A good barbecue rub can make or break a dish. If you're looking for a rub that is savory and slightly sweet, then look no further than the Carolina BBQ rub. This rub is perfect for pork, chicken, and even beef. The best part is that it's easy to make with ingredients that you probably already have on hand.
Ingredients
The ingredients for the Carolina BBQ rub are simple and easy to find. You will need:
1/4 cup brown sugar
1/4 cup paprika
2 tablespoons kosher salt
2 tablespoons black pepper
2 tablespoons chili powder
1 tablespoon garlic powder
1 tablespoon onion powder
1 tablespoon cumin
1 teaspoon cayenne pepper
Brown Sugar
The brown sugar in this rub provides a slightly sweet flavor that balances out the savory and spicy ingredients. If you don't have brown sugar, you can substitute it with white sugar or honey.
Paprika
Paprika is a key ingredient in this rub. It provides a deep, smoky flavor that is essential to any barbecue rub. If you prefer a spicier rub, you can use smoked paprika instead.
Kosher Salt
Kosher salt is a coarse-grained salt that is perfect for seasoning meat. It helps to bring out the natural flavors of the meat without overpowering it.
Black Pepper
Black pepper adds a bit of heat to the rub. It also helps to enhance the other flavors in the rub.
Chili Powder
Chili powder is a blend of spices that typically includes chili pepper, cumin, garlic, and oregano. It adds a slightly smoky and spicy flavor to the rub.
Garlic Powder
Garlic powder is a must-have ingredient in any barbecue rub. It provides a savory flavor that complements the sweetness of the brown sugar.
Onion Powder
Onion powder adds a subtle onion flavor to the rub. It also helps to enhance the other flavors in the rub.
Cumin
Cumin is a spice that is commonly used in Mexican and Indian cuisine. It adds a warm, earthy flavor to the rub.
Cayenne Pepper
Cayenne pepper adds a bit of heat to the rub. If you prefer a milder rub, you can reduce the amount of cayenne pepper.
Instructions
Making the Carolina BBQ rub is easy. Simply combine all of the ingredients in a bowl and mix until well combined. You can store the rub in an airtight container for up to six months.
Step 1: Measure the Ingredients
Measure out all of the ingredients and place them in a bowl. Make sure to break up any clumps in the brown sugar.
Step 2: Mix the Ingredients
Using a whisk or fork, mix all of the ingredients together until well combined. Make sure that there are no clumps of any ingredients.
Step 3: Store the Rub
Transfer the Carolina BBQ rub to an airtight container and store it in a cool, dry place. The rub will stay fresh for up to six months.
Nutrition
The Carolina BBQ rub is a low-calorie and low-fat seasoning that is perfect for those who are watching their weight. Here's the nutritional information for one tablespoon of the rub:
Calories: 22
Total Fat: 0g
Saturated Fat: 0g
Cholesterol: 0mg
Sodium: 585mg
Total Carbohydrates: 5g
Dietary Fiber: 1g
Sugars: 4g
Protein: 0g
Low in Calories
One tablespoon of the Carolina BBQ rub contains only 22 calories. This makes it a great seasoning for those who are trying to lose weight or maintain a healthy weight.
Low in Fat
The Carolina BBQ rub is also low in fat, with no saturated fat. This makes it a healthier alternative to many store-bought barbecue rubs that are high in fat and calories.
High in Sodium
The one downside to the Carolina BBQ rub is that it is high in sodium. One tablespoon contains 585mg of sodium, which is 25% of the recommended daily intake. If you are on a low-sodium diet, you may want to use this rub sparingly or find a low-sodium alternative.
Conclusion
The Carolina BBQ rub is a simple and delicious seasoning that is perfect for pork, chicken, and beef. It's easy to make with ingredients that you probably already have on hand, and it's low in calories and fat. Whether you're grilling or smoking, this rub is sure to add a savory and slightly sweet flavor to your meat.
