RUB per Barbecue Smart

Rubs are the secret to turning any barbecue into a memorable event. Whether you’re a grilling enthusiast or a barbecue master , knowing about rubs and how to use them can make the difference between a good barbecue and a great one. Rubs are primarily used to flavor and season meat , adding depth and complexity to food with spicy, sweet, smoky, or piquant notes .

What are Rubs?

Rubs are mixes of dried herbs and spices that are rubbed onto food before cooking. Unlike marinades, rubs do not contain liquid, which makes them ideal for creating a flavorful and aromatic crust on the surface of food when barbecuing . The word "rub" comes from the English verb " to rub ", meaning " to rub ", relating to the action of vigorously applying a mixture of spices to the surface of meat or fish before cooking, so that the spices adhere better and can penetrate the dietary fibers.

Rub for Meat and Rub for Fish

For red meats , like beef or lamb, which have a deeper flavor and richer texture, the perfect rub tends to be bolder and spicier . This type of meat benefits greatly from rubs that include freshly ground black pepper , which adds a palate-pleasing punch, and garlic powder , for a hint of tang. Smoked paprika plays a key role for a smoky flavor, and a teaspoon of chili powder is ideal for those who like a lingering heat in every bite.

For iconic cuts of pork like ribs, we've created a pork rib rub made with brown sugar to create a crispy crust on the meat, sweet paprika for a smoky note, honey for a sweet touch and cumin for spicy notes. Another great classic of American barbecue is pulled pork, our special pulled pork rub is full of nuances of flavor that will make your barbecue inimitable . Every self-respecting barbecue includes cooking the brisket , our brisket rub is specifically designed for indirect cooking in true Texan style .

When it comes to white meats , like chicken, the strategy changes a bit. This meat, because of its delicateness, pairs beautifully with our chicken rub, which has a more pronounced sweet component. The brown sugar not only helps caramelize the surface of the meat during cooking, but also adds a sweetness that contrasts beautifully with the smokiness. The sweet paprika contributes a bright color, without overpowering the delicate notes of the meat.

Fish rubs use a carefully selected blend of herbs and citrus notes to enhance and complement the fish’s natural delicacy without overpowering it. Ingredients such as fennel , thyme, lemon zest and pink pepper are excellent choices for this purpose. Applying a light, balanced rub can enrich fish such as salmon , trout or sea bass. Unlike meat, fish has a more delicate and less fatty texture , which means the flavours of the rub can penetrate more quickly and more intensely. For this reason, it is best to apply the rub just before cooking , in order to preserve the fish’s juicy texture and ensure that the rub’s aromatic notes are fresh and lively.

How to Use Rubs

Using rubs in the world of barbecue is a simple and effective technique. However, to obtain the best possible results, there are some precautions that should not be underestimated. The first fundamental step is to apply the rub evenly over the entire surface of the meat or fish, massaging delicately . This operation not only guarantees a balanced distribution of flavor but also a more aromatic and crispy external crust after cooking.

For those who enjoy thicker cuts of meat, such as beef brisket or large ribeyes, it is advisable to leave the rub-seasoned meat to rest in the refrigerator overnight . This process, also known as "dry marinating," allows the spices to slowly penetrate the meat's tissues , enhancing its flavor and improving its tenderness. During the cooking process, maintaining a constant temperature is crucial to prevent the spices from burning and to ensure that the food cooks evenly. A helpful tip is to use a cooking thermometer , for impeccable results. Careful management of the heat, combined with careful rotation of the food on the grill, helps preserve the integrity of the spices and ensures a perfectly flavored and inviting outer crust.