Elevate your grilling game with this versatile homemade barbecue rub, a perfect balance of smoky, sweet, and spicy flavors! Featuring brown sugar as the star ingredient for a hint of caramelized sweetness, this easy-to-make rub combines pantry staples like paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and chili powder for a bold and savory punch. A touch of cayenne pepper and dried mustard adds a kick of heat and tang, while ground cumin lends an earthy depth. Ready in just 5 minutes, this all-purpose dry rub is perfect for seasoning everything from ribs and brisket to chicken, pork, or even tofu. Store it in an airtight container, and you’ll have a go-to spice blend ready to transform any backyard barbecue into an unforgettable feast.
In a medium-sized mixing bowl, combine the brown sugar, paprika, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, chili powder, cayenne pepper, dried mustard, and ground cumin.
Use a whisk or fork to thoroughly mix all the ingredients until well combined and no lumps remain.
Taste and adjust any spices according to personal preference (e.g., add more cayenne for extra heat or more brown sugar for sweetness).
Store the barbecue rub in an airtight container or jar. Keep it in a cool, dry place, and it will last for several months.
To use, generously sprinkle and rub the mixture onto your desired protein, such as chicken, pork, beef, or even tofu. Let it sit for at least 30 minutes or overnight for deeper flavor penetration before cooking.
Calories |
709 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 3.9 g | 5% | |
| Saturated Fat | 0.6 g | 3% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 0.0 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 0 mg | 0% | |
| Sodium | 14319 mg | 623% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 173.2 g | 63% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 11.5 g | 41% | |
| Total Sugars | 142.8 g | ||
| Protein | 6.2 g | 12% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.0 mcg | 0% | |
| Calcium | 255 mg | 20% | |
| Iron | 9.1 mg | 51% | |
| Potassium | 841 mg | 18% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.