If there’s one thing we can all agree on, it’s that a great barbecue starts with the perfect rub. Meathead’s Memphis Dust is a game-changer for anyone who loves bold, smoky, and slightly sweet flavors in their grilled or smoked meats. This legendary dry rub has become a favorite among BBQ enthusiasts, and for good reason—it’s versatile, easy to make, and packed with flavor.
What makes Memphis Dust so special is its balance of spices that enhance the natural taste of the meat without overpowering it. Whether we’re slow-smoking ribs, grilling chicken, or even seasoning veggies, this rub adds that irresistible touch of Southern charm. It’s a must-have for backyard cookouts or anytime we want to elevate our barbecue game.
Meatheads Memphis Dust Recipe
Creating Meathead’s Memphis Dust at home is incredibly simple and satisfying. This spice blend is a perfect balance of sweetness, smokiness, and a subtle kick that brings out the natural flavors of your meat.
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Below is the list of ingredients required to prepare this iconic BBQ rub. Gather and measure them precisely for the best results.
- 3/4 cup white sugar
- 3/4 cup brown sugar, tightly packed
- 1/2 cup paprika
- 3 tablespoons ground black pepper
- 3 tablespoons ginger powder
- 2 tablespoons garlic powder
- 2 tablespoons onion powder
- 1 teaspoon rosemary powder, finely ground
Mixing the Memphis Dust:
- Measure and prep: Start by carefully measuring out all the listed ingredients. Precision is the key to getting the perfect flavor balance.
- Combine the dry ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, add the white sugar, brown sugar, and the paprika first. Stir them gently to break any clumps. The brown sugar may need particular attention as it tends to clump.
- Add the other spices — ground black pepper, ginger powder, garlic powder, onion powder, and rosemary powder — into the bowl one by one.
- Mix thoroughly: Use a whisk or your hands to combine all the spices evenly. Make sure there are no pockets of any one ingredient. The mix should appear homogenous, displaying a rich red hue from the paprika combined with the deep tones of brown sugar.
- Taste testing: Though optional, tasting a pinch of the dust allows you to adjust the balance. Add a bit more sugar if you prefer a sweeter profile or extra black pepper for more heat.
Pro Tip: “Store the Memphis Dust in an airtight container or a mason jar to maintain freshness. Label the jar with the date, as the mix stays fresh for up to 6 months in a cool, dark place.”
Suggested Uses:
This rub shines on pork ribs, chicken, turkey, and even veggies. Apply generously to your meat, rubbing it evenly into all nooks and crannies. For the best flavor infusion, let the meat rest with the dust applied for at least 30 minutes to 2 hours before cooking.
Ingredients
To create Meathead’s Memphis Dust, we’ll need a precise blend of key spices and sugars. This highly versatile barbecue rub showcases bold flavors balanced with a hint of sweetness and aromatic spices. Here’s the full breakdown of what you’ll need to prepare this flavorful rub:
Dry Ingredients:
- ¾ cup white sugar
- ¾ cup packed dark brown sugar (for deeper molasses-like sweetness)
- ½ cup paprika (regular or smoked for added depth; choose as per preference)
- ¼ cup garlic powder (aromatic and savory element)
- 2 tablespoons ground black pepper (delivers a hint of spice)
- 2 tablespoons ground ginger powder (adds warmth and subtle complexity)
- 2 tablespoons onion powder (enhances the savory notes)
- 2 teaspoons dried rosemary (powdered for better consistency in the mix)
Notes:
- Paprika: Opt for smoked paprika if you want a richer, smoky undertone.
- Brown Sugar: Ensure it’s properly packed into your measuring cup for accurate results.
- Rosemary Powder: If whole dried rosemary is all you have, simply grind it finely before mixing.
