Best Gourmet Rubs of 2025

Ashley Abels Avatar
Ashley Abels
Last Updated: Jan 15, 2025

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Gourmet Rubs are a collection of premium quality seasoning blends that are used to add flavor to various types of meat, poultry, and fish. These rubs are made from a blend of herbs, spices, and other natural ingredients that are carefully selected to create a unique and delicious taste. They're perfect for grilling, smoking, or roasting, and can be used on almost any type of meat. Whether you're a professional chef or a home cook, Gourmet Rubs are a must-have in your kitchen. With a variety of flavors to choose from, including BBQ, garlic, and Cajun, there's something for everyone.

At a Glance: Our Top Picks

Traeger Grills SPC171 Pork and Poultry Rub Cover #TOP 1
Traeger Grills SPC171 Pork and Poultry Rub
ftb score rating icon 9.8
Watkins Organic Grilling Smoked Maple Rub Cover #TOP 2
Watkins Organic Grilling Smoked Maple Rub
ftb score rating icon 9.7
Weber Honey Garlic Rub Cover #TOP 3
Weber Honey Garlic Rub
ftb score rating icon 9.5

Top 10 Gourmet Rubs

#TOP 1

Traeger Grills SPC171 Pork and Poultry Rub

SPC171
Traeger Grills SPC171 Pork and Poultry Rub Cover
Traeger Grills SPC171 Pork & Poultry Rub with Apple & Honey

Traeger Grills SPC171 Pork and Poultry Rub with Apple and Honey is a great tasting cooking seasoning that features apple and honey flavors. It is the perfect BBQ rub to complement your pork or poultry creations and comes in a stackable aluminum tin container. It is Kosher, Gluten Free, and GMO Free, and has sweet and savory flavors that pair perfectly with milder meats. Made in USA.

What We Like
Fantastic flavor enhancement
Convenient dry rub option
Good for various meats
Crowd-pleasing sweetness
What We Don't Like
Flavor penetration can vary

Watkins Organic Grilling Smoked Maple Rub

As Shown
Watkins Organic Grilling Smoked Maple Rub Cover
Watkins Organic Grilling Smoked Maple Rub, Non-GMO, Kosher, 3.8 Oz, 1-Pack

The Watkins Organic Grilling Smoked Maple Rub is a perfect combination of sweet and smoky flavors that are ideal for poultry, beef, or pork. This gourmet rub is made of superior quality spices and herbs, which are USDA certified organic and non-GMO verified. It is also Gluten-free and Kosher. Plus, the custom recyclable bottle makes it easier to store and use. With this organic grilling rub, you can bring out the best flavors in your favorite meat and veggies.

What We Like
Great flavor profile
Versatile for different meats
Reasonably priced
Boosts smokey flavor
Amazing maple taste
What We Don't Like
Contains sugar
Granule size may vary
#TOP 3

Weber Honey Garlic Rub

1150415
Weber Honey Garlic Rub Cover
Weber Honey Garlic Rub, 6.25 Ounce Shaker

Experience the flavorful Weber Garlic Rub, a perfect balance of sweetness from honey and brown sugar. This savory rub, enhanced with garlic, salt, and sweet chili peppers, is ideal for enhancing the taste of pork or chicken. Packed with rich flavors, this gluten-free and kosher rub offers a mouthwatering experience for your grilling adventures.

What We Like
Delicious honey and garlic blend
Versatile seasoning for various dishes
High-quality seasoning
Great for chicken, pork, and salmon
Hard to find in stores
What We Don't Like
Somewhat salty for some
More expensive on Amazon
#TOP 4

Rufus Teague's Big Box O' Rub Variety Pack - Premium BBQ Rub - 5 Bottles

Rufus Teague's Big Box O' Rub Variety Pack - Premium BBQ Rub - 5 Bottles Cover
Rufus Teague BBQ Seasoning Gift Set, Big Box O' Rub BBQ Dry Rub for Smoking and Grilling Meat, 5 Flavor Spice Set, BBQ Gifts for Men Who Like Grilling

If you're looking for a BBQ rub that elevates your meals, look no further than Rufus Teague's Big Box O' Rub Variety Pack. Made in America with natural ingredients, these award-winning rubs are full of mouthwatering flavors that will leave you wanting more. Whether you're a chef or a grill master, these rubs will take your meals to the next level with their masterful blend of herbs and spices. With five bottles to choose from, you're sure to find a rub that suits your taste.

