Best 14 Memphis Rub Recipes

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# Title: Embark on a Flavorful Journey to Memphis: Discover the Art of Dry Rubs for an Authentic Barbecue Experience

**Introduction:**

In the realm of barbecue, Memphis stands tall as a culinary icon, renowned for its distinctive dry rubs that transform ordinary meats into extraordinary flavor sensations. This article presents a collection of carefully crafted Memphis rub recipes, each offering a unique blend of spices and herbs that will elevate your grilling or smoking experience. From the classic "Sweet and Smoky" rub that imparts a harmonious balance of sweetness and smokiness, to the bold and piquant "Memphis Heat" rub that brings a touch of fire to your dishes, these recipes cater to a wide range of taste preferences. Whether you're a seasoned pitmaster or just starting your barbecue journey, these Memphis rubs will guide you towards creating succulent, fall-off-the-bone meats that will leave your taste buds dancing. Prepare to embark on a flavor-packed adventure as we delve into the secrets of authentic Memphis barbecue.

**Recipes Included:**

1. **Classic Memphis Rub:** This timeless rub forms the foundation of Memphis-style barbecue, offering a perfect balance of sweetness, smokiness, and a subtle hint of heat. Its versatility makes it suitable for a variety of meats, including pork ribs, pork shoulder, and chicken.

2. **Sweet and Smoky Memphis Rub:** Elevate your barbecue game with this delightful rub that combines the classic Memphis flavors with a touch of sweetness. Brown sugar and honey add a rich, caramelized crust to your meats, while paprika and chili powder introduce a subtle smokiness.

3. **Memphis Heat Rub:** For those who crave a bit of spice in their barbecue, this rub delivers a bold and fiery kick. Cayenne pepper and chipotle powder bring the heat, while brown sugar and paprika ensure a balanced flavor profile. Perfect for pork ribs, beef brisket, and chicken wings.

4. **Honey Garlic Memphis Rub:** Garlic lovers, rejoice! This rub's harmonious blend of garlic, honey, and brown sugar creates a tantalizing glaze on your meats. Its sweet and savory notes make it an excellent choice for chicken, pork tenderloin, and salmon.

5. **Citrus Memphis Rub:** Brighten up your barbecue with this vibrant rub that incorporates the zest and juice of oranges and lemons. Its refreshing citrus flavor complements pork chops, seafood, and grilled vegetables beautifully.

6. **Memphis Coffee Rub:** Coffee aficionados, prepare to be amazed by this unique rub that infuses your meats with a rich, smoky coffee flavor. Perfectly suited for beef ribs, pork shoulder, and venison, this rub adds an unexpected depth of flavor to your barbecue creations.

Here are our top 14 tried and tested recipes!

MEMPHIS DRY RUB



Memphis Dry Rub image

This is a wonderful and spicy rub that goes great on beef or pork ribs! Put it on ribs lightly to get a nice kick and put it on heavy to get a bold hot dish!

Provided by Nikki Johnson

Categories     Side Dish     Sauces and Condiments Recipes

Time 10m

Yield 24

Number Of Ingredients 9

¼ cup brown sugar
¼ cup white sugar
¼ cup paprika
3 tablespoons salt
1 tablespoon onion powder
1 tablespoon cayenne pepper
1 tablespoon ground black pepper
1 tablespoon garlic powder
1 tablespoon chili powder

Steps:

  • Combine brown sugar, white sugar, paprika, salt, onion powder, cayenne pepper, black pepper, garlic powder, and chili powder in a bowl.

Nutrition Facts : Calories 24.6 calories, Carbohydrate 5.9 g, Fat 0.3 g, Fiber 0.7 g, Protein 0.4 g, Sodium 876.8 mg, Sugar 4.7 g

BEST MEMPHIS BBQ DRY RUB



Best Memphis BBQ Dry Rub image

This is the best Memphis-style BBQ dry rub; perfectly sweet, spicy and peppery.

