Best Spice Blends & Rubs

Labor Day marks the unofficial end of summer, a day dedicated to celebrating the hard work of American workers with relaxation, good company, and, of course, delicious food. Whether you’re hosting a backyard barbecue, joining a community picnic, or simply enjoying a meal outdoors with family and friends, Labor Day is synonymous with great food. As we fire up the grills and prepare a feast, one of the key elements that can take your cooking to the next level is the right blend of spices.

 

Spice blends and rubs are essential for adding depth, flavor, and a little kick to your meals. Whether you’re grilling meats, roasting vegetables, or even seasoning sides, the right combination of spices can transform your dish from ordinary to extraordinary. With Labor Day just around the corner, now is the perfect time to explore the best spice blends and rubs to elevate your cooking. In this article, we’ve curated the top blends and rubs to help you create memorable dishes, complete with precise measurements and regional insights.

 And before we dive in, I may get a small commission at no cost to you if you buy anything from the link I provide. Now lets go.

1. Barbecue Rub

Popular in: Southern United States, especially in states like Tennessee and the Carolinas.

This barbecue rub is a general representation of Southern BBQ flavors, but it’s important to note that different regions within the South have their unique twists on barbecue. For instance, Memphis BBQ might lean more on dry rubs, while the Carolinas are known for their vinegar-based sauces. This rub combines the sweet, smoky, and spicy elements common across many Southern BBQ styles.

Ingredients:

• 2 tablespoons paprika
• 2 tablespoons brown sugar
• 1 tablespoon garlic powder
• 1 tablespoon onion powder
• 1 tablespoon chili powder
• 1 tablespoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper
• 1 teaspoon mustard powder

Perfect for: Ribs, chicken, and grilled vegetables. The balance of sweet, smoky, and spicy flavors is what makes this rub a crowd-pleaser.

Buy: Noble Made by The New Primal, Organic Classic Barbeque Seasoning, 2.5 Ounce

2. Cajun Seasoning

Popular in: Louisiana and other Gulf Coast states.

Cajun seasoning is a cornerstone of Louisiana cuisine, known for its bold and spicy flavors. This blend captures the essence of Cajun cooking, where balance between heat, herbs, and spices is key.

Ingredients:

• 2 tablespoons paprika
• 1 tablespoon cayenne pepper
• 1 tablespoon garlic powder
• 1 tablespoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon oregano
• 1 teaspoon thyme
• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon white pepper

Perfect for: Shrimp, chicken, and sausage. Adjust the cayenne pepper to control the heat.

Buy: Frontier Co-op Organic Cajun Seasoning, 2.08-Ounce Jar, Authentic Louisiana Flavor For Southern Delicacies, Kosher, Non GMO

3. Jerk Seasoning

Popular in: Caribbean communities, particularly in Florida and New York.

Jerk seasoning originates from Jamaica but has become a staple in Caribbean communities across the U.S., especially in areas like Miami and New York City. This blend is known for its fiery heat and complex mix of spices.

Ingredients:

• 1 tablespoon allspice
• 1 tablespoon thyme
• 1 tablespoon cinnamon
• 1 teaspoon nutmeg
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 tablespoon brown sugar

Perfect for: Chicken and pork. This blend combines sweet, spicy, and earthy flavors for a taste of the Caribbean.

Buy: Sugar 'N Spice Organic Nice Spice, Jammin' Jerk Seasoning (2.3 Ounce, Glass)

4. Mediterranean Herb Blend

Popular in: California and the West Coast, as well as other regions with a focus on health-conscious and diverse cuisine.

This herb blend reflects the Mediterranean influence popular on the West Coast, where fresh, light flavors are often paired with seafood and grilled vegetables. It’s also embraced in other health-conscious regions across the country.

Ingredients:

• 1 tablespoon oregano
• 1 tablespoon thyme
• 1 tablespoon rosemary
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon lemon zest

Perfect for: Fish, chicken, and grilled vegetables. This light and fragrant blend adds a burst of fresh flavor.

Buy: McCormick Gourmet Global Selects Mediterranean Herb & Salt Blend, 1.62 oz

5. Southwest Spice Blend

Popular in: Southwestern United States, particularly Arizona, New Mexico, and Texas.

This blend captures the bold, smoky flavors characteristic of the Southwestern U.S. Cumin, chili powder, and paprika are staples in Southwestern cuisine, bringing warmth and depth to grilled meats and vegetables.

Ingredients:

• 2 tablespoons cumin
• 2 tablespoons chili powder
• 1 tablespoon paprika
• 1 tablespoon garlic powder
• 1 tablespoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper
• 1 teaspoon oregano
• 1 teaspoon black pepper

Perfect for: Steaks, chicken, and grilled corn. The smokiness of the cumin and chili powder brings a rich, earthy flavor to your dishes.

Buy: Southwest Seasoning By Penzeys Spices 1.2 oz 1/4 cup jar (Pack of 1)

6. Kansas City BBQ Rub

Popular inn: Kansas City area.

