Basic Barbecue Rub
Peer reviewed by UK recipe editorsAuthored by UK recipe editorsOriginally published 16 Jan 2026
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This versatile barbecue rub is a cupboard essential for anyone who loves the smoky, savoury flavours of outdoor cooking. By balancing sweetness with a gentle heat from the cayenne and black pepper, it creates an aromatic crust on everything from slow-roasted brisket to grilled cauliflower steaks. The addition of hickory-smoked salt provides that signature wood-fired depth without the need for a professional smoker.
As a low-sugar alternative to many shop-bought varieties, this homemade seasoning allows you to control the salt and spice levels to suit your palate. It is an excellent choice for batch prepping, as it stays fresh for months when stored correctly. Simply massage a generous amount into your chosen protein an hour before cooking to let the flavours develop beautifully.
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Ingredients for Basic Barbecue Rub
50g firmly packed brown sugar
50g sweet paprika
3 tablespoons black pepper
3 tablespoons coarse salt
1 tablespoon hickory-smoked salt or more coarse salt
2 teaspoons garlic powder
2 teaspoons onion powder
2 teaspoons celery seeds
1 teaspoon cayenne pepper
How to make Basic Barbecue Rub
Combine all the ingredients in a mixing bowl and stir to mix. (Actually, your hands work better for mixing than a spoon or whisk does. Use your fingers to break up any lump of brown sugar.) Store the rub in an airtight jar away from heat or light; it will keep for at least 6 months.
Disclaimer
While every effort has been made to ensure the information is accurate and up to date, individual needs may vary and dietary requirements can differ based on personal health conditions. Always check food labels and allergen information before preparing or consuming any recipe. If you have specific health concerns, allergies, intolerances, or are following a medically prescribed diet, seek advice from your GP, pharmacist, or a registered dietitian before making significant changes to your diet or lifestyle.
Article history
The information on this page is peer reviewed by qualified clinicians.
16 Jan 2026 | Originally published
Authored by:
UK recipe editors
Peer reviewed by
UK recipe editors

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