Ingredient Measurements Table:
| Ingredient | Measurement | Flavor Contribution |
|---|---|---|
| White Sugar | ¾ cup | Sweetness, caramelization during cooking |
| Dark Brown Sugar | ¾ cup (packed) | Molasses-like depth, enhances bark formation |
| Paprika | ½ cup | Smoky earthiness |
| Garlic Powder | ¼ cup | Savory, aromatic |
| Ground Black Pepper | 2 tablespoons | Mild heat, depth |
| Ground Ginger Powder | 2 tablespoons | Warm spice, subtle kick |
| Onion Powder | 2 tablespoons | Savory enhancement, slight spice |
| Dried Rosemary (powdered) | 2 teaspoons | Herbal aroma, earthy balance |
Tools And Equipment
Creating Meathead’s Memphis Dust requires minimal tools, but the right equipment ensures accuracy, ease, and consistent results. Below, we’ve detailed what you’ll need to measure, mix, store, and apply this famous barbecue rub effectively.
Essential Tools
- Measuring Spoons and Cups: Precise measurement is key for balancing flavors. Use a set of spoons and cups for all ingredients, ensuring accuracy for items like packed brown sugar and granulated white sugar.
- Mixing Bowl: A medium-sized bowl works perfectly for combining the spice blend thoroughly without spills.
- Whisk or Fork: For evenly blending the ingredients, a small whisk or fork helps to break up any clumps, especially in brown sugar or dried powders.
- Mortar and Pestle (Optional): If using whole dried rosemary, grind it finely with a mortar and pestle for a consistent texture.
- Airtight Containers: Store the finished rub in glass jars or plastic containers with tight seals to maintain its potency and freshness over time.
Recommended Equipment for Application
- Shaker Bottle: Transfer the rub to a shaker bottle for even and controlled application on meat or vegetables.
- Pastry Brush or Hands: For a thicker coating or to massage the spices into the meat, a food-grade pastry brush or our hands work better than a shaker.
- Kitchen Scale (Optional): If we prefer metric precision or scaling up the recipe for larger batches, a kitchen scale helps accurately weigh the ingredients.
Quick Checklist Table
| Tool | Purpose | Optional? |
|---|---|---|
| Measuring spoons & cups | Accurate ingredient measurements | No |
| Medium mixing bowl | Blending the spice rub thoroughly | No |
| Whisk or fork | Clump-free mixing | No |
| Mortar and pestle | Grinding whole spices like rosemary | Yes |
| Airtight containers | Storing rub for freshness | No |
| Shaker bottle | Easy and even rub application | Yes |
| Pastry brush/hands | Thorough spice application | Yes |
| Kitchen scale | Precise ingredient scaling | Yes |
By gathering these tools and equipment, we ensure that preparing and applying Meathead’s Memphis Dust is a seamless process that delivers an exceptional flavor experience every time.
Directions
Creating Meathead’s Memphis Dust is simple and rewarding when you follow these steps. Let’s break it down into clear stages to ensure a perfectly blended rub every time.
Prep
- Gather all tools and equipment listed earlier for seamless preparation. This includes a mixing bowl, whisk or fork, measuring spoons, and optional tools like a kitchen scale or mortar and pestle.
- Ensure all your ingredients are fresh and properly measured for accurate flavor balance. Refer to the table below for quick recall of ingredient quantities and their purpose.
| Ingredient | Quantity | Flavor Contribution |
|---|---|---|
| White sugar | 1/2 cup | Sweetness and caramelization |
| Packed dark brown sugar | 1/2 cup | Deep molasses-like sweetness |
| Paprika | 1/2 cup | Mild smokiness and robust color |
| Kosher salt | 1/4 cup | Enhances all other flavors |
| Ground black pepper | 2 tbsp | Warm, subtle heat |
| Ground ginger powder | 2 tsp | Aromatic and faintly spicy undertones |
| Garlic powder | 2 tsp | Bold, savory richness |
| Onion powder | 2 tsp | Sweet and aromatic base |
| Dried rosemary powder | 1 tsp | Herbaceous, earthy notes |
- For optimal texture, grind your dried rosemary finely using a mortar and pestle or spice grinder.
Mix The Ingredients
- Add all measured ingredients to a mixing bowl.
- Using a whisk or fork, thoroughly blend the spices together until the mixture becomes uniform in color and texture. Look for a consistent reddish-brown appearance with no visible clumps or uneven distribution of spices.