Kansas City BBQ is known for its thick, sweet sauces and rubs that emphasize a balance of sweetness and spice. This rub is a classic example of what makes Kansas City BBQ so beloved.

Ingredients:

• 2 tablespoons brown sugar
• 2 tablespoons paprika
• 1 tablespoon chili powder
• 1 tablespoon garlic powder
• 1 tablespoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon mustard powder
• 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• 1 teaspoon black pepper

Perfect for: Ribs and pulled pork. The sugar-to-spice ratio in this rub is key to creating that perfect caramelized crust on your meat.

Buy: Three Little Pigs Kansas City Sweet Rub 6.5 Ounce

 

7. Garlic Herb Butter Rub

Popular in: Pacific Northwest and New England, as well as other areas known for their focus on fresh, local ingredients.

This rub is a staple in regions where fresh herbs and dairy are central to the cuisine, such as the Pacific Northwest and New England. The combination of herbs and butter makes it versatile for a variety of dishes.

Ingredients:

• 2 tablespoons garlic powder
• 1 tablespoon thyme
• 1 tablespoon rosemary
• 1 tablespoon parsley
• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 cup softened butter

Perfect for: Corn, chicken, or seafood. This rich, savory rub is perfect for adding a buttery, herb-infused flavor to your dishes.

Buy: Angus & Oink | Garlic Butter Rub | Garlic and Herb Powder Seasoning Rub | Perfect For Chicken, Fries and Potatoes | Gluten-Free, No Preservatives | 215g

8. Za’atar

Popular in: Middle Eastern communities in urban areas like New York City, Los Angeles, Detroit, and Dearborn, Michigan.

Za’atar is a blend that has been embraced in Middle Eastern communities across the U.S. It’s particularly popular in areas with large Middle Eastern populations, adding a tangy, earthy flavor to a variety of dishes.

Ingredients:

• 2 tablespoons sumac
• 1 tablespoon thyme
• 1 tablespoon sesame seeds
• 1 tablespoon oregano
• 1 tablespoon marjoram

Perfect for: Grilled vegetables or bread. This Middle Eastern blend adds a tangy, earthy flavor to simple grilled dishes.

Buy: Watkins Organic Za'atar Seasoning, Spice Mix, 2.6 oz., 1 Count

9. Texas Brisket Rub

Popular in: Texas.

Texas is synonymous with brisket, and this rub is a classic example of the straightforward, bold flavors that define Texas BBQ. It focuses on enhancing the natural taste of the meat with a few key spices.

Ingredients:

• 2 tablespoons black pepper
• 1 tablespoon salt
• 1 tablespoon paprika
• 1 tablespoon garlic powder
• 1 tablespoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper

Perfect for: Slow-cooked or grilled brisket. This straightforward rub emphasizes the deep, smoky flavors that develop during a long cook.

Buy: Smoke Trails BBQ BRISKET RUB | BBQ Rub for Texas Brisket by Steve Gow | Great on Brisket, Beef Short Ribs, Steaks, and more

10. Peri-Peri Spice Mix

Popular in: Influenced by African and Portuguese communities, particularly in urban areas like Boston, Los Angeles, New York City, and Washington, D.C.

Peri-Peri, with its roots in African and Portuguese cuisine, has found a home in diverse urban areas across the U.S. This fiery blend is known for its bold heat and tangy zest, perfect for grilled dishes.

Ingredients:

• 2 tablespoons paprika
• 1 tablespoon cayenne pepper
• 1 tablespoon oregano
• 1 tablespoon garlic powder
• 1 tablespoon onion powder
• 1 tablespoon lemon zest

Perfect for: Chicken or seafood. This fiery blend brings a burst of heat and tangy zest that’s unmistakably bold.

Buy: DiChickO's Peri Peri Rub - Bold Flavor Peri Peri Seasoning - 11 Oz Piri Piri Masala Jar - All Natural Piri Piri Powder Spice Mix for BBQ, Grilling, Seafood, French Fries and Roasting - Made in USA

The Importance of Accurate Measurement

When it comes to creating these spice blends, precision is key. The balance of flavors in each blend depends on the correct proportions of each spice. Too much or too little of any ingredient can throw off the taste, making your food overly spicy, too sweet, or just plain bland.

At Pynch Kitchen, we understand the importance of getting it just right. That’s why we’re working on something that will make measuring spices easier and more accurate than ever before. Our upcoming product will help you dispense and measure spices with precision, ensuring that your recipes turn out perfectly every time, whether you’re a seasoned cook or a casual griller.

Stay Tuned: Simplify Your Cooking with Pynch Kitchen

We’re excited to make cooking easier and more enjoyable for everyone. Sign up for our waitlist to be the first to know when our innovative spice measuring tool is available. Let’s make your kitchen time simpler, more precise, and a lot more fun.

Join our waitlist now (See below) and get ready to elevate your cooking game with Pynch Kitchen!