Name: All-Purpose BBQ Rub
Yield: Makes about 1/3 cup
Ingredients: 4 teaspoons brown sugar; 4 teaspoons paprika; 2 teaspoons dry mustard; 2 teaspoons ground black pepper; 2 teaspoons table salt; 1 teaspoon onion powder; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon ground cumin; 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper

Why This Recipe Works

We wanted a dry spice rub for grilling and barbecue that was suitable for a wide range of meats and poultry. For the base of our All-Purpose BBQ Rub recipe, we used a blend of brown sugar and paprika. Their sweet flavor and vibrant color complemented a variety of other flavors and tempered the spiciness perfectly. Onion and garlic powders added deep flavor; fresh garlic tends to burn and turn bitter in a rub. Spiciness for our All-Purpose BBQ Rub came from a three-pronged attack: dry mustard, black pepper, and cayenne pepper.