Zesty Rub for Veal, Venison, and Rabbit

FOR CONTEMPORARY SMOKED FOOD & GRILLED DISHES

Veal and rabbit are milder meats than venison, but all three combine well with warm spices such as ginger, dried orange peel, paprika, and a bit of chile. We like this on small cuts of all three, whether slowly cooked by smoke or quickly grilled.

Delight your taste buds with a burst of bold and aromatic flavors as you dive into the world of lean meats. This Zesty Rub for Veal, Venison, and Rabbit is a versatile and robust blend that effortlessly enhances the natural richness of these meats. The combination of spices, citrus, and chile creates a captivating contrast, making it a go-to choice for elevating your culinary creations.

MAKES: ABOUT ¾ CUP

INGREDIENTS:

• ¼ cup kosher salt or coarse sea salt
• 3 tablespoons ground dried ginger
• 2 tablespoons ground coriander
• 2 tablespoons dried orange zest
• 1 tablespoon turbinado sugar
• 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
• 1 tablespoon ground dried mild red chile, such as ancho or New Mexican
• 1 teaspoon crushed hot red chile flakes

INSTRUCTIONS:

1. Blend the Flavors: In a bowl, combine all of the ingredients for the rub. Stir them together until the spices, zest, and chiles are evenly distributed. This blend brings together the warmth of ginger, the citrusy notes of orange zest, the earthiness of coriander, and the hint of smokiness from paprika.
2. Apply the Rub: Before cooking, generously sprinkle the rub onto cuts of veal, venison, or rabbit. Make sure to evenly coat the meat with the rub by massaging it in. The rub’s combination of flavors will infuse into the meat, enhancing its taste profile.
3. Marinate the Meat: Let the seasoned meat rest for at least 45 minutes at room temperature. For larger cuts, consider marinating the meat for an extended period, even up to overnight. Wrap or cover the meat and refrigerate it for a more intense flavor infusion.

SERVING SUGGESTIONS:

• Grilling: Rub the Zesty Rub onto your veal, venison, or rabbit cuts before grilling. The spices will create a flavorful crust that caramelizes as the meat cooks, adding depth and texture.
• Roasting: Apply the rub to your meat and let it marinate before roasting. The spices and zest will release their aroma, creating an enticing fragrance throughout your kitchen.
• Stews and Braises: Consider using the Zesty Rub as a base for seasoning meat in hearty stews and braised dishes. Its combination of flavors will harmonize with other ingredients, creating a well-rounded taste.
• Dinner Delight: Impress your guests with succulent and well-seasoned veal, venison, or rabbit dishes. The rub’s zesty profile will elevate your meals from ordinary to extraordinary.

STORAGE:

• Any remaining Zesty Rub can be stored in a covered container in a cool, dark pantry for up to 3 months. This means you can have this flavorful blend on hand whenever you’re ready to embark on another culinary adventure.
• As you explore the realm of lean meats, the Zesty Rub for Veal, Venison, and Rabbit will be your trusty companion, adding depth, complexity, and a touch of zest to your dishes.