Getting that perfect smoky, savory crust on your ribs is an art. But even the best pitmaster needs a little help, and that’s where a good rib rub comes in. I’ve tried a ton of them over the years, some winners and some total flops. A great rub should complement the meat, not overpower it, and it needs to create a beautiful bark. So, I’m sharing my top picks to help you achieve BBQ perfection.
Product Overview / Quick Summary
- Meat Church Holy Gospel Rub: Versatile, all-purpose rub with a balance of sweet and savory.
- Killer Hogs The BBQ Rub: Award-winning, competition-style rub with a sweet and spicy kick.
- Spiceology BBQ Rub Variety Pack: Offers a wide range of flavor profiles for different preferences.
- Traeger Pork & Poultry Rub: Specifically designed for pork and poultry, enhancing natural flavors.
- AmazingRibs.com Memphis Dust BBQ Rub: A classic, balanced rub that delivers authentic Memphis-style flavor.
Top 5 Best Rib Rubs to Buy
1. Meat Church Holy Gospel Rub
Meat Church Holy Gospel Rub is an all-purpose rub that delivers a fantastic balance of sweet and savory flavors. It’s a blend of salt, pepper, garlic, paprika, and a touch of sugar, making it incredibly versatile for ribs, brisket, and even chicken. I like using it because it creates a beautiful mahogany color on my ribs.
Pros:
- ✅ Great for all types of meat.
- ✅ Creates a beautiful bark.
- ✅ Balanced sweet and savory flavor.
Cons:
- ❌ Can be a bit salty for some palates.
- ❌ Some may find the flavor profile too simple.
- ❌ Not ideal if you prefer a spicy rub.
Verdict: A solid choice for anyone looking for an all-purpose rub that delivers consistent results. It’s especially good if you want a reliable flavor without too much fuss.
2. Killer Hogs The BBQ Rub
Killer Hogs The BBQ Rub is an award-winning, competition-style rub. This rub is a blend of sugar, salt, paprika, and spices that gives your ribs a sweet and spicy kick. I remember watching Malcom Reed (the creator) win competitions using this, so I had to try it, and it lives up to the hype. It’s excellent for ribs and pork shoulder, giving them a deep, rich flavor.
Pros:
- ✅ Award-winning flavor profile.
- ✅ Sweet and spicy blend.
- ✅ Great for competition-style BBQ.
Cons:
- ❌ Can be too sweet for some.
- ❌ Contains MSG (if that’s a concern for you).
- ❌ Might not be ideal for those who prefer a more savory rub.
Verdict: Perfect for those who love a sweet and spicy flavor and want to achieve competition-worthy BBQ at home. Just be mindful of the sugar content if you prefer a less sweet rub.
3. Spiceology BBQ Rub Variety Pack
Spiceology BBQ Rub Variety Pack is perfect if you like experimenting with different flavors. This pack includes a range of rubs, from smoky and savory to sweet and spicy. I’ve found it handy for finding my personal favorites. It’s a great way to explore different flavor profiles without committing to a large container of a single rub.
Pros:
- ✅ Wide variety of flavors.
- ✅ Great for experimentation.
- ✅ High-quality ingredients.
Cons:
- ❌ Individual containers are smaller.
- ❌ Some flavors might not appeal to everyone.
- ❌ Can be pricier than buying a single large container.
Verdict: Ideal for BBQ enthusiasts who enjoy trying new flavors and want to expand their culinary horizons. It’s a fun way to discover your go-to rub for different meats and occasions.
4. Traeger Pork & Poultry Rub
Traeger Pork & Poultry Rub is specifically designed to enhance the natural flavors of pork and poultry. It’s a blend of spices, herbs, and a touch of sweetness that complements these meats without overpowering them. I’ve used it on ribs and chicken, and it consistently delivers a balanced, delicious flavor.
Pros:
- ✅ Designed specifically for pork and poultry.
- ✅ Enhances natural flavors.
- ✅ Balanced and versatile.
Cons:
- ❌ Might not be as effective on beef.
- ❌ Some may find it too mild.
- ❌ Can be a bit harder to find compared to other brands.
Verdict: A great choice if you primarily cook pork and poultry and want a rub that brings out the best in these meats. It’s a reliable option for achieving a consistent, flavorful result.
5. AmazingRibs.com Memphis Dust BBQ Rub
AmazingRibs.com Memphis Dust BBQ Rub is a classic, balanced rub that delivers authentic Memphis-style flavor. It’s a blend of paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and other spices, creating a savory and slightly sweet profile. This rub is based on Meathead Goldwyn’s famous recipe, and it’s perfect for ribs, pork shoulder, and even chicken.
Pros:
- ✅ Authentic Memphis-style flavor.
- ✅ Balanced and versatile.
- ✅ Based on a well-regarded recipe.
Cons:
- ❌ Not very spicy.
- ❌ Requires mixing the rub yourself (if buying the recipe).
- ❌ Might not appeal to those who prefer a sweeter rub.
Verdict: Ideal for BBQ purists who appreciate a classic Memphis-style rub and want to achieve an authentic flavor. It’s a reliable choice for ribs and other pork dishes.
Buying Guide
Choosing the right rib rub can feel overwhelming, but here are a few things to consider:
- Flavor Profile: Do you prefer sweet, spicy, savory, or a balance of flavors? Think about what kind of BBQ you generally enjoy.
- Ingredients: Check the ingredients list for any allergens or ingredients you want to avoid, like MSG.
- Meat Type: Some rubs are designed specifically for certain meats, like pork or beef. Consider what you’ll be cooking most often.
- Quantity: If you’re trying a rub for the first time, consider buying a smaller quantity to see if you like it before committing to a large container.
- Reviews: Read reviews from other users to get an idea of the rub’s flavor and performance.
FAQs
What’s the best way to apply a rib rub?
Apply the rub generously and evenly to all sides of the ribs. Let it sit for at least 30 minutes, or preferably overnight, in the refrigerator to allow the flavors to penetrate the meat.
Can I make my own rib rub?
Absolutely! Making your own rub allows you to customize the flavors to your liking. There are tons of recipes online to get you started.
How long will a rib rub last?
Most commercially produced rubs will last for a year or more if stored in a cool, dry place. Homemade rubs are best used within a few months for optimal flavor.
Should I add sugar to my rib rub?
Sugar helps create a nice bark and adds sweetness, but it’s a matter of personal preference. If you prefer a less sweet flavor, you can reduce or omit the sugar.
Conclusion
Finding the perfect rib rub is a journey, but hopefully, this guide gives you a head start. Each of these rubs offers something unique, so experiment and see what works best for your taste. Happy grilling!
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