How To Use Spices When Grilling Or Barbequing (Homemade)

Written by Carl Mueller in Cooking

Dear Secondary Students and Families, With the end of the 2022-23 school year quickly approaching, the YCDSB wants to give you notice that the last few days of school will be different than in the past years. Wednesday, June 28, 2023 is an Exam Review Day. Students will be able to review their exams for the first three and a half hours of the school day and then there will be no further instruction. Student transportation will be available and schedules will be adjusted to pick up students approximately three and a half hours after classes begin. Thursday, June 29, 2023 is an Asynchronous Pathways Planning Day. Lesson plans will be provided but there is no requirement that students physically come to school on this day. How To Use Spices When Grilling Or Barbequing (Homemade)

Adding spices to grilled and barbequed foods enhances their taste by imparting complex flavors, aromas, and depth to the dishes, creating a tantalizing and well-rounded sensory experience that elevates the overall enjoyment of the meal.

Common spices (and herbs) to use on your grill or BBQ include:

  • Paprika
  • Cumin
  • Chili powder
  • Garlic powder
  • Onion powder
  • Oregano
  • Thyme
  • Rosemary
  • Black pepper
  • Smoked paprika

This is just a short list but includes some of the more popular ones.

Let’s discuss the steps to effectively incorporate spices and herbs when grilling and barbequing. Plus, we’ll discuss how to make them at home to save money!

How To Use Spices For Grilling and Barbequing

Here’s a guide on how to effectively use spices in your grilling or barbequing preparations:

  1. Choose the Right Spices: Select spices that complement the flavors of the meat you’re grilling or barbequing. Common choices include paprika, cumin, chili powder, garlic powder, onion powder, oregano, thyme, rosemary, black pepper and smoked paprika. Consider the overall taste profile you want to achieve, whether it’s smoky, spicy, tangy, or aromatic.
  2. Prepare a Spice Rub: Create a spice rub by combining your chosen spices with salt, sugar (optional), and any additional herbs or seasonings you prefer. Start with a base of 1-2 tablespoons of each spice and adjust according to your taste preferences. Mix the spices well to ensure even distribution.
  3. Pre-season or Marinate: For maximum flavor infusion, pre-season your meat by applying the spice rub directly onto the surface. Gently massage the spices into the meat to ensure they adhere properly. Alternatively, you can marinate the meat in a spice-infused liquid for several hours or overnight to allow the flavors to penetrate.
  4. Let It Rest: After seasoning or marinating, let the meat rest at room temperature for about 15-30 minutes. This allows the spices to further permeate the meat and helps it cook more evenly.
  5. Control Heat and Cooking Time: Follow proper grilling or barbequing techniques, adjusting the heat level and cooking time according to the thickness and type of meat. Spices can burn if exposed to excessive heat, so keep a close eye on your grill or barbeque to prevent overcooking or charring.
  6. Add Spice during Cooking: Depending on the spices you’re using, you can also add an additional layer of flavor during the cooking process. Sprinkle some extra spice rub onto the meat as it grills or bastes it with a spice-infused sauce or marinade for added depth and intensity.
  7. Use Smoke and Herbs: Enhance the flavor of your grilled or barbequed meats by incorporating smoke or fresh herbs. Soak wood chips in water, then place them over the charcoal or in a smoker box for a smoky aroma. Additionally, adding fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme to the grill or barbeque can infuse the meat with fragrant herbal notes.
  8. Adjust to Taste: Grilling and barbequing are opportunities for experimentation and personalization. Taste the meat as it cooks and adjust the seasoning if needed. You can sprinkle additional spices or herbs during the cooking process to intensify the flavor according to your preference.

10 Spice Blends To Make At Home For Your Grill Or Barbeque

There are several spice blends that work exceptionally well for grilling and barbequing. Here are 10 popular options you can make at home:

  1. BBQ Rub: A classic blend of brown sugar, paprika, chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper, which adds smoky, sweet, and savory flavors to grilled meats.
  2. Cajun Seasoning: A zesty blend of paprika, cayenne pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, thyme, oregano, and black pepper, perfect for adding a spicy and aromatic kick to grilled chicken, seafood, or vegetables.
  3. Jerk Seasoning: A Caribbean-inspired blend of spices like allspice, thyme, cinnamon, nutmeg, garlic powder, and cayenne pepper, providing a flavorful and slightly spicy coating for grilled chicken, pork, or fish.
  4. Mediterranean Blend: A mix of dried herbs such as oregano, thyme, rosemary, basil, and garlic powder, creating a fragrant and herbaceous flavor profile that pairs well with grilled lamb, chicken, or vegetables.
  5. Mexican Spice Blend: A combination of chili powder, cumin, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and oregano, adding a bold and smoky taste to grilled meats, tacos, or fajitas.
  6. Steak Seasoning: A robust blend of salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, and herbs like thyme or rosemary, designed to enhance the natural flavors of grilled steaks and impart a savory and slightly charred taste.
  7. Lemon Pepper Seasoning: A tangy and aromatic blend of lemon zest, black pepper, salt, and herbs, ideal for seasoning fish, chicken, or vegetables on the grill, providing a bright and zesty flavor.
  8. Asian-inspired Spice Blend: A combination of ginger, garlic powder, soy sauce powder, sesame seeds, and red pepper flakes, bringing a blend of sweet, savory, and spicy notes to grilled meats and stir-fried vegetables.
  9. Smoky Chipotle Seasoning: A mix of ground chipotle pepper, smoked paprika, cumin, garlic powder, and brown sugar, offering a smoky and slightly spicy flavor to grilled chicken, pork, or ribs.
  10. Tuscan Herb Blend: A medley of dried herbs like basil, oregano, thyme, rosemary, and garlic powder, providing an earthy and aromatic touch to grilled meats, vegetables, or bread.

These spice blends can be adjusted to suit personal preferences by adding or reducing certain spices. Experimenting with different combinations and ratios can lead to exciting and customized flavors for your grilled and barbequed dishes.

Final Thoughts

Remember, the key to using spices when grilling or barbequing is balance. Start with a moderate amount of spice and gradually build up if desired. By incorporating the right combination of spices and following proper grilling techniques, you can elevate the flavors of your meats and create mouthwatering, aromatic dishes that will impress your family and friends.

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