Pork Rub

if you’re looking to add some extra flavor to your pork dishes, a sweet and smoky pork rub is the perfect way to do it. Pork rubs are a combination of herbs, spices, and other seasonings that are applied to the meat before cooking, enhancing the flavor and texture of the final product. With a sweet and smoky pork rub, you can add a depth of flavor that will have your taste buds singing. If you like spicy rubs, feel free to adjust the heat by adding more cayenne pepper or whatever hot pepper you happen to enjoy. The possibilities are endless.

Most of the spices and flavorings are ones you probably already have in your pantry. You can make just enough for one recipe but why not make extra and keep a small jar of it on hand for those days when you want a nice rub but don’t want to unload all the bottles from your spice cupboard. This rub will last a month or two in a mason jar. Just give it a good shake before using and remember to let the rub sit on your meat for at least 20-30 minutes so that the flavor can actually permeate the meat.

I even use this rub when I am making pork ribs in my Instant pot! Add a little liquid smoke to the liquid in the IP for an extra hint of smoke.

This sweet and smoky pork rub is perfect for pork chops, ribs, or even pulled pork. The combination of brown sugar, smoked paprika, and other spices will give your pork a rich, complex flavor that will have your guests coming back for seconds. So the next time you’re looking to add some extra flavor to your pork, give this sweet and smoky pork rub a try! And while you’re at it make a double recipe to last for summer barbeque season!

Although this is a pork rub, you can definitely use it on chicken as well. If you’re looking for that depth of flavor for your grilled chicken then go ahead and give it a try. I recommend you try this rub on a smoked pork loin, you can find my recipe here.

Tips for the best Pork Rub

Making your own sweet and smoky pork rub is an easy and affordable way to add flavor to your pork dishes. Here are some tips to help you make your own delicious pork rub at home:

1. Start with a base of sugar and smoked paprika. The sweetness of brown sugar complements the smoky flavor of paprika, creating a delicious foundation for your pork rub.
2. Add some salt. Salt is an important component of any seasoning blend. It helps to enhance the natural flavors of the pork and balances out the sweetness of the sugar. Use kosher salt or sea salt for the best results.
3. Experiment with different spices. The beauty of making your own pork rub is that you can customize it to your liking. Add in your favorite spices, such as garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, cumin, chili powder, cayenne pepper, and dried thyme.
4. Mix well. Make sure to thoroughly mix all of the ingredients together, so that each bite of pork has a balanced amount of seasoning.
5. Rub the pork generously. When applying the rub to the pork, be sure to cover the meat completely. This will ensure that the flavors penetrate the meat and create a delicious crust on the outside.
6. Let it sit. Once the pork is coated with the rub, let it sit for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
7. Cook as desired. You can cook your pork using any method you prefer, whether it’s grilling, smoking, or baking. Just make sure to monitor the internal temperature to ensure it reaches a safe temperature of 145°F.

With these tips, you can make your own delicious sweet and smoky pork rub that will take your pork dishes to the next level. Experiment with different spices and seasonings to create your own unique blend that suits your tastes. Enjoy!