Lemony Chile Dilly Rub

FOR TRADITIONAL BARBECUE, CONTEMPORARY SMOKED FOOD, & GRILLED DISHES

People often think of fish as delicate and believe that it should not be seasoned assertively or cooked with high heat or smoke. We think all of those views are off base. Of course, pristinely fresh seafood brims with flavor of its own, but it can certainly handle well-tailored spicing. Lots of competitors on the barbecue circuit use lemonade powder in their rubs or other seasonings. We find it best in small amounts and with seafood. This rub can be sprinkled onto most anything from the sea destined for outdoor cooking, from whole fish to split lobster tails.

The “Lemony Chile Dilly Rub” is a versatile blend of ingredients that can elevate the flavor of your seafood dishes with its unique combination of zesty, spicy, and herbal notes. This rub combines kosher salt, garlic powder, sweetened lemonade powder, ground dried New Mexican red chile, and dried dill, resulting in a seasoning that enhances the natural flavors of seafood while adding a delightful twist.

The kosher salt provides a foundational seasoning, while garlic powder brings its characteristic savory taste. The sweetened lemonade powder contributes a tangy and slightly sweet citrus element, complemented by the mild to medium heat of the New Mexican red chile. The addition of dried dill introduces an herbal freshness, creating a well-rounded and flavorful rub.

To use the rub, simply coat your fish or shellfish generously with the mixture, gently massaging it into the surface. Allowing the seasoned seafood to rest for a short period before cooking allows the flavors to meld and penetrate the ingredients. Whether you’re grilling, roasting, or sautéing seafood, this rub can infuse a burst of flavor into your dishes.

The convenience of having this homemade rub on hand makes it easy to prepare delectable seafood meals. Keep a batch of the rub in a covered container in your pantry for up to three months, and you’ll always be ready to add an extra layer of taste to your culinary creations. Enjoy the interplay of lemony, chile, and dill flavors that this rub brings to your seafood dishes, turning ordinary meals into extraordinary dining experiences.

MAKES ABOUT 1 CUP

INGREDIENTS:

• ¼ cup kosher salt or coarse sea salt
• ¼ cup garlic powder
• ¼ cup sweetened lemonade powder
• ¼ cup ground dried mild to medium New Mexican red chile
• 1 tablespoon dried dill

INSTRUCTIONS:

1. In a bowl, stir together all of the ingredients until well combined.
2. Sprinkle the rub generously on fish or shellfish, then gently massage it in to ensure even coverage.
3. Allow the seasoned seafood to sit for at least 15 minutes at room temperature, or you can wrap or cover it and refrigerate for up to 2 hours before cooking.
4. Store the rub in a covered container in a cool, dark pantry for up to 3 months.

VARIATIONS:

• Spice Level: Adjust the heat level by using hotter or milder chili powders. You can also include a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes for an extra kick.
• Citrus Twist: Experiment with different citrus flavors by replacing the sweetened lemonade powder with other citrus powders, such as orange or lime. This can create unique flavor profiles that pair well with seafood.
• Herb Substitution: Instead of dried dill, try using other dried herbs like tarragon, parsley, or chives. Each herb will bring its own distinctive flavor to the rub.
• Smoky Depth: Add a smoky dimension by incorporating a small amount of smoked paprika or chipotle powder. This can lend a delicious smokiness to the rub.
• Savory Depth: Enhance the umami flavor by adding a touch of dried porcini mushroom powder. This can provide a rich and earthy undertone to the rub.
• Sweet Balance: If you prefer a less sweet rub, reduce or omit the sweetened lemonade powder. You can balance the flavors with a touch of honey powder or maple sugar.
• Asian Fusion: Give the rub an Asian-inspired twist by adding a pinch of ground ginger, lemongrass powder, or even a touch of soy sauce powder.
• Nutty Note: Include some finely ground nuts, such as almonds or cashews, for added texture and a subtle nutty flavor.
• Fresh Ingredients: If you have access to fresh herbs, use minced fresh dill or other herbs instead of dried. Freshly grated garlic and lemon zest can also add vibrant flavors.
• Custom Blends: Feel free to play around with the proportions of the ingredients to create a blend that matches your taste preferences. You can increase or decrease specific components to achieve the desired flavor balance.