Chili Rub

Everyone getting ready to BBQ or Grill for the 4th of July??

I'm going to do a series of posts of some delishhhhious foods that you can make for the holiday, or just any time this summer.

Let's start off with a Rub. 

A rub is a spice and/or herb mixture.  It's applied to the outside surface of your food before cooking.  They can be used as a dry rub, or a wet rub.  Dry rubs are applied and allowed to sit on the meat, which breaks down the fibers and tenderizes it.  It's great for food that is cooked using direct heat or on food that won't tenderize much.

A wet rub is a dry rub with oil or other fat added to it to create a paste.  Again it's rubbed into and on top of the meat and allowed to sit.

Rubs are very commonly used on meats when grilling or smoking.  They are a great way to add flavor....so try it!

I've made a Chili Rub to go with my pork shoulder for some tasty BBQ Pulled Pork Sandwiches.  I'll give you the pulled pork sandwich recipe tomorrow!

Rubs are super easy to make, using a variety of spices.  In addition to the BBQ Pulled Pork Sandwiches, this would be great on grilled or pan fried chicken, pork chops, and steak. 

Start the summer right with a great BBQ and a GREAT RUB!

Chili Rub

2 T coarse salt
1 T Brown Sugar Splenda (or 2 T regular light brown sugar, packed)
1 1/2 T Smoked Chipotle Paprika  (if you can't find this use smoked paprika and add some chipotle powder as well)
1 T Black smoked pepper (or regular black pepper)
1 T garlic powder
1 t dry mustard
1 t cumin
1 t chili powder
1 t dried oregano

Blend all spices together in a bowl.  Use immediately, or cover tightly and store for up to 2 weeks at room temperature.  Makes 1 cup of spice rub.

Source:  Adapted from William-Sonoma