Sweet n’ spicy meat rub

If you are ready for a tasty rub that is friendly with just about any meat—chicken, pork, ribs, even steak…then this recipe is for you! It’s especially great because you don’t need to use additional BBQ sauce…but it won’t hurt. When I use it on chicken, the kids have nicknamed it “the special chicken” and it flies off the plate…get it…flies off the plate…it’s chicken…oh, just go cook!

This is based on 2 recipes…a rub by Big Daddy (Aaron McCargo, Jr & one of my favs…Martha Stewart—“we’re not worthy” ). I’ve added a lot to the rub, so it really has become my own…but I believe in giving credit where it’s due…and the cooking method was from Martha.

1 1/2 c. brown sugar

1 Tbsp. Kosher salt (DON’T use this much if  you are using table salt, it will be like a salt lick…cut it down to 1 1/2 tsp. regular salt)

1/8 c. paprika (yes…1/8 CUP)

1 Tbsp. ground cumin

1 Tbsp. chili powder (more if you like)

1/2 Tbsp. cayenne (it’s a spicy rub!)

1 Tbsp. freshly ground black pepper

1/2 tsp. red pepper flakes

1/4 tsp. chipotle powder

1/2 Tbsp. garlic powder

1/2 tsp. onion powder (I use garlic & onion powder on purpose, don’t sub. the real thing)

Mix all ingredients together in a medium bowl…use a whisk, it’s super quick and distributes everything evenly.

If you are using chicken pieces or even pork chops, put the rub in gallon zip top bag and shake 1 chop or 2-3 chicken pieces like it’s Shake n’ Bake…works fantastic! If you are making ribs or using it on steak, simply place the mixture on each side of meat, and rub it well into the meat, don’t skimp but don’t lay it on too thick.

No need to let it sit…it’s ready to grill or bake. Remember…sugar burns easily…so keep the grill/oven at a medium-high heat.

Easy Ribs:

Preheat oven to 400 deg.

Put rub mixture on both sides of uncooked ribs. Place on baking sheet. Cover TIGHTLY with aluminum foil.

Bake for 1 1/2 hours for 5 pounds of ribs). When tender and no pink remains, you can throw them on the grill for about 3-5 minutes per side to get a nice BBQ taste…baste with BBQ sauce if desired. Enjoy!