Provided by Jordan VanderLaan

Categories     100+ Everyday Cooking Recipes

Time 10m

Yield 3

Number Of Ingredients 8

2 tablespoons brown sugar
2 tablespoons ground black pepper
2 tablespoons paprika
1 ½ tablespoons ground white pepper
1 ½ tablespoons red pepper flakes
1 ½ tablespoons salt
1 tablespoon chili powder
1 tablespoon garlic powder

Steps:

  • Whisk brown sugar, black pepper, paprika, white pepper, red pepper flakes, salt, chili powder, and garlic powder together in a bowl. Store in an airtight container.

Nutrition Facts : Calories 100.9 calories, Carbohydrate 22.7 g, Fat 2 g, Fiber 6.2 g, Protein 2.9 g, SaturatedFat 0.4 g, Sodium 3523.2 mg, Sugar 10.6 g

MEMPHIS DRY-RUB RIBS



Memphis Dry-Rub Ribs image

This Juneteenth showstopper, using a dry rub from Greg Collier, the chef and co-owner of Leah & Louise in Charlotte, N.C., is an ode to the flavors of the Mississippi Delta. The smoky, sweet, salty pork ribs slow roast in the oven, yielding tender meat seasoned with a traditional barbecue dry rub. You can substitute the pork for slab beef spareribs with equally good results, or use mushrooms for a vegetarian approach. Crushed peanuts and sweet-potato pikliz make the ribs a meal.

Provided by Nicole Taylor

Categories     dinner, barbecues, finger foods, meat, roasts, main course

Time 3h

Yield 3 to 6 servings

Number Of Ingredients 10

1/2 (packed) cup dark brown sugar
1/4 cup hot paprika
2 tablespoons kosher salt
2 tablespoons onion powder
2 tablespoons garlic powder
1 tablespoon ground black pepper
1 1/2 teaspoons cumin seed
1 1/2 teaspoons dry mustard
4 pounds bone-in country pork rib rack
Crushed unsalted peanuts, for garnish (optional)

Steps:

  • Make the rub: In a large bowl, combine all rub ingredients and mix well.
  • Prepare the ribs: Rinse the pork ribs then pat dry and place on a medium sheet pan, fat side up. Coat the ribs all over with the dry rub. Place in the fridge uncovered for at least 7 hours or overnight.
  • Heat oven to 350 degrees. Line a baking sheet with foil and place a wire rack on top. Transfer ribs to rack and cook, uncovered, 1 1/2 hours. Cover with foil and cook for an additional 1 hour. The ribs will be done when they have an internal temperature of 180 degrees and the meat pulls away from the bone.
  • Let rest for 30 minutes before slicing into individual ribs. Garnish with crushed peanuts, if desired.

MEMPHIS RUB



Memphis Rub image

This zesty rub will bring out the best in ribs and other meats. Try it on chicken!

Provided by ALIKAT695

Categories     Side Dish     Sauces and Condiments Recipes

Time 10m

Yield 4

Number Of Ingredients 11

¼ cup paprika
1 tablespoon packed dark brown sugar
1 tablespoon white sugar
2 teaspoons salt
2 teaspoons monosodium glutamate (MSG)
1 teaspoon celery salt
1 teaspoon ground black pepper
1 teaspoon cayenne pepper, or to taste
1 teaspoon dry mustard
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder

Steps:

  • In a small airtight container, mix paprika, dark brown sugar, white sugar, salt, monosodium glutamate, celery salt, ground black pepper, cayenne pepper, dry mustard, garlic powder and onion powder. Seal and store in a cool dark place until ready for use.

Nutrition Facts : Calories 62 calories, Carbohydrate 12 g, Fat 1.3 g, Fiber 3 g, Protein 1.6 g, SaturatedFat 0.2 g, Sodium 1785.8 mg, Sugar 7.5 g

MEMPHIS DRY RUB RIBS (STEVEN RAICHLEN)



Memphis Dry Rub Ribs (Steven Raichlen) image

Fashioned after Charlie Vergos' famous ribs-grilled over charcoal, mopped with vinegar sauce, and coated with a dry rub just before serving. Nearly impossible to duplicate these famous ribs at home because Vergos cooks them in a one-of-a kind pit and the rub recipe is a closely guarded secret. Here is Mr. Raichlen's take on my favorite ribs.

