I’m a fiend for anything a little sweet and a little spicy. And when it comes in the form of a rub that works well with chicken and pork? Sold.
Sweet Heat Rub for Chicken or Pork
This is a super easy rub made from common kitchen staples, and it’s flavor rings out clear, partially because there are no herbs. Don’t get me wrong, herbs are great in rubs but they do make the flavors of a rub a bit muddled and earthy.
Don’t overlook the mustard powder in this rub, either. It brings a little magic to the table – which is why it’s included in my Top Secret Super Stealth Arsenal of Ingredients.
For the chili powder, a common place grocery store chili powder is nice but if you’d like, go with a single chili. Ancho is great. Chipotle brings its own intense heat. I think this rub is at it’s best when combined with a sweeter barbecue sauce like my Honey Chipotle.
Sweet Heat Rub for Pork or Chicken
- 5 tablespoons sugar (brown or white)
- 2 tablespoons Kosher salt (or see Morton’s conversion table)
- 2 tablespoons paprika
- 1 tablespoon chili powder (or choose an individual chili powder, like ancho)
- 1 tablespoon cumin
- 1 tablespoon garlic powder
- 1 tablespoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon onion powder
- 1 1/2 teaspoons cayenne
- 1 1/2 teaspoons celery salt
- 1/2 teaspoon dry mustard
Mix together, store in a jar in a dark cupboard. Use sprinkled or rubbed on chicken or pork.
If you’d like to see more of my spice & herb blends, check out Spice, Herb & Flavor Packet Substitutes. I’m adding as I go along!
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I’ll be taking this recipe to Fiesta Friday, hosted this week by Quinn @ Dad What’s 4 Dinner and Monika @ Everyday Healthy Recipes.
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