Introduction to Making Your Own BBQ Seasoning Blend
Barbecue, also known simply as BBQ, refers to the slow cooking and smoking of meat and vegetables. BBQ cooking originated in the Caribbean, but has become popular worldwide for its robust flavors. An essential component of great BBQ is the seasoning rub or blend that is used to flavor the food before, during, and after cooking. Store-bought BBQ seasonings can be full of artificial ingredients and fillers. Learning how to make your own BBQ seasoning blend at home allows you to control the ingredients for a natural flavor boost. Plus, you can customize the blend to suit your tastes. Follow this guide to become a BBQ seasoning master.
Reasons to Create Your Own BBQ Seasoning
Making DIY BBQ seasoning provides many benefits:
- Customize the flavor profile – Cater the blend to your specific taste preferences by adjusting the herbs and spices included. You can make it sweet, spicy, tangy, smoky or savory – the options are endless.
- Control quality of ingredients – With a homemade blend, you can avoid unwanted additives like MSG, preservatives and anti-caking agents. Use all-natural ingredients for superior flavor and nutrition.
- Save money – Pre-mixed BBQ seasoning can be expensive, especially for the high-quality options. Making it at home costs just a fraction of the price.
- Make in bulk – Mix up a large batch to have handy whenever you want to add that signature BBQ taste. Lasts for months when stored properly.
- Experiment and get creative – Try out different herb and spice combinations each time to discover new favorite flavors.
- Perfect for gifts – Share the BBQ love by giving homemade blends as gifts for birthdays, Father’s Day or any occasion.
With the right steps, creating your own signature BBQ dry rub or wet sauce is easy. Keep reading to become an expert seasoning maker.
How to Make Basic BBQ Seasoning from Scratch
Making barbecue seasoning is a simple process that involves combining salt, spices and herbs in the right proportions. Here is an overview of the basic steps:
Ingredients Needed
- Salt – Forms the base. Kosher or sea salt is best rather than table salt.
- Sugar – Brown sugar adds sweetness and enhances caramelization during cooking.
- Spices – Common BBQ spices include garlic powder, onion powder, chili powder, paprika and cayenne pepper.
- Herbs – Oregano, thyme, rosemary, basil and parsley provide aromatic flavor.
- Pepper – Freshly ground black pepper is preferable over pre-ground.
- Extras – Ingredients like mustard, citrus zest or liquid smoke (optional).
Mixing Process
- Gather spice ingredients and measuring tools. Use measuring spoons for small amounts.
- Combine all dry ingredients in a bowl and stir thoroughly with a whisk or fork.
- Rub the blend between your fingers to break up any clumps.
- Transfer to an airtight container like a mason jar.
- Label jar with contents and date. Store in a cool, dark place.
That’s it! Now you have your own signature BBQ seasoning to use on everything from grilled chicken, pork and beef to vegetables. Customize it to suit your taste by adjusting levels of spiciness, saltiness, sweetness, etc. The options are infinite.
Tips for the Best Homemade BBQ Seasoning
Follow these handy tips for success when making your own barbecue spice blend:
- Use fresh spices – The flavor will be most vibrant. Replace spices annually or when they no longer smell strong.
- Measure accurately – Use measuring spoons for small amounts. Avoid “eyeballing” portions.
- Mind layering – Build flavor by adding spices in stages from top to bottom. Put salt on the bottom and delicate herbs on top.
- Mix thoroughly – Use a whisk or fork to distribute ingredients evenly and break up lumps.
- Adjust to taste – Tweak the proportions as you go based on personal preferences.
- Consider texture – Include spices with diverse textures like coarse peppercorns and fine powder.
- Jar appropriately – Use containers like mason jars or shaker bottles for storage. Keep away from light, heat and moisture.
- Label properly – Note the date and contents. Use within 3-6 months for optimal freshness.
- Experiment boldly – Don’t be afraid to try unconventional ingredients like coffee, nuts or citrus zest.
Following these best practices will help you make outstanding DIY BBQ rubs and sauces every time. Have fun with it!