Provided by ratherbeswimmin

Categories     < 4 Hours

Time 1h30m

Yield 8 serving(s)

Number Of Ingredients 18

3 tablespoons sweet paprika
3 tablespoons pure chile powder
1 tablespoon salt
2 teaspoons fresh ground black pepper
2 teaspoons garlic powder
2 teaspoons onion powder
2 teaspoons dried thyme
2 teaspoons dried oregano
2 teaspoons yellow mustard seeds
1 teaspoon ground coriander
1 teaspoon celery seed
1 teaspoon cayenne pepper
1 cup distilled white vinegar
1 tablespoon salt
2 tablespoons memphis dry rub seasonings
4 slabs baby back ribs (6-8 lb.)
salt
fresh ground black pepper

Steps:

  • You will need a barbecue mop.
  • Make the rub: add the rub ingredients to a bowl; stir to mix.
  • Store rub in an airtight container away from heat and light; will keep for 6 months.
  • Make the mop sauce-add the vinegar, salt, and rub in a bowl; add 1 cup water; whisk until the salt dissolves; set aside.
  • Remove the thin, papery membrane from the back of each rack of ribs.
  • Generously season the ribs all over with salt and pepper.
  • Set up grill for direct grilling (charcoal is more accurate); preheat to medium.
  • When ready to cook, brush the grill grate, place the ribs on the hot grate, bone side down, and grill until that side is sizzling and golden brown, about 35 minutes.
  • Turn the ribs and grill meat side down until that side is sizzling and golden brown, about 25 minutes longer.
  • When fully cooked, the ribs will be nicely browned and tender enough to pull apart with your fingers.
  • The dripping fat may cause flare-ups; if this happens, move the ribs to another spot on the grate.
  • Transfer the grilled ribs to a platter or cutting board.
  • Generously brush or mop the ribs on both sides with the mop sauce.
  • Thickly sprinkle the meat side with the remaining rub to form a crust.
  • You can use all or the rub or just a part, depending on your fondness for spice.
  • Mr. Raichlen likes a crust about 1/8 inch thick; serve the ribs as whole racks, cut the racks in pieces, or carve them into individual ribs and serve any remaining rub on the side.

MEATHEAD'S MEMPHIS DUST RUB



MEATHEAD'S MEMPHIS DUST RUB image

Categories     Pork     Quick & Easy     Backyard BBQ

Yield 3 Cups

Number Of Ingredients 9

3/4 cup firmly packed dark brown sugar
3/4 cup white sugar
1/2 cup paprika
1/4 cup kosher salt
1/4 cup garlic powder
2 tablespoons ground black pepper
2 tablespoons ground ginger powder
2 tablespoons onion powder
2 teaspoons rosemary powder

Steps:

  • Mix all ingredients together.

MEMPHIS RUB BY STEVEN RAICHLEN



Memphis Rub by Steven Raichlen image

We found this recipe in his amazing cookbook and off his cooking show. This is made for Beer can chicken, but can also be used on ribs. I hate salt,so I never use it in this recipe, but if you are salt lovers, go for it!!

Provided by dragonpawz

Categories     < 15 Mins

Time 15m

Yield 4 serving(s)

Number Of Ingredients 10

1/4 cup paprika
1 tablespoon dark brown sugar
1 tablespoon sugar
2 teaspoons salt
1 teaspoon celery salt
1 teaspoon ground black pepper
1 -3 teaspoon cayenne pepper
1 teaspoon dry mustard
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder

Steps:

  • Mix all ingredients together, using the cayenne pepper to your heat preference.
  • Rub on a whole chicken for beer can chicken, or a rack of ribs.
  • Makes about a half a cup of rub.

MEMPHIS-STYLE RUB



Memphis-Style Rub image

A Memphis style rub that I use primarily on pork butts and ribs prior to smoking. I usually coat the meat with the rub and let rest 24 to 48 hours wrapped in plastic wrap. I then sprinkle a light second application immediately before putting the meat into the smoker. Store in an airtight container in a cool, dark place.