What We Like
Great flavor variety
Amazing taste and quality
Perfect for smoking meats
Highly praised as gifts
Exciting new seasonings to try
What We Don't Like
Limited use for certain meats
Skepticism about online ordering
#TOP 5

John Henry's Pecan Rub

BHBUST051718A3975
John Henry's Pecan Rub Cover
John Henry's Pecan Rub (11.5 oz)

John Henry's Pecan Rub is a gourmet seasoning created by the renowned BBQ Master, John Henry. This 11.5-ounce Pecan Rub adds a delicious flavor to various dishes like brisket, chicken, fish, ribs, and vegetables. You can use it before, during, or after cooking, making it versatile and convenient. The seasoning is all-purpose, enhancing the taste of your favorite foods with a touch of pecan goodness. Made in the USA, John Henry's Pecan Rub is a must-have for flavor enthusiasts.

What We Like
Versatile flavor profile
Balanced blend of spices
Consistent texture
Great for various meats
Affordable price
What We Don't Like
Lacks sweetness for some
#TOP 6

Rub Your Butt Championship BBQ Seasoning Gift Pack

SMOKIN' BOOTY RUBS
OW89051
3 Piece Assortment
Rub Your Butt Championship BBQ Seasoning Gift Pack Cover
Rub Your Butt Championship BBQ Seasoning Gift Pack

The Rub Your Butt Championship BBQ Seasoning Gift Pack is a great gift for any BBQ enthusiast. This 19.2 oz. package contains three different seasonings: KC Butt Spice, Pig's Ass Rub Memphis Style, and Carolina Style Rub Some Butt. All three seasonings are gluten-free and can be used to season pork, chicken, steak, and even home-made fries. Customers have praised the unique flavors of each rub and the ease of use. However, some customers have noted that the packaging was open upon arrival.

What We Like
Humorous labeling
Great flavor options
Versatile for different meats
Well-received as gifts
High-quality seasonings
#TOP 7

John Henry's Honey Rib Rub

JHF_HONEY_RIB_RUB_C5.15
John Henry's Honey Rib Rub Cover
John Henry's East Texas Honey Rib Rub Seasoning

John Henry's Rib Rub is an 11.5-ounce seasoning that elevates the flavor of your dishes, especially ribs. Created by renowned BBQ expert John Henry, this rub is perfect for enhancing the taste of your meals. You can use it at any stage of cooking—before, during, or after preparation—offering you flexibility in how you season your food. Made in the USA, this gourmet rub brings a delightful sweetness and depth to your BBQ experience, making it a must-have for grilling enthusiasts.

What We Like
Great flavor
Versatile for various meats
Produces beautiful color
Excellent for smoking ribs
Highly recommended by users
What We Don't Like
Black pepper could be stronger
#TOP 8

John Henry's Texas Brisket Rub Seasoning

John Henry's Texas Brisket Rub Seasoning Cover
Texas Size John Henry's Texas Brisket Rub Seasoning (26 Ounce)

Introducing John Henry's Brisket Rub - a Texas-sized seasoning that will take your barbeque game to the next level. This exceptional all-purpose rub is designed to enhance the flavors of your brisket or tri-tip, while keeping the juices locked in. But it doesn't stop there! This award-winning blend of sugar, salt, and spices is perfect for chicken, pork, steak, ribs, and even fish. With a generous 29-ounce shaker, you'll have plenty of seasoning to go around. Plus, it's gluten-free and MSG-free, making it a healthier choice for your family and friends. Get ready to impress everyone with the delicious flavor of John Henry's Brisket Rub!

