FOR TRADITIONAL BARBECUE & CONTEMPORARY SMOKED FOOD
The amount of sugar in this rub indicates that it’s intended for smoking rather than grilling. We use some Asian five spice powder in it for its warm notes of star anise and cinnamon, but the overall taste profile is really woodsy American. Rub it all over quail, pheasant, dove, or duck.
The Barbecued Game Bird Spice Rub is a delightful combination of spices and seasonings that are carefully blended to enhance the flavors of various game birds when grilled or barbecued. This robust and aromatic rub features a balance of ingredients, including brown sugar, black pepper, pink peppercorns, dried marjoram, five-spice powder, granulated garlic, and kosher salt. Each element contributes to a harmonious blend that brings out the best in the unique taste of game birds.
The brown sugar adds a touch of sweetness, while the black pepper and pink peppercorns provide a peppery punch that awakens the palate. The dried marjoram imparts a savory and slightly floral note, and the five-spice powder introduces an exotic and fragrant hint of Chinese cuisine. Granulated garlic contributes its rich garlic flavor, and kosher salt ensures a well-balanced seasoning throughout the meat.
When applied generously to game birds, the rub not only adds flavor but also creates a beautifully caramelized and flavorful crust as it melds with the natural juices of the meat. Allowing the seasoned game birds to rest for a short period before cooking allows the rub’s flavors to infuse the meat, resulting in a mouthwatering and aromatic culinary experience.
The versatility of the Barbecued Game Bird Spice Rub extends beyond just game birds. Its distinctive combination of spices can be employed with other meats as well, providing a layer of complexity to various dishes prepared on the grill or barbecue. As with any spice rub, experimentation is encouraged, and home cooks can adjust the quantities of individual ingredients to tailor the rub to their personal preferences.
For those who relish the bold flavors of game birds and appreciate the art of barbecuing, the Barbecued Game Bird Spice Rub serves as an essential tool in elevating outdoor cooking to a new level of taste and satisfaction. Whether it’s quail, pheasant, or another type of game bird, this rub promises to transform your culinary creations into a delectable feast that captures the essence of outdoor grilling.
MAKES: ABOUT 1 CUP
INGREDIENTS:
- ¼ cup packed brown sugar
- 3 tablespoons freshly ground black pepper
- 2 tablespoons crushed pink peppercorns
- 2 tablespoons crumbled dried marjoram
- 2 tablespoons five-spice powder
- 2 tablespoons granulated garlic
- 2 tablespoons kosher salt or coarse sea salt
INSTRUCTIONS:
- Mix the Rub: In a small bowl, combine the brown sugar, black pepper, pink peppercorns, dried marjoram, five-spice powder, granulated garlic, and kosher salt. Stir well until all the ingredients are thoroughly mixed.
- Apply the Rub: Sprinkle the rub generously over game birds of your choice, ensuring you massage it over and under the skin. Allow the seasoned game birds to sit for about 30 minutes at room temperature before you start cooking.
- Store the Rub: If there’s any rub left over, store it in a covered container. Keep it in a cool, dark pantry, and it should remain usable for several months.