Provided by Tania

Categories     Side Dish     Sauces and Condiments Recipes

Time 15m

Yield 6

Number Of Ingredients 13

¼ cup paprika
3 tablespoons chili powder
2 tablespoons turbinado sugar
2 teaspoons salt
2 teaspoons garlic powder
2 teaspoons ground cumin
2 teaspoons dried oregano
2 teaspoons ground thyme
1 teaspoon celery salt
1 teaspoon ground black pepper
1 teaspoon dry mustard
1 teaspoon onion powder
½ teaspoon cayenne pepper

Steps:

  • Whisk paprika, chili powder, turbinado sugar, salt, garlic powder, cumin, oregano, thyme, celery salt, black pepper, mustard, onion powder, and cayenne pepper together in a bowl.

Nutrition Facts : Calories 55.4 calories, Carbohydrate 11.1 g, Fat 1.8 g, Fiber 3.8 g, Protein 1.8 g, SaturatedFat 0.3 g, Sodium 1067.8 mg, Sugar 5.1 g

RUBY TUESDAY'S MEMPHIS DRY RUB RIBS COPYCAT



Ruby Tuesday's Memphis Dry Rub Ribs Copycat image

Menu description - "Hang Off The Plate Ribs® A colossal portion of fork-tender premium baby back ribs. Slow-cooked for hours and seasoned with our secret spices. They've got attitude!" recipelink.com (Adapted from source: BBQ USA: 425 Fiery Recipes from All Across America by Steven Raichlen)

Provided by Chef GreanEyes

Categories     Pork

Time 40m

Yield 1 rack ribs, 4 serving(s)

Number Of Ingredients 12

2 tablespoons paprika
1 tablespoon black pepper
1 tablespoon dark brown sugar
1 1/2 teaspoons salt
1 1/2 teaspoons celery salt
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon dry mustard
1 teaspoon cumin
1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
1 pinch onion powder
1 rack baby back ribs
barbecue sauce (Stubb's Mopin Sauce BBQ Baste)

Steps:

  • Mix all dry ingredients in a bowl.
  • Rub 2/3 of the mixture onto front and back of ribs.
  • Lightly brush on barbecue sauce.
  • Grill.
  • Sprinkle remaining Rub onto top of ribs after grilling.

BEER CAN CHICKEN WITH MEMPHIS RUB



Beer Can Chicken With Memphis Rub image

A great beer can chicken recipe. The Memphis rub really makes it good. Directions include instructions for both gas and charcoal grills. From Bon Appetit.

Provided by lazyme

Categories     Whole Chicken

Time 2h30m

Yield 4 serving(s)

Number Of Ingredients 13

5 lbs whole chickens
12 ounces beer
1/4 cup paprika
1 tablespoon packed dark brown sugar
1 tablespoon sugar
2 teaspoons salt
2 teaspoons Accent seasoning (optional)
1 teaspoon celery salt
1 teaspoon pepper
2 teaspoons cayenne
1 teaspoon dry mustard
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder

Steps:

  • Remove and discard the fat just inside the body cavities of the chicken. Remove the package of giblets, and set aside for another use. Rinse the chicken, inside and out, under cold running water, then drain and blot dry, inside and out, with paper towels.
  • Sprinkle 1 tablespoon of the rub inside the body and neck cavities, then rub another 1 tablespoon all over the skin of the bird. If you wish, rub another 1/2 tablespoon of the mixture between the flesh and the skin. Cover and refrigerate the chicken while you preheat the grill.
  • Set up the grill for indirect grilling (see instructions below) placing a drip pan in the center. If using a charcoal grill, preheat it to medium.
  • If using a gas grill, place all the wood chips in the smoker box and preheat the grill to high; then, when smoke appears, lower the heat to medium.
  • Pop the tab on the beer can. Using a "church key" style can opener, make 6 or 7 holes in the top of the can. Pour out the top inch of beer, then spoon the remaining dry rub through the holes into the beer. Holding the chicken upright, with the opening of the body cavity down, insert the beer can into the cavity. (Caution: the beer fizzes when you add the rub!).
  • When ready to cook, if using charcoal, toss half the wood chips on the coals. Oil the grill grate. Stand the chicken up in the center of the hot grate, over the drip pan. Spread out the legs to form a sort of tripod, to support the bird.
  • Cover the grill and cook the chicken until fall-off-the-bone tender, 2 hours. If using charcoal, add 10 to 12 fresh coals per side and the remaining wood chips after 1 hour.
  • Using tongs, lift the bird to a cutting board or platter, holding the metal spatula underneath the beer can for support. (Have the board or platter right next to the bird to make the move shorter. Be careful not to spill hot beer on yourself.) Let stand for 5 minutes before carving the meat off the upright carcass. (Toss the beer can out along with the carcass.).
  • Memphis Rub:.
  • Combine all the ingredients in a jar, twist the lid on airtight, and shake to mix. Store away from heat or light for up to six months. Makes about 1/2 cup. Enough for 4 to 6 racks of ribs.
  • ** Indirect grilling on a Charcoal Grill:.
  • To set up you grill for indirect grilling, light the coals. When they are blazing red, use tongs to transfer them to opposite sides of the grill, arranging them in two piles. Some grills have special half-moon-shaped baskets to hold the coals at the sides; others have wire fences that hook onto the bottom gate. Let the coals burn until they are covered with a thin layer of gray ash. Set the drip pan in the center of the grill, between the mounds of coals. Place the food on the grate over the drip pan, and cover the grill. You'll need to add about 10 to 12 fresh briquettes to each side after an hour of cooking.
  • If you want to add a smoke flavor, add 1 to 2 cups of presoaked wood chips, or 2 to 4 chunks, to the coals just before you start to cook, and again whenever you replenish the coals.

