Tex-Mex BBQ Rub — Everything You Need to Know

Cumin and chilli lead the way, Mexican oregano adds a herbal note and smoked paprika brings smoky depth. Tex-Mex is a spicy, smoky dry rub for anyone who likes BBQ with character.

Bag of Tex-Mex BBQ Rub with a red label and viewing window
Tex-Mex BBQ Rub. The ingredients are listed below; check the packaging for current allergen information.

Flavour profile and ingredients

The rub contains cumin, Kashmiri mirch (chilli powder), fine sea salt, garlic powder, cayenne pepper, smoked paprika, Mexican oregano and black pepper.

Cumin brings earthy warmth, smoked paprika adds smoky notes, and chilli and cayenne provide heat. How hot your dish tastes depends on how much rub you use and the other ingredients you add.

Check the current packaging for the full ingredients, allergens and seasoning guidance. Also take account of any binders, sauces and side dishes you add yourself.

What can you use Tex-Mex for?

The combination of cumin, chilli and smoked paprika suits a range of grilled dishes. Mexican oregano adds a herbal undertone.

  • Chicken: thighs, wings or a whole rotisserie chicken.
  • Brisket: for a spicy low & slow cook.
  • Minced beef: for BBQ burgers or grilled tacos.
  • Vegetables: for example, corn, peppers and courgettes.

We blend the rub to order.

Order Tex-Mex BBQ Rub · 3-Evening Pack: three rubs of your choice

Recipes with Tex-Mex BBQ Rub

How much rub to use

Follow the seasoning guidance on the current packaging. Spread the rub evenly and consider its salt and heat, especially if you also use a seasoned sauce or other flavourings.

For raw meat, put a separate working portion of rub in a small bowl first. Keep the rest clean and dry; do not return rub that has touched raw meat to the bag.

Technique and tips

Pat the meat dry and apply an even layer of rub. If seasoning ahead, keep the meat covered in the fridge until cooking. A thin coating of oil as a binder is optional.

Use a food thermometer and cook chicken to at least 74°C (165°F) in the thickest part, without touching bone. Adjust your cooking to the cut and your equipment rather than relying on a fixed grilling time.

The rub also works in the oven. Watch the colour and avoid prolonged direct heat: herbs and spices can burn before the food is cooked through.

More about the flavourings

Read about the history, origins and traditions of Tex-Mex BBQ Rub.

Order Tex-Mex BBQ Rub

We blend our rubs to order. The spices come from Kerala, India; Tex-Mex refers to the culinary inspiration.

Explore Tex-Mex BBQ Rub · Discover three flavours with the Starter Pack

Learn more about BBQ herbs and spices

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