What We Like
Excellent flavor
Produces flavorful bark
Practical larger size
Retains moisture
Good with Pecan wood
What We Don't Like
Packaging issues noted
Limited return policy
#TOP 9

Stubb's BBQ Rub 4.62 Oz

901547126
Stubb's BBQ Rub 4.62 Oz Cover
Stubb's, BBQ Rub, 4.62 Oz

Stubb's BBQ Rub brings the authentic taste of Texas right to your kitchen. Made with real sea salt and a blend of spices, it offers a rich hickory smoke flavor that enhances any dish. You can enjoy this rub worry-free, as it contains no artificial ingredients and is gluten-free and Non-GMO Project verified. Whether you're grilling brisket, steak, pork, chicken, or even vegetables, this rub adds a delicious Texas Bar-B-Q flavor that will impress your family and friends. Just apply it generously before cooking and pair it with Stubb's Bar-B-Q Sauce for a mouthwatering meal.

What We Like
Great flavor for barbecue
Juicy and tender results
Versatile for various meats
Highly praised by family
Available on Amazon
What We Don't Like
Possible high price
#TOP 10

St Elmo Steak House Seasoning 13 OZ

St Elmo Steak House Seasoning 13 OZ Cover
St Elmo Steak House Seasoning, Flavorful Rub for Steaks, Burgers, Chicken, Seafood, and More - 13 OZ

St Elmo Seasoning Rub offers a delightful way to enhance your meals. This famous seasoning, crafted since 1902, is perfect for steaks, burgers, chicken, and seafood. It brings out natural flavors without overwhelming them, allowing you to enjoy the taste of your dish. The balanced blend includes ingredients like evaporated cane juice for sweetness and paprika for brightness, ensuring you won’t need to over-salt your food. Plus, it is gluten-free and kosher, making it a versatile option for many diets. You can easily elevate your home cooking with this flavorful rub.

What We Like
Versatile for different meats
Sweet flavor with mild heat
Low sodium option available
Generous size, great value
Family-friendly seasoning
What We Don't Like
Somewhat sweet for certain tastes
Not easily available everywhere
Buying Guide Image

Best Choices of Gourmet Rubs for You

Introduction

Gourmet rubs are a great way to add flavor to your food without adding too much fat or calories. They come in a variety of flavors and can be used on meats, fish, and vegetables alike. With so many options out there, it can be difficult to choose the right rub for your dish. In this article, we'll discuss how to choose gourmet rubs to get the most out of your meal.

Consider Your Meal

Before you choose a rub, consider what type of meal you are making. Is it a steak dinner? A fish dish? A vegetable stir-fry? Each type of meal requires a different type of rub. For example, a steak dinner may require a bolder rub with strong flavors, while a vegetable dish may require a lighter rub with more subtle flavors.

Think About Your Tastes

It's also important to consider your own tastes when choosing a rub. Do you like spicy flavors or prefer more mild flavors? Do you like smoky flavors or sweet flavors? Think about what types of flavors you like and how those flavors will pair with the meal you're making.

Ingredients

Once you've narrowed down the type of rub you're looking for, take a look at the ingredients. Rubs are typically made up of a blend of herbs and spices, so you want to make sure that the combination of ingredients works well together. Look for rubs made with all-natural ingredients and avoid rubs with artificial flavors or preservatives.

Brand

When it comes to gourmet rubs, the brand matters. Certain brands are known for their quality ingredients and flavor profiles, so it's worth taking the time to do a bit of research. Read online reviews and talk to friends or family who have used the rubs before to get an idea of which brands may be best for your meal.

Storage

Finally, consider how you'll store the rub. Most rubs come in plastic containers or jars, so you want to make sure you have a way to keep it safe and dry. If you plan to store the rub for a long time, look for containers that are airtight and made of durable material.

