavor adventure that's both sweet and spicy, with a hint of unexpected deliciousness? Then get ready to be amazed by this Hot Honey Dry Rub recipe! This easy-to-make blend transforms even the simplest cuts of meat into unforgettable culinary masterpieces. Perfect for quick weeknight dinners or impressive weekend feasts, this recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. It's one of those easy recipes that delivers maximum flavor with minimal effort, making it ideal for busy cooks who still appreciate homemade cooking and delicious dishes.
Ingredients:
- 1/4 cup brown sugar, packed
- 2 tablespoons smoked paprika
- 2 tablespoons chili powder
- 1 tablespoon garlic powder
- 1 tablespoon onion powder
- 1 tablespoon ground cumin
- 1 tablespoon hot honey (adjust to your spice preference)
- 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for extra heat)
- 1 teaspoon sea salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
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Combine the magic: In a small bowl, whisk together the brown sugar, smoked paprika, chili powder, garlic powder, onion powder, cumin, hot honey, cayenne pepper (if using), salt, and black pepper. Make sure everything is well mixed for an even flavor distribution.
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Prep your protein: Pat your chosen meat – chicken, pork, beef, or even tofu – dry with paper towels. This ensures the rub adheres properly.
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Rub it in: Generously apply the hot honey dry rub to all sides of the meat, pressing gently to ensure it sticks. Don't be shy with the seasoning!
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Let it rest (or not!): For best results, let the meat rest, covered, in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes, or even overnight, to allow the flavors to meld. This step is particularly helpful for tougher cuts of meat. However, if you're short on time, you can skip this and proceed directly to cooking.
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Cook to perfection: Cook your meat according to your preferred method – grilling, baking, smoking, or pan-frying. Internal temperature is key to ensuring food safety, so use a meat thermometer to check for doneness.
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Rest and serve: Once cooked, let the meat rest for a few minutes before slicing and serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender and flavorful final product.
Cooking Tips for Best Results:
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Adjust the heat: The beauty of this recipe is its customizability. Adjust the amount of hot honey and cayenne pepper to create your perfect level of spiciness.
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Experiment with other spices: Feel free to experiment with other spices to customize the flavor profile. A pinch of oregano, thyme, or even a touch of cinnamon can add interesting depth.
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Make it ahead: The dry rub can be made ahead of time and stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a month.
Variations:
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Sweet and smoky: For a sweeter and smokier rub, increase the brown sugar and add a teaspoon of liquid smoke.
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Spicy and tangy: Add a tablespoon of lime juice or apple cider vinegar for a zesty kick.
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Citrus twist: Incorporate the zest of an orange or lemon for a bright, refreshing element.
Nutritional Information (per tablespoon of rub, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 40
- Carbohydrates: 8g
- Sugar: 6g
- Protein: 1g
- Fat: 1g
This hot honey dry rub recipe is a simple yet effective way to elevate your everyday meals. It's a perfect example of how easy recipes can be both healthy and delicious, making it an ideal addition to your quick dinner ideas repertoire. Enjoy!