Brown Sugar and Spice Rub

FOR CONTEMPORARY SMOKED FOOD & GRILLED DISHES 

This rub may sound like an odd amalgam, but it’s tasty. We like it best on halibut, snapper, and especially salmon.

The “Brown Sugar and Spice Rub” is a versatile seasoning blend that adds a delightful burst of flavor to fish and shellfish. The combination of sweet and savory elements, along with a mix of aromatic spices, creates a well-balanced profile that enhances the natural taste of seafood. The brown sugar brings a touch of sweetness, while the dill, coriander, and mustard seeds provide a layer of earthy and herbal notes. This rub is not only easy to prepare but also offers a convenient way to elevate your seafood dishes with a complex array of flavors.

When using the Brown Sugar and Spice Rub, generously sprinkle it on the surface of your fish or shellfish, then gently massage it in to ensure even distribution. Allowing the seasoned seafood to rest for a short period of time allows the flavors to infuse and permeate the dish, resulting in a more flavorful and delicious meal.

The rub’s ingredients, such as ginger, cinnamon, and red chile flakes, contribute a touch of warmth and subtle spiciness that complement the seafood without overpowering it. This rub is a great addition to your culinary arsenal, offering a quick and easy way to transform your seafood into a delectable and memorable dish. Plus, any extra rub can be stored for future use, making it a convenient option for adding flavor to your meals whenever you desire.

MAKES: ABOUT 1 CUP

INGREDIENTS:

• 2 tablespoons packed brown sugar
• 2 tablespoons yellow mustard seeds
• 2 tablespoons coarsely ground coriander seeds
• 2 tablespoons dried dill
• 2 tablespoons dried dill seeds
• 2 tablespoons kosher salt or coarse sea salt
• 1 tablespoon ground dried ginger
• 1 tablespoon cracked black peppercorns or pink peppercorns
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1 teaspoon crushed hot red chile flakes

INSTRUCTIONS:

1. In a bowl, combine all of the ingredients for the rub.
2. Sprinkle the rub generously on fish or shellfish and then gently massage it into the surface.
3. Allow the seasoned seafood to sit for at least 15 minutes at room temperature, or up to 2 hours if wrapped or covered in the refrigerator, prior to cooking.
4. When ready, cook the seafood as desired. The flavorful rub will enhance the taste of the dish.
5. Any leftover rub can be stored in a covered container in a cool, dark pantry for several months.

USES:

• Grilled Fish: Sprinkle the rub generously over fish fillets, such as salmon, trout, or snapper, before grilling. The rub’s balance of sweet and savory flavors will caramelize beautifully on the grill, creating a flavorful crust.
• Seared Scallops: Pat dry scallops and coat them with the rub before searing. The rub’s combination of spices and brown sugar will create a delicious crust on the scallops.
• Crispy Shrimp: Toss shrimp in the rub before pan-frying or baking. The rub’s blend of spices and sugar will add a delightful crunch to the shrimp’s exterior.
• Seafood Tacos: Use the rub to season fish or shrimp for tacos. The aromatic spices will add depth to the taco filling, and the sweetness from the brown sugar will balance the flavors.
• Seafood Kabobs: Thread cubes of fish or shrimp onto skewers and sprinkle the rub over them. Grill or broil the kabobs for a flavorful and aromatic meal.
• Seafood Stews: Add a spoonful of the rub to seafood stews or chowders for an extra layer of flavor. The spices will infuse into the broth, enhancing the overall taste.
• Fish Sandwiches: Sprinkle the rub on breaded or grilled fish fillets before assembling sandwiches. The rub will elevate the flavor of your sandwiches to new heights.
• Baked Fish: Rub the seasoning onto whole fish or fillets before baking in the oven. The combination of spices and sugar will create a delicious and aromatic crust.
• Seafood Salads: Toss cooked shrimp or flaked fish with the rub and use it as a topping for salads. The rub will add a burst of flavor to your greens.
• Marinades: Combine the rub with olive oil, lemon juice, and your choice of acid (vinegar, citrus juice) to create a flavorful marinade for seafood. Let the seafood marinate before cooking to infuse it with delicious flavors.