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    Home » Dry Rubs and Spices

    Cajun Rub

    Published: Jul 12, 2020 · Modified: Apr 1, 2023 · By: Sweet Daddy D · with Leave a Comment · This post may contain affiliate links · This blog generates income via ads

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    Jump to Recipe

    We're always looking for ways to introduce great flavor to our dishes and there aren't many more effective ways than applying a dry rub. A good rub can send the flavor anywhere in the world. Sweet Daddy D's Cajun Dry Rub is a simple, all-purpose rub that gives anything a nice Cajun vibe. Try it on pork, chicken, beef or seafood, you're going to love it.

    Here is what you need

    ingredients for dry Cajun rub with labels
    Here is what you need

    Equipment

    All you need is this plastic container with an airtight lid.

    This post is not sponsored, but you will find affiliate links on this page. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. The price you pay as a consumer does not change, but I may make a small commission based on your purchase.

    Here is What you do

    First...you have a beer. Of course, you do. Read the recipe and make sure you have all the ingredients and a nice airtight container to store it in.

    Make the rub

    So take a swig of beer, then measure each ingredient into a container with an airtight lid. Take another swig of beer. Put the lid on the container and shake like a mad Cajun. Take another sip of beer and shake some more. That's it. Now use it liberally on anything that needs rubbing.

    Apply the rub

    Most meats and fish will absorb the flavors of the rub if given enough time. This recipe does not use much salt, so you could sprinkle some salt on the meat and let ot sit for about 15 to 30 minutes. That will start drawing out some moisture to the surface which will help this rub stick. Add generous portions of Sweet Daddy D's Cajun Rub to all sides and nooks and crannies of the meat or fish. Let it sit at least 30 minutes. Optionally you can wrap the meat in plastic wrap after applying the rub and let it sit in the fridge overnight.

    pork tenderloin resting in dry Cajun rub on a prep platter
    Apply liberally to your favorite protein

    Hints and Tips

    Can I substitute ingredients?

    Sure. The best thing about making your own rubs is that you can make them the way you like them. Many commercial blends have way too much salt and some sort of anti-caking ingredient. Adjust the quantities of these ingredients to suit your personal taste. I recommend doing it my way the first time, then adjust it as you like from then on. Add more or less Cayenne pepper depending on how hot you like things. You can leave the salt out all together if you want a salt free rub.

    Does this rub need help adhering to the meat?

    Lots of times you see people putting mustard, mayo or oil on the meat to help the rub stick. I don't think that's necessary. Although those won't affect the flavor very much, it's more ingredients. The salt will draw out moisture which helps the rub stick-that is all you need. Make sure to put ample amounts of rub, then give it enough time to do its job.

    Is Cajun Rub spicy?

    It's a common misconception that Cajun and Creole spices are hot and spicy. Sure, there are some that have a bit of pepper, but mostly Cajun and Creole seasonings are full of flavor that round out and fortify a dishes natural taste. Too much pepper can overwhelm and that's not what Cajun and Creole seasonings are intended to do.

    How do I store this rub?

    Mix the whole thing up in a plastic container with an airtight lid. Store it in a dry, dark spot for up to a year (not that it will last that long). The brown sugar may clump up a bit, bt just give the container a vigerous shake before using. When it's time to make more, just use the same container and add the new studff to what you have left.

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    Yeah You Right!

    Recipe

    ingredients for dry Cajun rub laid out before mixing

    Cajun Rub

    Here is a sweet and savory all-purpose dry rub that gives a Cajun kick to pork, chicken, seafood and beef.
    5 from 1 vote
    Print Pin Rate
    Prep Time: 15 minutes minutes
    Total Time: 15 minutes minutes
    Servings: 12 Tablespoons
    Calories: 30kcal
    Author: Sweet Daddy D
    Prevent your screen from going dark

    Here's What You Need

    • 1 tablespoon sweet paprika
    • 4 tablespoons dark brown sugar
    • 1 tablespoon dry mustard
    • 2 tablespoons granulated garlic
    • 2 tablespoons granulated onion
    • 1 tablespoon chili powder
    • 1 teaspoon kosher salt
    • 1 teaspoon black pepper fine grind
    • 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper optional

    Here's What You Do

    • Mix all ingredients together and store in an airtight container.
    • Apply liberally to chicken, pork, seafood and beef. Allow about 30 minutes to rest.

    Recipe Notes

    For a salt-free rub, simply eliminate the kosher salt.
    Adjust the amount of cayenne pepper according to your desired level of heat. 

    Nutrition Estimate

    Calories: 30kcal | Carbohydrates: 7g | Protein: 1g | Fat: 1g | Saturated Fat: 1g | Sodium: 596mg | Potassium: 63mg | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 4g | Vitamin A: 485IU | Vitamin C: 1mg | Calcium: 14mg | Iron: 1mg

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    Dave AKA Sweet Daddy D

    Welcome!

    Louisiana is a wonderful place where the rich cultural heritage enriches and entertains. I'm Sweet Daddy D and glad you found my website. I look forward to exploring the cultural mosaic of Louisiana with you...

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