A great BBQ spice rub its usually a blend of spicy elements, both savory and sweet.  The flavour balance is both aromatic and earthy and often will have quite a complex profile.

Using spice rubs for BBQ’s

Spice Rubs are a fantastic way to enhance the flavour of any protein and vegetables.  Most people think they are purely for meat and often only consider them for steak.  Yes, OK, if you’re a big steak fan then a juicy meaty steak nestling in a beautiful spicy rub is really perfection in itself as it cooks on the BBQ.  The aroma is intoxicating and the flavour “out of this world”…. right, I get it!

But, other proteins such as fish, chicken or pork are also really good contenders for a wonderful spicy rub.  Let’s not forget those who choose a meat-free diet, vegetables are also hot contenders for a Bush BBQ spicy rub.  Even if you are a meat eater, trying some vegetables encased in spice mixes really are a surprisingly good option to get your veggie uptake up and running, ie they’re really good for you!!!

Spice Rubs for Proteins

The BBQ is a fantastic way to enhance the flavour of your grilled meats.  Some key points to consider when preparing meats using spice rubs.

Make sure to use some kitchen paper to pat dry the meat, this will help the rub to stick to the meat much better, you could also used a little oil rubbed into the meat before adding the spice rub.  Massage the spice in on all sides, including the edges, to ensure an even coasting.

To get the best out of your spice rub, once its been massaged into the meat, leave in the fridge from 1-2 hours, I’ve often left it overnight, the flavours really infuse and really ensure a good absorption.  Allow the meat to come to room temperature before cooking, this is actually important, it enables the meat to cook evenly.

Spice Rubs for Vegetables

Spice rubs really elevate the experience for vegetarian and vegan dishes.

Choose the right vegetables

Some vegetables really work well with spice rubs because the are able to absorb the spicy flavours.  Eggplant, zucchini, bell peppers, cauliflower, sweet potatoes and even mushrooms taste fantastic on the BBQ with spice rubs.  See this delicious recipe for vegetable burgers, a great option for your BBQ experience.

Sprinkle the rub over the vegetable and massage in to create an even coating to ensure consistent flavour of the vegetable.  The heat helps to caramelize the spices which really adds to the flavour.

Some other ways to enjoy your Bush BBQ spice rubs

As well as using on the BBQ, vegetables with spice rubs roast really well.

Stir fries:  just sprinkle a little over your stir fry for a spicy “kick”

Soups and Stews:  it goes without saying that a sprinkle of your favourite BBQ rub added to any of these dishes can make your soups and stews much more exciting

Salads:  Create a dressing by combining some Bush BBQ spice rub with olive oil, lemon or lime juice and a touch of honey.  Drizzle over salad, giving it a WOW factor.

Marinades:  Mix some spice rub into yoghurt with a little olive oil to create a marinade for both meat and vegetables, adjust to suit yourself for a wonderful balance of heat and flavour.  Cook on the BBQ, grill or pan fry.

Experiment with flavours

This is always the fun part.  You might have a favourite smokey BBQ spice rub, be bold, be brave and try some new options, you might want more chilli, you might want it to be a bit more aromatic, maybe add some cinnamon.  For those who love the flavour of ginger, it could fit in somewhere into your spice mix…give it a try!

What about popcorn, sprinkle your loved BBQ spice mix over freshly cooked popcorn for a savoury edge.

Make a start and enjoy your cooking.  With the addition of BBQ spice rubs to really turn a simple basic meal into the exotic.  Happy Cooking!!