💡 BBQ Tip: Why Rubs Cake — and How to Prevent It
Ever open your favorite BBQ rub only to find it clumpy or stuck together? That’s called caking, and it happens when moisture sneaks into your seasoning. Even a little humidity can cause the salts and sugars in your rubs to bind — not great when you’re trying to shake it onto ribs or brisket. Here are 5 tips to keep your rubs free-flowing and competition-ready: 1. Seal it tight: Always make sure the lid is completely sealed after each use. Even a tiny gap can let moisture in. 2. Avoid heat and steam: Don’t open or store your rubs near steam, your smoker, or the stove — condensation will form fast. 3. Use a plastic wrap barrier: Before screwing the lid back on, place a piece of plastic wrap under the cap for an extra moisture seal. 4. Store in a cool, dry spot: Keep rubs out of direct sunlight and away from your prep area where humidity builds up. 5. Shake it before you use it: If your rub sits for a while, give it a quick shake to redistribute ingredients evenly. Keep those bottles fresh, your rubs ready to roll, and your BBQ tasting just the way Big Poppa intended.