- If grinding spices manually, incorporate them at this stage to ensure seamless integration with the mix.
- Take a moment to savor the aromatic blend—this is where the magic of Memphis Dust lives!
Pro Tip: For an extra smoky flavor, consider swapping out regular paprika with smoked paprika in the same quantity without altering the proportions.
Store The Rub
- Transfer the finished rub into an airtight container to preserve its freshness and potency. A glass jar with a lid or a resealable plastic bag works well.
- Label your container with the name and date to track its shelf life. Proper storage can keep your rub fresh for up to six months in a cool, dry place.
- Avoid exposing the rub to moisture or sunlight, which may cause clumping or diminish its vibrant flavors.
Pro Tip: Store smaller portions in individual spice jars for quick and convenient application during grilling or smoking sessions.
Tips For Using Meatheads Memphis Dust
When using Meathead’s Memphis Dust, there are several techniques and tips to ensure it brings out the best flavors in your dishes. By following these methods, you’ll enhance your cooking experience and guarantee outstanding results, whether you’re slow-smoking ribs or grilling chicken.
1. Apply Generously and Evenly
To achieve full flavor coverage, always apply Memphis Dust generously to your meat. Make sure to spread it evenly across the surface, rubbing it into every crevice. This ensures the spices adhere well and provide a consistent flavor in every bite. For larger cuts like pork shoulder, don’t hesitate to coat every side liberally, enhancing the bark.
2. Let the Rub Rest
Allowing the meat to rest after applying the rub is critical for flavor infusion. We recommend letting it sit for at least 1 to 4 hours in the refrigerator. For stronger flavor penetration, overnight resting works best.
3. Pair It With the Right Cooking Methods
This rub shines in slow-cooking methods like smoking and indirect grilling. The sugars in Meathead’s Memphis Dust caramelize beautifully under low, indirect heat, forming a delicious crust. Beware of high direct heat, as it may burn the sugars and turn bitter.
4. Use a Binding Agent (Optional)
For better adherence to the meat, try using a thin coating of mustard or oil before applying the rub. Although this won’t affect the flavor, it helps create a sticky surface for the spices to cling to, ensuring they stay intact during the cooking process.
5. Experiment With Versatile Uses
While Memphis Dust is famous for pork ribs and chicken, don’t shy away from experimenting. This rub works well on turkey, vegetables, and even grilled tofu or paneer. Its sweet, smoky, and slightly savory profile complements a variety of foods.
6. Achieve the Right Rub-to-Weight Ratio
The amount of rub you use depends on the weight of your meat. Here’s a quick reference guide:
| Ingredient | Recommended Measurement |
|---|---|
| Chicken (Whole/Breast) | 3 to 4 tablespoons |
| Pork Ribs (Slab) | 4 to 5 tablespoons |
| Pork Shoulder | 6 to 8 tablespoons |
| Turkey (Whole) | 8 to 10 tablespoons |
Ensure even application by using these ratios as a baseline.
7. Combine With Additional Sauces or Glazes (Optional)
Once the rub has done its work, feel free to complement the flavor with a barbecue sauce or glaze towards the end of cooking. Apply the sauce in the final 15-20 minutes to avoid over-caramelizing.
8. Store Leftover Rub Properly
To maintain the freshness and potency of your rub, store it in an airtight container away from light and heat. Proper storage ensures the flavors stay vibrant for up to six months.
By following these tips, we can maximize the potential of Meathead’s Memphis Dust, turning every meal into a barbecue masterpiece.