Conclusion

Choosing the right gourmet rubs can make all the difference in your meals. By considering your meal, tastes, ingredients, brand, and storage, you can ensure you find a rub that will add the perfect flavor to your dish. With the right rub in hand, you can create delicious, flavorful meals that everyone will enjoy.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What are the different types of rubs?

There are two main types of rubs: wet rubs and dry rubs. Wet rubs contain oil or liquid to help adhere to the meat, while dry rubs rely on the meat's moisture. Wet rubs can be made with ingredients like vinegar, beer, liquor, juice, oil, or mustard.

2. How long should dry rub sit on meat?

For the best results, it is recommended to let the dry rub sit on the meat for 15 minutes to 2 hours before cooking. If you have more time, you can even let it sit for several hours. Allowing the dry rub to rest on the meat allows the flavors to penetrate and enhance the taste.

3. Should you oil meat before dry rub?

It is generally recommended to pat the meat dry using paper towels before applying a dry rub. However, you can also apply a small amount of oil over the surface of the meat before coating it generously with the dry rub. The oil helps the dry rub stick to the meat and adds an extra layer of flavor.

4. What oil is best for dry rub?

When using a dry rub, adding a touch of extra virgin olive oil can help ensure that the rub sticks to the meat. It also imparts an additional layer of flavor.

5. Is it cheaper to make your own rub?

The cost of making your own rub depends on the quality of ingredients you use. If you use off-brand spices, your homemade blend may be cheaper. Some store-bought blends often contain extra salt, which is a cheaper ingredient. Making your own rub allows you to customize the flavors according to your preferences.

6. Do you rinse off dry rub before cooking?

Before cooking, it is advisable to use your fingers to wipe off any excess dry rub. It is important not to add any additional salt unless it is labeled as low sodium. Removing excess dry rub helps prevent an overly salty or overpowering taste.

7. Do you put oil before or after dry rub?

When using a dry rub, you can either season the meat directly or apply a small amount of oil over the surface before generously coating it with the dry rub. Both methods work well, and it ultimately depends on personal preference.

Editor's Notes

During our gourmet rub research, we found 24 gourmet rub products and shortlisted 10 quality products. We collected and analyzed 60,212 customer reviews through our big data system to write the gourmet rubs list. We found that most customers choose gourmet rubs with an average price of $12.96.

The gourmet rubs are available for purchase. We have researched hundreds of brands and picked the top brands of gourmet rubs, including Traeger, Watkins, Weber, Rufus Teague, John Henry's. The seller of top 1 product has received honest feedback from 385 consumers with an average rating of 4.7.

Written by
Ashley Abels Avatar

Ashley Abels is a former restaurant executive and has worked in the restaurant industry for 15 years. She is also a gourmet who loves tasting different cuisines and trying out all kinds of cooking methods. The food she writes about will make you want to try it!

Gourmet Rubs Comparison Table

#TOP1
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Brand Traeger Watkins Weber Rufus Teague John Henry's SMOKIN' BOOTY RUBS John Henry's John Henry's Stubb's St Elmo Steak House
Item Form Powder Granule Powder Powder Powder Powder Powder Powder Powder Powder
Unit Count 9.25 Ounce 3.8 Ounce 6.25 Ounce 1 Count 11.5 Ounce 1 Count 11.5 Ounce 27.00 Ounce 4.62 Ounce 13.0 Ounce
Specialty Kosher Non-gmo Honey No MSG gluten free, no msg Gluten Free Pepper Gluten Free gmo-free, high-fructose-corn-syrup-free, vegetarian, vegan, low-carb, kosher Gluten Free
FTB Score
ftb score rating icon 9.8
ftb score rating icon 9.7
ftb score rating icon 9.5
ftb score rating icon 9.4
ftb score rating icon 9.3
ftb score rating icon 9.3
ftb score rating icon 9.2
ftb score rating icon 9.2
ftb score rating icon 9.0
ftb score rating icon 9.0
Where to Buy