Description
Spice enthusiasts will fall in love with this bold & smoky coffee rub that elevates grilled meats with deep, rich flavors. Robust ground coffee blends seamlessly with aromatic spices, creating a mouthwatering coating that turns ordinary dishes into culinary masterpieces you’ll crave again and again.
Ingredients
Scale
Spices and Seasonings:
- 1 tablespoon (15 ml) smoked paprika
- 1 tablespoon (15 ml) garlic powder
- 1 tablespoon (15 ml) onion powder
- 1 teaspoon (5 ml) black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon (2.5 ml) cayenne pepper
Coffee and Sugar:
- 2 tablespoons (30 ml) finely ground coffee
- 1 tablespoon (15 ml) brown sugar
Salt:
- 1 tablespoon (15 ml) kosher salt
Instructions
- Combine freshly ground coffee, dark brown sugar, smoked paprika, sea salt, black pepper, and garlic powder in a mixing vessel.
- Whisk the spice components thoroughly until they create a uniform, aromatic blend with no visible clumps.
- Pat your chosen protein completely dry using paper towels to ensure maximum rub adherence.
- Massage the coffee rub mixture aggressively into the meat’s surface, creating a dense, even layer that completely covers the protein.
- Allow the seasoned protein to rest at room temperature for 30-45 minutes, permitting the spices to penetrate and infuse deep flavor.
- For intensified taste, refrigerate the rubbed protein overnight, which will enhance the complex flavor profile.
- Preheat grill or skillet to medium-high heat around 400-425°F for optimal searing and caramelization.
- Cook the protein until it reaches desired internal temperature, letting the coffee rub create a tantalizingly dark, crusty exterior.
- Remove from heat and let the protein rest for 5-7 minutes to redistribute internal juices before serving.
Notes
- Kick up the flavor intensity by toasting whole spices before grinding, which releases deeper, more complex aromatics.
- Experiment with different coffee roasts like dark espresso or light blonde to create unique flavor profiles that complement various meats.
- Store the rub in an airtight container away from heat and moisture to maintain maximum potency and prevent clumping of ingredients.
- Consider adjusting salt levels if using pre-seasoned meats or for those watching sodium intake, ensuring a balanced and personalized seasoning experience.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Appetizer, Snacks
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4
- Calories: 36 kcal
- Sugar: 5 g
- Sodium: 1160 mg
- Fat: 1 g
- Saturated Fat: 0.2 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 0.8 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 7 g
- Fiber: 3 g
- Protein: 2 g
- Cholesterol: 0 mg