Southwestern Wonder

FOR TRADITIONAL BARBECUE, CONTEMPORARY SMOKED FOOD, & GRILLED DISHES 

Inspired by the flavors of the American Southwest and Mexico, this knockout flavoring mates especially well with steaks that have broad surfaces, such as flank or skirt.

Southwestern Wonder is a delightful spice rub that brings the bold and distinctive flavors of the Southwest to your favorite cuts of beef and bison. The blend features a harmonious combination of ingredients that showcase the region’s love for chile, chocolate, and coffee. This unique mixture of cocoa nibs, toasted pumpkin seeds, and coriander seeds offers a rich and aromatic base, while ground dried red chile and chipotle chile infuse a subtle smokiness and gentle heat.

The addition of ground cinnamon adds a touch of warmth and complexity to the rub, enhancing the overall flavor profile. A hint of espresso powder adds a pleasing bitterness, complementing the other ingredients and intensifying the savory aspects of the rub. The kosher salt acts not only as a seasoning but also as a carrier, drawing out the flavors and ensuring they penetrate the meat thoroughly.

When applied to beef or bison, the Southwestern Wonder rub transforms these hearty meats into a culinary delight, evoking the spirit of the American Southwest. Whether grilled, roasted, or cooked using your preferred method, the rub will infuse the meat with a symphony of flavors that will leave your taste buds craving for more.

This versatile spice blend is perfect for enhancing the natural taste of beef and bison, creating a delicious fusion of Southwestern and barbecue-inspired goodness. As the rub sits on the meat, its flavors deepen and meld, enhancing the overall dining experience. Its shelf life of up to three months allows you to enjoy the Southwestern Wonder again and again, making it a pantry staple for any barbecue enthusiast or lover of Southwestern cuisine. Experience the wonder of the Southwest in your kitchen with this exceptional spice rub, elevating your dishes to new heights of flavor and satisfaction.

MAKES: ABOUT ¾ CUP

INGREDIENTS:

• ¼ cup cocoa nibs
• ¼ cup shelled pumpkin seeds (pepitas), toasted in a dry skillet
• 1 teaspoon coriander seeds, toasted in a dry skillet
• ¼ cup ground dried mild to medium red chile, such as New Mexican
• 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
• 2 teaspoons espresso powder
• 2 teaspoons kosher salt or coarse sea salt
• 1 teaspoon ground chipotle chile

INSTRUCTIONS:

1. Grind together the cocoa nibs, pumpkin seeds, and coriander seeds in a spice grinder or mortar until finely ground. Transfer the mixture into a small bowl.
2. Add the ground dried red chile, ground cinnamon, espresso powder, kosher salt, and ground chipotle chile to the bowl with the ground cocoa nibs and seeds.
3. Mix all the ingredients well to combine, creating the flavorful rub.
4. Sprinkle the rub heavily on beef or bison, ensuring it is evenly coated. Massage the rub into the meat thoroughly.
5. Allow the seasoned meat to sit for at least 45 minutes at room temperature before cooking. This resting time will allow the flavors to penetrate the meat.
6. Grill, roast, or cook the beef or bison according to your preferred method.
7. Store any leftover rub in a covered container in a cool, dark pantry for up to 3 months, ready to use for your next grilling adventure.

SPICING TIP:

• Beef and bison are naturally flavorful meats that can handle strong and hearty seasonings. This rub’s combination of chile, chocolate, and coffee creates a rich and delicious profile that complements the meat’s natural taste. Enjoy the unique blend of flavors in this spice rub for a mouthwatering and memorable dining experience.