Not all BBQ rubs are created equal. When you’re comparing rubs, pay attention to what’s inside, not just the label.
👉 Start with the salt. Premium rubs use sea salt—it’s cleaner, has natural minerals, and dissolves evenly for better flavor absorption. Cheaper rubs often use plain table salt, which can taste harsh and leave your meat over-salted or unevenly seasoned.
👉 Look at the sugar. Real BBQ flavor comes from high-quality brown sugar or turbinado, not just refined white sugar. It caramelizes better and gives your bark that deep, mahogany color.
👉 Check for fillers. Premium rubs skip anti-caking agents and unnecessary starches. You’re paying for flavor, not fluff.
👉 Smell test. Open the jar—premium rubs hit you with complex aromas, not just salt and pepper.
When you’re investing in your cook, choose rubs built on quality ingredients. It’s the difference between “good BBQ” and “what did you put on this?!”
💬 What’s your go-to premium rub and why do you love it?