New to BBQ Rubs? Start here
Welcome. If you're here, you've probably just started with BBQ rubs—or you're considering it. Good idea. A rub transforms meat from ordinary to unforgettable, and all you need is a bag, a grill, and some time.
This page is your starting point. Here you'll find exactly what you need to place your first order without a doubt.
What exactly are BBQ rubs?
A BBQ rub is a dry spice blend—not a sauce, not a marinade. You rub it on the meat before grilling. The spices penetrate the outer layer and, during grilling, form a flavorful, roasted crust: the bark.
At The Rub Kitchen, all rubs are freshly mixed to order—no fillers, no anti-caking agents, no artificial flavors. Just spices.
50g (2-3 evenings), 100g (5-6 evenings), 500g (for the regular griller).
Which rub should you choose as a beginner?
Start with a versatile rub that everyone will like. Our recommendation for beginners:
- Memphis BBQ Rub — sweet-smoky, the classic. Works on chicken, ribs, and pulled pork.
- Carolina Gold — mild and universal. The safest choice if you don't know what you like.
- Korean BBQ Rub — sweet-spicy. Irresistible on air-fried or BBQ chicken wings.
Use the selection guide — 3 questions and you'll know.
How to use a rub?
Four steps, that's all it takes:
- Pat the meat dry with paper towels
- Optionally apply a thin layer of oil as a binding agent
- Rub generously into all sides
- Let it marinate for at least 30 minutes (overnight gives the deepest flavor)
20–30g per kilogram of meat for chicken and ribs. 40–50g per kilogram for pulled pork and brisket.
What's your first dish?
Chicken is the easiest beginner's meat. Forgiving, cooks quickly, and any rub works on it. Our recommendation:
- Air-fried chicken wings with Korean BBQ Rub — 20 minutes, 200°C, flip halfway
- BBQ chicken thighs with Memphis BBQ Rub — indirect at 180°C, core temperature 80°C
- Oven-baked ribs with Memphis BBQ Rub — 3 hours at 150°C in foil, then 30 minutes without
- → Which rub for which meat? Complete overview
- → What is a BBQ rub? Meaning, use, and types
- → BBQ Tips for Beginners From lighting the fire to core temperature
- → Gluten-free, sugar-free & allergens Full overview per dietary need
Ready for your first rub?
Freshly mixed to order. Free shipping from €35.
Starter Pack · 3 flavorsSelection Guide