Bold & Smoky Coffee Rub
This Bold & Smoky Coffee Rub is a rich, flavorful spice blend perfect for grilling, roasting, or smoking meats and vegetables. Made with pantry staples like ground coffee, brown sugar, smoked paprika, and chili powder, it's a quick way to upgrade your meals with deep, smoky flavor and a hint of heat.
Equipment
- Small Mixing Bowl
- Spoon or Whisk
- Measuring Spoons
- Airtight Container or Jar
Ingredients
Coffee Rub Blend
- 0.25 cup Ground Coffee dark roast, finely ground
- 2 tablespoons Brown Sugar light or dark, packed
- 1 tablespoon Smoked Paprika
- 1 tablespoon Chili Powder
- 1 teaspoon Garlic Powder
- 1 teaspoon Onion Powder
- 1 teaspoon Ground Black Pepper freshly ground if possible
- 1 teaspoon Ground Cumin
- 0.5 teaspoon Salt or more to taste
- 0.25 teaspoon Cayenne Pepper optional, for heat
Instructions
- In a small bowl, combine all the ingredients: ground coffee, brown sugar, smoked paprika, chili powder, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, cumin, salt, and cayenne pepper (if using).
- Use a spoon or whisk to stir the mixture until all ingredients are well blended and evenly distributed. Break up any clumps from the brown sugar.
- Pat your meat dry with paper towels. Generously apply the rub to all sides, pressing it into the surface. For best results, let it rest for at least 30 minutes before cooking, or refrigerate for several hours.
- Grill, roast, or smoke your meat as desired. The rub will form a flavorful crust while sealing in the juices. Serve hot and enjoy!
- Store any remaining rub in an airtight jar in a cool, dry place for up to 2 weeks.