Number 1 BBQ Dry Rub (Sweet, Smoky & Perfect for Pork)

Name: Number 1 BBQ Dry Rub (Sweet, Smoky & Perfect for Pork)
Prep time: 5 min
Yield: Enough for approx. 2–3 kg of meat
Cuisine: BBQ
Ingredients: 3 tbsp dark brown sugar; 1 tbsp sea salt or kosher salt; 1 tbsp smoked paprika; 1 tsp garlic powder; 1 tsp onion powder; 1 tsp freshly ground black pepper; 1 tsp ground cumin; ½ tsp cayenne pepper (adjust for heat); ½ tsp mustard powder; ½ tsp dried thyme or oregano

This Number 1 BBQ Dry Rub is our go-to blend for pork shoulder, ribs, dark meats and even beef brisket. It strikes the perfect balance between sweetness, warmth and subtle spice — creating a rich caramelised crust when cooked over charcoal, gas or in an electric smoker.

The brown sugar helps build bark, the paprika delivers smokiness, and cumin adds depth without overpowering the meat. It’s simple, versatile and reliable — exactly what a house rub should be.

If you’re new to smoking or indirect cooking, read our Beginner’s Guide to BBQ & Smoking (UK) before starting.

For perfect timing when using this rub on larger cuts, use our Smoker Time Calculator.

Prep Time

5 mins

Cook Time (hours)

Cook Time (minutes)

Servings

Enough for approx. 2–3 kg of meat

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Cuisine:

BBQ

Course:

Rub

Difficulty:

Easy

Keyword:

BBQ dry rub recipe UK

Author:

Kitchen Sizzlers

Cooking Temp

Ingredients

3 tbsp dark brown sugar
1 tbsp sea salt or kosher salt
1 tbsp smoked paprika
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp onion powder
1 tsp freshly ground black pepper
1 tsp ground cumin
½ tsp cayenne pepper (adjust for heat)
½ tsp mustard powder
½ tsp dried thyme or oregano