Make-Ahead Instructions
When it comes to barbecue rubs like Meathead’s Memphis Dust, preparing in advance is a game changer for both convenience and flavor. This rub can easily be made ahead of time and stored, so it’s ready to transform any meal into a smoky, savory sensation. Here’s how we recommend setting ourselves up for success:
1. Batch Preparation
We prefer making a large batch of Memphis Dust since it’s versatile and stores exceptionally well. To scale the recipe up, simply multiply each ingredient measurement by the same factor without altering the ratio. For example, doubling the recipe is as simple as doubling every ingredient listed. Below is a recommended quantities table for larger batches:
| Batch Size | White Sugar | Brown Sugar | Paprika | Black Pepper | Ginger Powder | Garlic Powder | Onion Powder | Rosemary Powder |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Small (1x standard) | 1/2 cup | 1/4 cup | 1/4 cup | 1 tbsp | 1 tsp | 1 tsp | 1 tsp | 1 tsp |
| Medium (2x standard) | 1 cup | 1/2 cup | 1/2 cup | 2 tbsp | 2 tsp | 2 tsp | 2 tsp | 2 tsp |
| Large (4x standard) | 2 cups | 1 cup | 1 cup | 4 tbsp | 4 tsp | 4 tsp | 4 tsp | 4 tsp |
2. Storage Tips
To keep the Memphis Dust rub fresh and aromatic, proper storage is vital.
- Use airtight containers such as mason jars or resealable plastic containers to shield the rub from moisture and air.
- Store in a cool, dark place, like a pantry or cupboard, to preserve the vibrant flavors of the spices.
- Label your container with the preparation date. We recommend using the rub within 3 months for peak freshness and potency.
3. Pre-Seasoning Meat
One of the benefits of making this rub ahead is that we can pre-season our meat before it’s time to cook.
- Generously coat the meat with the rub, ensuring even coverage.
- Wrap the seasoned meat in plastic wrap or place it in a resealable bag.
- Let the meat rest in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes or, for deeper flavor, up to 24 hours.
4. Quick Access Convenience
When we’re preparing for events like barbecues or dinner parties, having a pre-made batch of this rub saves time and effort. We recommend dividing a large batch into smaller portions so that only a specific amount is exposed to air when it’s time to use. This ensures the rest remains fresh.
With proper planning and storage, our Meathead’s Memphis Dust remains a go-to for adding a burst of flavor whenever we fire up the grill or smoker.
Variations And Substitutions
When it comes to Meathead’s Memphis Dust, there’s plenty of room for creativity. Whether you’re tweaking the recipe to suit personal preferences or working with what’s already in your pantry, the flexibility of this barbecue rub makes it easy to adjust. Below, we’ve outlined ways you can experiment with variations and substitutions to craft a rub that suits your taste.
Sweeteners
The original recipe calls for a mix of white sugar and dark brown sugar, which provides balance between sweetness and a molasses-like depth. If you’d like to shake things up:
- Substitute the white sugar with coconut sugar for a subtle caramel sweetness.
- Replace dark brown sugar with honey powder or maple sugar for a unique twist.
| Original Ingredient | Suggested Substitution | Flavor Difference |
|---|---|---|
| Dark brown sugar | Maple sugar | Adds smokiness with a hint of maple. |
| White sugar | Coconut sugar | Provides mild caramel undertones. |
| Dark brown sugar | Honey powder | Offers a deeper, floral sweetness. |
Paprika
Paprika plays a key role in adding color and subtle smoky tones. If you’d prefer, try one of these alternatives:
- Use smoked paprika for an enhanced smoky profile.
- Mix chipotle powder with sweet paprika for a bolder, spicier kick.
Garlic & Onion Flavors
The dry garlic powder and onion powder form the savory backbone of Memphis Dust. To switch things up:
- Replace garlic powder with granulated garlic for a coarser texture.
- Swap onion powder with minced dried onions for sharper flavor bursts.
Herbs & Spices
In the original recipe, ground rosemary adds herbal depth. If rosemary isn’t available:
- Use thyme or sage powder as alternatives for earthy herbal notes.
- Experiment with coriander powder for a slightly citrusy twist.
| Ingredient | Substitution | Effect on Flavor |
|---|---|---|
| Ground rosemary | Thyme | Adds mild, fresh herbiness. |
| Ground rosemary | Sage powder | Provides a warm, earthy flavor. |
| Paprika | Chipotle powder | Adds spice with smoky undertones. |
Adjusting Spice Levels
For heat lovers, consider enhancing the spice profile:
- Add cayenne pepper for extra heat.
