Barbecue Dry Rub
A smoky-sweet blend of pantry spices that builds a deep, caramelized crust on grilled meats.
Dietary
Vegan, Vegetarian, Pescatarian, Wheat free, Dairy free, Nut free, Halal, Kosher
This all-purpose barbecue dry rub balances brown sugar sweetness with smoked paprika, chili powder, and a touch of cayenne for gentle heat. Rub it onto ribs, brisket, chicken, or pork shoulder well before cooking so the salt and sugar can penetrate the meat and form a flavorful bark. It keeps well in an airtight jar, making it easy to have on hand for weekend grilling.
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup packed brown sugar
- 1/4 cup smoked paprika
- 2 tablespoons chili powder
- 2 tablespoons kosher salt
- 2 tablespoons coarsely ground black pepper
- 1 tablespoon garlic powder
- 1 tablespoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon dried mustard powder
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon ground celery seed
Method
-
In a medium bowl, combine the brown sugar, smoked paprika, chili powder, kosher salt, and black pepper.
-
Add the garlic powder, onion powder, cumin, mustard powder, cayenne, and celery seed.
-
Whisk or stir thoroughly until the brown sugar is evenly distributed and no clumps remain.
-
Transfer the rub to an airtight jar or container, pressing out any lumps of sugar with the back of a spoon.
-
Store in a cool, dry place for up to 3 months, and use generously to coat meat 30 minutes to overnight before grilling or smoking.
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Barbecue Dry Rub
This all-purpose barbecue dry rub balances brown sugar sweetness with smoked paprika, chili powder, and a touch of cayenne for gentle heat. Rub it onto ribs, brisket, chicken, or pork shoulder well before cooking so the salt and sugar can penetrate the meat and form a flavorful bark. It keeps well in an airtight jar, making it easy to have on hand for weekend grilling.
5 min 16 oz 22 cal
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup packed brown sugar
- 1/4 cup smoked paprika
- 2 tablespoons chili powder
- 2 tablespoons kosher salt
- 2 tablespoons coarsely ground black pepper
- 1 tablespoon garlic powder
- 1 tablespoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon dried mustard powder
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon ground celery seed

Method
- 1
In a medium bowl, combine the brown sugar, smoked paprika, chili powder, kosher salt, and black pepper.
- 2
Add the garlic powder, onion powder, cumin, mustard powder, cayenne, and celery seed.
- 3
Whisk or stir thoroughly until the brown sugar is evenly distributed and no clumps remain.
- 4
Transfer the rub to an airtight jar or container, pressing out any lumps of sugar with the back of a spoon.
- 5
Store in a cool, dry place for up to 3 months, and use generously to coat meat 30 minutes to overnight before grilling or smoking.