MEMPHIS DRY-RUB MUSHROOMS



Memphis Dry-Rub Mushrooms image

This showstopper - using a dry rub adapted from Greg Collier, the chef and co-owner of Leah & Louise in Charlotte, N.C. - is an opportunity to explore different mushroom varieties. Black oyster mushrooms give a brawny bite, and effortlessly hold the soulful seasoning while getting the crispest, crunchiest edges. Fuzzy white lion's mane or even portobellos work, too; just buy the biggest mushrooms you can find. This recipe uses Worcestershire sauce, which typically includes anchovies, so be sure to seek out vegan Worcestershire if you'd like to make the dish vegan. Serve with sweet potato pikliz.

Provided by Nicole Taylor

Categories     barbecues, vegetables, main course, side dish

Time 45m

Yield 3 to 6 servings

Number Of Ingredients 11

1/2 (packed) cup dark brown sugar
1/4 cup hot paprika
2 tablespoons kosher salt
2 tablespoons onion powder
2 tablespoons garlic powder
1 tablespoon ground black pepper
1 1/2 teaspoons cumin seed
1 1/2 teaspoons dry mustard
2 pounds large clusters of black oyster mushrooms or lion's mane, or portobello mushrooms
1/2 cup canola oil or grapeseed oil
1/4 cup Worcestershire sauce

Steps:

  • Make the rub: In a large bowl, combine all rub ingredients and mix well. Reserve 1/4 cup rub for the mushrooms and put the rest in an airtight container for another use, such as chicken, salmon or cauliflower.
  • Prepare the mushrooms: Heat the oven to 400 degrees. Using a slightly damp kitchen towel, wipe the mushrooms to remove any dirt. (Don't rinse the mushrooms or submerge them in water.) Carefully cut or tear the mushrooms into 6 large pieces about the size of a hand.
  • Place the mushrooms on a large sheet pan and drizzle them with the oil and Worcestershire sauce. Gently massage the reserved 1/4 cup dry rub into the nooks and crannies of the mushrooms.
  • Roast the mushrooms on the top rack until deeply browned and crisp at the edges, about 40 minutes.

MEMPHIS RUB BEER CAN CHICKEN RECIPE - (4/5)



Memphis Rub Beer Can Chicken Recipe - (4/5) image

Provided by Tufgrlz

Number Of Ingredients 14

Memphis Rub:
1 medium whole chicken (4 to 5 lbs.)
2 1/2 Tbs. of Memphis Rub (recipe follows) or your own rub
1 can beer at room temperature.
1/4 cup paprika
1 Tbs. dark brown sugar
1 Tbs. sugar
2 tsp. salt
1 tsp. celery salt
1 tsp. black pepper
1 tsp. dry mustard
1 tsp. garlic powder or finely minced garlic
1 tsp. onion powder or finely minced onion
1-3 tsp. cayenne pepper, to taste