- Include crushed red pepper flakes for a slow, steady spice.
For milder variations, simply:
- Reduce or eliminate black pepper.
- Substitute mild smoked paprika to tone down the heat.
Dietary-Friendly Alternatives
If you’re preparing the rub for someone with dietary restrictions, don’t worry. Here are some simple modifications:
- For low-sodium diets: Skip the salt entirely and let the other spices shine. You can also consider using salt-free seasoning blends to retain flavor balance.
- For a sugar-free version: Replace both sugars with monk fruit sweetener or erythritol that can withstand heat.
| Dietary Concern | Adjustment | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Low-sodium | Omit salt | Add salt individually during cooking if needed. |
| Sugar-free | Use monk fruit sweetener | Choose one designed for baking/cooking. |
Experimentation with Aromatics
Want to give Memphis Dust a personal flair? Consider adding an extra aromatic or two:
- A pinch of cinnamon for a warm, mysterious sweetness.
- A dash of nutmeg for depth and complexity.
- A sprinkle of mustard powder for tangy sharpness.
By exploring these simple variations and substitutions, we can easily fine-tune the balance, intensity, and flavor of Meathead’s Memphis Dust, ensuring that each dish it graces becomes a one-of-a-kind masterpiece.
Conclusion
Meathead’s Memphis Dust isn’t just a barbecue rub—it’s a game-changer for anyone looking to elevate their grilling or smoking experience. Its bold, balanced flavors and versatility make it a must-have for backyard cooks and barbecue enthusiasts alike.
By mastering this recipe, we can unlock endless possibilities for enhancing the natural taste of meats and even vegetables. Whether we stick to the classic recipe or experiment with variations, Memphis Dust ensures every dish is packed with flavor and creativity.
With a little preparation, the right tools, and proper storage, this rub becomes a reliable staple that transforms ordinary meals into unforgettable culinary moments. Let’s fire up the grill and make every cookout a flavorful success.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Meathead’s Memphis Dust used for?
Meathead’s Memphis Dust is a versatile barbecue rub designed to enhance the flavor of grilled or smoked meats. It works well on pork ribs, chicken, turkey, and even vegetables, adding a balanced mix of sweet, smoky, and bold flavors to your dishes.
Can I make Memphis Dust at home?
Yes, the recipe for Meathead’s Memphis Dust is simple and requires common pantry ingredients like brown sugar, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and rosemary. Mixing these ingredients at home allows you to create a fresh, flavorful rub.
How long should I let the rub sit on the meat?
For optimal flavor, let the rub sit on the meat for at least 1–2 hours before cooking. This resting period allows the spices to infuse into the meat, creating a richer taste.
Can I customize the Memphis Dust recipe?
Absolutely! You can adjust ingredients to suit your taste. For example, use coconut sugar for sweetness or swap rosemary with thyme for a different herbal note. The recipe is highly adaptable for dietary needs and flavor preferences.
How should I store Memphis Dust?
Store Memphis Dust in an airtight container in a cool, dark place to maintain its freshness. Proper storage ensures the rub retains its flavor and potency for several months.
What meats pair best with Memphis Dust?
This rub is ideal for pork ribs, chicken, turkey, and even beef. It also works great on vegetables, making it versatile for most grilling and smoking recipes.
Do I need special tools to make Memphis Dust?
You don’t need specialized tools. A mixing bowl, measuring spoons, and an airtight container for storage are sufficient. Grinding whole dried rosemary is optional for consistency.
Can I prepare Memphis Dust in advance?
Yes, Memphis Dust can be made in larger batches and stored for convenience. Make sure to keep it in airtight containers and use it within a few months for the best flavor.
Should I use a binding agent with Memphis Dust?
Using a binding agent like mustard or oil is optional, but it helps the rub stick better to the meat and ensures even coverage during cooking.
Can Memphis Dust be combined with sauces or glazes?
Yes! Memphis Dust pairs wonderfully with barbecue sauces or glazes. Apply the rub before cooking, then add sauce or glaze in the final stages for a layered flavor profile.