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Smoky-Sweet BBQ Spice Blend

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Pixicook editorial team

A versatile spice blend that adds a smoky-sweet BBQ flavor to meats, vegetables, and more.

Ingredients for Smoky-Sweet BBQ Spice Blend

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serves
0.5 people

Whole White Peppercorns

teaspoons

Sweet Paprika

tablespoons

Smoked Paprika

tablespoons

Raw Cane Sugar

tablespoons

Fine Sea Salt

teaspoons

Onion Powder

teaspoons

Garlic Powder

teaspoons

Ground Cumin

teaspoons

Chili Powder

teaspoons

How to Make Smoky-Sweet BBQ Spice Blend

1. Grind White Peppercorns

Take 1 teaspoon of whole white peppercorns and grind them to a fine powder using a mortar and pestle. This fresh grinding releases the peppercorns' essential oils, enhancing their flavor.

2. Combine Ingredients

Combine the ground white peppercorns with 2 tablespoons of sweet paprika, 2 tablespoons of smoked paprika, 1 tablespoon of raw cane sugar, 2 teaspoons of fine sea salt, 1 teaspoon of onion powder, 1 teaspoon of garlic powder, 1 teaspoon of ground cumin, 1 teaspoon of chili powder, and a pinch of cayenne pepper in the same mortar. Grind these together until you have a uniform mixture.

3. Toast the Spice Mixture

Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add the spice mixture to the skillet. Toast the spices for about 1 minute, stirring constantly. You'll know it's ready when the spices become fragrant, which means their essential oils have been released, enhancing the blend's flavor.

4. Cool and Store

After toasting, transfer the spice mixture to a bowl and let it cool completely. Once cooled, store your Smoky-Sweet BBQ Spice Blend in an airtight container. This blend will stay fresh for up to 2 weeks.

Pitfalls and tips

Toast Your Spices

Before grinding, toast spices like cumin, coriander, or mustard seeds in a dry skillet until fragrant to deepen the flavors.

Freshness Matters

Use fresh spices, preferably ground from whole, and purchase in small quantities for the best flavor.

Quality of Smokiness

Choose high-quality smoked paprika, like Spanish pimentón, and select the heat level that suits your preference.

Store Properly

Keep your spice blend in an airtight container away from light and heat to preserve flavors.

Balanced Sweetness

Consider a blend of sugars like brown sugar, honey powder, or maple sugar to add complexity and avoid clumping.

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