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Carolina Pork Rub

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seasonings•bbq rub•american•vegan, gluten-free
5 minutes•about 1 cup (seasons 8–10 pounds of pork)•

Ingredients

  • 1/4 cup kosher salt
  • 1/4 cup brown sugar (55g)
  • 1/4 cup paprika
  • 2 tbsp black pepper
  • 1 tbsp garlic powder
  • 1 tbsp onion powder
  • 2 tsp mustard powder
  • 2 tsp cayenne pepper
Carolina Pork Rub

Instructions

  1. 1.

    In a medium bowl, whisk together the kosher salt, brown sugar, paprika, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, mustard powder, and cayenne pepper until evenly blended and lump-free.

  2. 2.

    Use immediately or transfer the rub to an airtight container. Store in a cool, dark place for up to 6 months.

  3. 3.

    To use, pat pork dry and apply about 2 tbsp rub per pound, coating all sides and pressing to adhere. Refrigerate 30 minutes to overnight before cooking.

Carolina Pork Rub is a straightforward dry seasoning blend designed to complement pork’s richness without overpowering it. Expect a balanced profile: savory from salt and garlic, gentle sweetness from sugar, warm color and roundness from paprika, and a clean, peppery heat. It’s versatile on shoulders, butts, and ribs, and it pairs naturally with the vinegary, tangy sauces that define barbecue in the Carolinas.

Rooted in the barbecue traditions of North and South Carolina, this rub reflects a regional preference for simplicity and pork-forward flavor. Eastern and Lexington styles lean less sweet than other American barbecue regions, favoring salt, pepper, and modest heat to support, not mask, the meat. Over time, touches like paprika and a hint of mustard powder became common, but the mix remains restrained compared to spice-heavy rubs elsewhere.