7 Must-Try Seasoning Blends for Your Next Barbecue: Perfect for Grilling Season
Summer is here, and with it comes the irresistible aroma of barbecue wafting through the air. As we dust off our grills and gather friends and family for those backyard feasts, it’s time to step up our game in the flavor department. The right blend of seasonings can transform a simple piece of meat into a mouthwatering masterpiece. But with so many options available, where do you start? Don’t worry; we’ve got you covered. This blog post will introduce seven must-try seasoning blends that will take your next barbecue to an entirely new level.
The secret to a perfect grill lies in your cooking skills and using the best seasonings. These carefully selected blends are not only full of flavor but also easy to use, making them perfect for both seasoned chefs and beginners alike. So, let’s dive in and discover these amazing combinations that will leave your guests craving more!
1. Classic BBQ Rub
Let’s start with a classic – the BBQ rub. This blend typically includes a mix of brown sugar, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cumin, and chili powder. It works perfectly on ribs, brisket, and chicken.
To make this blend at home:
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons paprika
- 1 tablespoon garlic powder
- 1 tablespoon onion powder
- 2 teaspoons cumin
- 2 teaspoons chili powder
Mix everything thoroughly before rubbing it onto your meat.
2. Jamaican Jerk Rub
Jamaican jerk is a famous Caribbean spice blend that brings a unique heat and flavor combination to meats like chicken or pork.
To make this blend at home:
- 3 tablespoons onion powder
- 3 tablespoons garlic salt
- 3 tablespoons white sugar
- 3 tablespoons dried thyme leaves (or cassava)
- 1 tablespoon ground allspice
- Salt
- Powdered cinnamon
Mix everything well before rubbing it onto the meat. Remember to marinate the meat in rum first!
3. Lemon Herb Seasoning
This seasoning is perfect for grilled seafood such as salmon or shrimp because it adds enough tang without overpowering their natural flavors.
To make this blend at home:
- Thymian
- Dill
- Fresh parsley
- Rosemary
- Garlic salt (or minced fresh garlic)
- Salt and pepper
Mix everything before rubbing it onto the seafood.
4. Memphis BBQ Rub
Memphis is renowned for its dry rub barbecuing style, and this blend includes elements like smoked paprika, cumin, and black pepper.
To make this blend at home:
- Smoked paprika
- Brown sugar
- Onion powder or flakes
- Garlic powder or salt
- Salt
- Black pepper
Add all the ingredients to a bowl, mix thoroughly, and rub it onto the meat before grilling (preferably with slow cooking).
5. Lemon Pepper Seasoning
Lemon pepper seasoning is one of the most versatile blends in your spice rack. Expert chefs all over the world use it, and it is effective on chicken and fish either by itself or when combined with garlic powder or onion flakes.
To make this blend at home:
- 2 tablespoons lemon zest
- 1 tablespoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon dried parsley
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
Combine everything in a small mixing bowl before seasoning your chosen protein.
6. Southwest Dry Rub
This Tex-Mex-inspired seasoning blend has become increasingly popular thanks to its distinctive taste, featuring smoky chipotle chiles and chili powder balanced by sweet brown sugar notes.
To make this blend at home:
- Chili powder
- Cumin
- Garlic salt
- Onion powder
- Brown sugar
- Dried oregano
- Smoked paprika
- Chipotle chili powder
Combine all the ingredients; grill away when it covers your meat completely!
7. Spicy Cajun Seasoning Blend
Cajun seasoning originated in Louisiana cuisine and is known for bringing heat through spices like cayenne pepper and earthy herbs such as thyme. This spicy Cajun seasoning will douse the food with flavor, whether it is meat or veggies.
To make this blend at home:
- Paprika
- Cayenne pepper
- Dried oregano
- Garlic powder
- Cumin
- Onion powder
- Thyme
- Black pepper
Put all the ingredients in a small saucepan, mix well, and store in an airtight container.
Final thoughts
Creating your seasoning blends is easier than you may think, but using these seven picks for the barbecue season will make this summer’s outdoor gathering memorable. With endless flavors and tastes to choose from, don’t be afraid to customize!
About the Author
Twigs cafe staff is comprised of editors, writers, food & drink experts, nutritionists, and researchers to create informative and helpful content for health-conscious people.