Steps:

  • Rinse chicken inside and out, drain and pat dry. Sprinkle 1 Tbs. of the rub inside the neck and body cavity, then rub another 1 Tbs. all over the skin of the bird. Pop the tab on the beer can. Using a "church-key"-style can opener, make 6 or 7 holes in the top of the can. Drink or pour out the top inch of beer, then spoon the remaining dry rub through the holes into the beer. Holding the chicken upright, push the chicken down onto the beer can so that the can goes into the cavity. Stand the "stuffed" chicken on a roasting pan. The bottom of the beer can and the two legs from a triangular support. If the chicken is too big and the beer can unstable, buttress the legs with skewers. No trussing or further basting is necessary. Preheat the over to 350. Roast about 2 hours until the skin is crisp and the juices run clear when the bird is poked with the tip of a knife. Allow the finished bird to rest before carving.

DAVE'S MEMPHIS RIB RUB



Dave's Memphis Rib Rub image

The ultimate rub for both Memphis and St Louis Style ribs. Rub the ribs at least 12 hours and up to 24 hours before smoking.

Provided by drollens

Categories     Pork

Time 4h30m

Yield 6 Racks, 6 serving(s)

Number Of Ingredients 17

1 cup dark brown sugar
1/2 cup unbleached cane sugar
1/2 cup kosher salt
1 teaspoon dried thyme
1 tablespoon onion powder
1 tablespoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon cayenne
1 teaspoon dried chipotle powder
1 teaspoon five-spice powder
2 teaspoons smoked paprika
1 teaspoon sweet paprika
1 tablespoon cilantro
1 tablespoon italian seasoning
1 tablespoon peppercorn
1 tablespoon mustard seeds
1 teaspoon lemon peel
1 teaspoon cumin seed

Steps:

  • Grinf Peppercorns, Mustard, Lemon Peel, and Cumin Seed. Mix with all other ingredients and rub both sides of ribs, heavier on top. Smoke at 225 degrees for 4 to 6 hours or cook in a covered roasting pan in a 275 degree oven for 4 hours. Finish on a medium hot grill, basting with BBQ sauce until dark brown and well glazed.

Nutrition Facts : Calories 270.3, Fat 1.5, SaturatedFat 0.2, Sodium 9459.5, Carbohydrate 67.2, Fiber 5.7, Sugar 53.1, Protein 3

MEMPHIS RUB



MEMPHIS RUB image

Categories     Condiment/Spread     Pork

Yield 2 cups

Number Of Ingredients 14

•1/2 cup paprika
•1/4 cup garlic powder
•1/4 cup mild chili powder (use medium or hot to kick up the heat)
•3 tablespoons salt
•3 tablespoons black pepper
•2 tablespoons onion powder
•2 tablespoons celery seeds
•1 tablespoon brown sugar
•1 tablespoon dried oregano
•1 tablespoon dried thyme
•3 teaspoons cumin
•2 teaspoons dry mustard
•2 teaspoons ground coriander
•2 teaspoons ground allspice

Steps:

  • Mix together all ingredients until well combined. Store in an airtight container. May be stored for up to 6 months.

Tips:

  • Use high-quality ingredients. Freshly ground spices, brown sugar, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and cayenne pepper are essential for a flavorful rub.
  • Mix the rub thoroughly. Use a bowl or resealable bag to combine the ingredients until they are evenly distributed.
  • Apply the rub generously. Use your hands to rub the mixture evenly over the meat, ensuring it gets into all the nooks and crannies.
  • Let the meat rest. Allow the rub to sit on the meat for at least 30 minutes, or up to overnight, to allow the flavors to penetrate.
  • Cook the meat according to your desired doneness. Memphis-style ribs are typically cooked low and slow, but you can adjust the cooking time depending on your preferences.

Conclusion:

This Memphis rub recipe is a versatile blend of spices that can be used on a variety of meats. Its smoky, sweet, and slightly spicy flavor will add a delicious touch to your next barbecue. Whether you are a seasoned grill master or a beginner, this rub is sure to impress your friends and family. So fire up the grill and get ready to enjoy some mouthwatering Memphis-style barbecue!

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