How to Make Specific Types of BBQ Seasoning
You can create all kinds of specialty barbecue seasoning blends by modifying ingredients. Here are recipes for popular varieties:
Basic Barbecue Rub
This all-purpose blend works with beef, pork, chicken, etc.
Ingredients:
- 1/4 cup paprika
- 2 tablespoons salt
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon garlic powder
- 1 tablespoon onion powder
- 1 tablespoon chili powder
- 1 tablespoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
Instructions:
- Combine all ingredients in a small bowl and mix thoroughly.
- Generously apply rub on meat before grilling or smoking.
- Store in an airtight container up to 6 months.
Texas-Style Brisket Rub
Add smoky flavor reminiscent of authentic Texas barbecue.
Ingredients:
- 1/4 cup salt
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons black pepper
- 1 tablespoon onion powder
- 1 tablespoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon liquid smoke (optional)
Instructions:
- Mix together all ingredients until uniformly combined.
- Coat brisket generously on all sides.
- Refrigerate 4-12 hours to let flavors penetrate.
- Smoke brisket according to your usual method.
Coffee BBQ Rub
The coffee adds richness and intensified savory flavor.
Ingredients:
- 1/4 cup finely ground coffee
- 2 tablespoons paprika
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon salt
- 1 tablespoon chili powder
- 1 tablespoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
Instructions:
- Thoroughly combine all ingredients in a small bowl.
- Apply liberally to beef, pork or chicken before grilling.
- Allow to marinate for 30 minutes up to overnight.
- Grill meat as desired, adding more rub during cooking.
Jamaican Jerk Seasoning
Pack this Caribbean-inspired blend on chicken or seafood.
Ingredients:
- 2 tablespoons thyme
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon garlic powder
- 1 tablespoon onion powder
- 1 tablespoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon salt
- 2 teaspoons ground allspice
- 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
Instructions:
- Mix all ingredients together in a small bowl.
- Use to generously season meat or fish.
- For extra flavor, let marinate up to 24 hours before cooking.
- Grill for that tasty Jamaican jerk flavor.
Get creative and make your own signature blends for unforgettable barbecue flavors!
Frequently Asked Questions About Homemade BBQ Seasoning
What is the best way to apply BBQ seasoning?
Most barbecue experts recommend applying dry seasoning rubs generously all over the meat at least 30 minutes to up to 12 hours before cooking. This allows time for the flavors to penetrate. You can add more seasoning during cooking too for further flavor infusion.
How long does homemade BBQ seasoning last?
Properly stored in an airtight container away from moisture, heat and sunlight, homemade barbecue seasoning can last 3-6 months. Over time, the spices will lose potency. For maximum freshness and flavor, use within 3 months.
Can you use BBQ seasoning on vegetables?
Yes, homemade or store-bought barbecue seasoning blends pair deliciously with vegetables too! Coat sliced vegetables like zucchini, onions, mushrooms, corn on the cob and more with your favorite rub before grilling. The spices add wonderful flavor to veggies.
What’s the difference between a dry rub and BBQ sauce?
Dry rubs are spice blends made of salt, peppers, herbs and other seasonings. They are rubbed directly onto meat before cooking. BBQ sauces are wet marinades or finishing sauces brushed on during or after cooking. Use one or both!
What is a good homemade gift idea using BBQ seasoning?
Homemade BBQ rubs make fantastic gifts for the grill masters in your life! Package your special blend in containers like mason jars. Include recipes and grilling tips. Add fun extras like barbecue sauce or meat thermometers for a complete gift set!
Conclusion
Creating your own sensational barbecue seasoning blend is simple and fun. You can customize it to match your tastes exactly and control the quality of the ingredients. Use basic herbs, spices and salt for an all-purpose blend. Or get inspired by regional styles like Texas brisket rubs or Jamaican jerk seasoning. The possibilities are endless for making mouthwatering BBQ.
With these tips and recipes, you can now confidently mix up flavorful spice blends for unforgettable grilled meats, fish and veggies. So fire up that grill and get ready to become the MVP of your next cookout with your signature homemade barbecue seasoning!