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Spice Rub

A spice rub is a blend of ground spices and herbs, typically combined with salt, sugar, or ground chilies, used to impart flavor and create a crusty surface on food while cooking. Often used as a dry marinade, it is a popular choice for flavoring meats, poultry, seafood, and vegetables. Spice rubs provide a versatile and convenient alternative to traditional liquid marinades, making them a time-saving and flexible option for home cooks seeking creative alternatives in their meal preparation. Spice rubs come in a variety of flavors and styles, with classic combinations catering to specific regional cuisines or accommodating personal tastes. Pre-made blends are available for purchase, or home cooks can easily experiment by creating their own spice rubs for uniquely tailored flavor profiles. With a simplicity of application, spice rubs transform everyday dishes into gourmet masterpieces, allowing cooks of all skill levels to elevate their cooking experience effortlessly.
#45
IN SEASONINGS
250
CAL / 100G
$0.66
AVG / OZ
spice rub
100%
CARBS
0%
FAT
0%
PROTEIN
Spice Rub FAQ
Common questions around spice rubs often revolve around the right ratios of spices, the best way to apply them, and how to optimize the flavors. One common mistake is applying the rub too close to the start of cooking, which can cause the spices to burn, resulting in a bitter taste. To get the most flavor, it's generally recommended to apply the rub at least an hour before cooking. Some might even advise leaving it on overnight, allowing the flavors to deeply penetrate the meat. Most people don’t realize, but creating a wet 'paste' with some oil or juice and then applying it to the meat can promote better adhesion of the spice rub to the meat. When applying the rub to the meat, one should ensure that they cover all sides and gently press it to adhere well. Another tip is to start with a balance in spices, where no single flavor dominates, and then adjust according to your preference. Blending your spice mix and storing it in an airtight container can also help in retaining the flavor.
Should I rinse the spice rub off before cooking?
How much spice rub do I use per pound of meat?
Do I need to add oil or other wet ingredients to the spice rub?
Should I apply the rub to the meat just before cooking?
Can I use a spice rub on vegetables?
How long can I store my homemade spice rub?
Is it better to buy premade spice rubs or make my own?
Can I leave the spice rub on too long?
What spices are good to include in a spice rub?
Can I use a spice rub for smoking meat?
Expiration & Storage Tips
When does spice rub expire?
Unopened, a store-bought spice rub can last between 2-3 years. Just remember to check the printed date on the package. For homemade spice rubs, it's best to use the rub within 6 months while the spices are still potent. Once a spice rub has been opened, it's best used within 6 months to a year, depending on the freshness and quality of the individual spices in the rub. If it's been frozen, once defrosted it should be used within few weeks.
How do you tell if spice rub is bad?
You'll know that your spice rub has gone bad when the color fades and the aroma weakens. Fresh spice rubs are vibrant in color and have a strong, hearty smell. The key to recognizing when a spice rub has past its prime is in the aroma. If you give it a whiff and there's hardly any scent, or if it smells off, it's probably best to toss it. Also, if your spice rub has clumps or visible signs of moisture, it's probably gone bad.
Tips for storing spice rub to extend shelf life
• Always store your spice rubs in a cool, dry place. The pantry is perfect. On the counter under direct sunlight or near a heat source like the stove or oven is not ideal. • Use airtight containers for storage. This can be the container it came in if it's store-bought, or your own airtight containers if it's homemade. When storing, ensure the lid is always on tight to keep moisture and air out. • Consider purchasing smaller quantities of spice rubs, or making smaller batches of homemade rubs. This way, the spices will be fresher and more flavorful when you use them. • If you don’t think you’ll use the rub in a while, you can freeze it in an airtight container or freezer bag. Just remember to label it with the freeze date!
EXPIRES WITHIN
2 - 3.6
YEARS
Health Info
Macros
3g
CARBS
0g
FAT
0g
PROTEIN
Allowed on these diets
LOW FAT
VEGETARIAN
KETO
PALEO
WHOLE 30
MEDITERRANEAN
LOW CARB
VEGAN
LACTOSE FREE
GLUTEN FREE
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