Grilling season is here, and it’s time to get creative with your marinades and seasonings. While many people rely on pre-made sauces and marinades for their flavor, grilling rubs are a great way to create a unique and delicious taste for your meats.
So what exactly is a grilling rub? It’s a mixture of spices and herbs that are rubbed onto the meat before it’s cooked. It’s a great way to add flavor and texture to meats without adding any unnecessary fat or calories.
The best part about making your own rubs is that you can customize them to your preference. Whether you prefer sweet or spicy, there are endless combinations of flavors and spices that can be used.
One popular ingredient used in many grilling rubs is paprika. Paprika adds a smoky flavor to your meat and gives it a beautiful red color. Other common ingredients include garlic powder, onion powder, chili powder, and cumin.
When making your own grilling rubs, it’s important to keep in mind the meat you’ll be using. Certain spices work better with certain meats. For example, poultry tends to pair well with herbs like thyme and rosemary, while pork is delicious with a sweet rub that includes brown sugar and cinnamon.
Applying the rub is a simple process. First, rinse the meat with water and pat it dry with a paper towel. Then, generously apply the rub to the meat, making sure to cover all sides evenly. Cover the meat with plastic wrap and let it sit for at least 30 minutes before grilling.
Grilling rubs aren’t limited to just meat either. You can use them on vegetables and even fruits. Use a sweet and spicy rub on pineapple or mango for a unique and tasty side dish.
If you’re short on time or ingredients, there are plenty of pre-made rubs available at your local grocery store. However, these pre-made rubs tend to have a lot of added salt and preservatives so it’s important to read the labels carefully.
When buying pre-made rubs, look for ones with as few ingredients as possible. Avoid ones that have MSG or any ingredient you can’t pronounce. It’s best to stick with names and brands you’re familiar with, or to do some research ahead of time to find a trusted and reputable brand.
Grilling rubs don’t just add flavor to your meat, they can also help tenderize it too. The salt in the rub helps to break down the fibers in the meat, making it more tender and juicy.
When grilling with rubs, it’s important to keep the meat moist during the cooking process. Basting with oil or a marinade can help prevent the meat from drying out. If you’re grilling for a long period of time, consider wrapping the meat in foil to keep it moist.
Grilling rubs are a great way to add flavor and texture to your meats while reducing your overall fat and calorie intake. With endless combinations of seasonings and herbs, you can experiment and customize your rubs to your preference. Whether you prefer savory, sweet, or spicy, grilling rubs are a great way to take your grilling game to the next level. Try it out this grilling season and see what delicious creations you can come up with.
