Homemade Adams Reserve Hickory House All Purpose Rub Glass Bottle Recipe: Better Than The Original With Half The Sugar

Category: Seasoning

Introduction

The Adams Reserve Hickory House All Purpose Rub is a beloved seasoning blend that has been a staple in many kitchens for years. Known for its rich, smoky flavor and versatility, this rub is perfect for grilling, roasting, or adding a burst of flavor to any dish. The original product is a masterful blend of spices, herbs, and a hint of hickory smoke, but store-bought options often come with added preservatives and higher sodium content. By making it at home, you can enjoy the same bold flavors while controlling the ingredients and reducing unnecessary additives.

This recipe captures the essence of the original Adams Reserve Rub while offering a healthier twist. With fewer sugars and no artificial preservatives, this homemade version is not only better for you but also customizable to your taste preferences. Whether you’re a grill master or a home cook, this rub will elevate your dishes to the next level.

Why Make It at Home?

Making your own seasoning blends at home offers several advantages:

• Customization: Tailor the flavors to suit your palate. Love garlic? Add more! Prefer less heat? Reduce the chili powder.
• Healthier Options: Control the amount of sugar, sodium, and other ingredients to align with your dietary goals.
• Cost-Effective: Homemade spice blends are often cheaper than store-bought versions, especially if you buy spices in bulk.
• Freshness: Store-bought rubs can sit on shelves for months, losing their flavor over time. Homemade rubs are freshly made and packed with vibrant flavor.

Personal Anecdote

I remember the first time I used the Adams Reserve Rub on a brisket for a family barbecue. The flavor was incredible, but I couldn’t help noticing how salty it was. I decided to take matters into my own hands and create a homemade version that retained the smoky, savory goodness but with fewer additives. This recipe is the result of countless tweaks and taste tests, and I’m thrilled to share it with you!

Recipe Details

**Prep Time:10 minutes
**Cook Time:0 minutes
**Total Time:10 minutes
**Yield:1 cup (200g) of rub (enough for 10-12 uses)

Ingredients

Dry Ingredients:

• 1/2 cup (120g) paprika (smoked or sweet, depending on your preference)
• 1/4 cup (60g) brown sugar (or 1/4 cup honey powder for a healthier option)
• 2 tbsp (30g) chili powder
• 2 tbsp (30g) garlic powder
• 2 tbsp (30g) onion powder
• 1 tbsp (15g) ground cumin
• 1 tbsp (15g) dried oregano
• 1 tbsp (15g) dried parsley
• 1 tsp (5g) black pepper
• 1 tsp (5g) cayenne pepper (optional, for a spicy kick)
• 1 tsp (5g) pink Himalayan salt (or regular salt, to taste)

Optional Wet Ingredients (for a smoky twist):

• 1 tsp (5ml) liquid smoke (optional, for an authentic hickory flavor)

Instructions

• Combine Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, mix together the paprika, brown sugar, chili powder, garlic powder, onion powder, cumin, oregano, parsley, black pepper, cayenne pepper, and salt. Stir until well combined.
• Add Smoky Flavor (optional): If using liquid smoke, drizzle it over the dry ingredients and mix until the spices are evenly coated. Be careful not to add too much, as liquid smoke can overpower the other flavors.
• Store: Transfer the rub to an airtight container, such as a glass jar or spice bottle.

Variations

• Low-Sugar Version: Replace the brown sugar with an equal amount of honey powder or monk fruit sweetener.
• Spicy Version: Increase the cayenne pepper to 2 tsp (10g) or add a pinch of ghost pepper powder for an extra kick.
• Herby Version: Add an extra tbsp (15g) of dried herbs like thyme or basil for a more complex flavor profile.
• Smoky Version: Use smoked paprika instead of regular paprika and add a tsp of chipotle powder for a deeper smokiness.

Pro Tips

• Toast Your Spices: For a more aromatic rub, lightly toast the spices in a dry skillet over medium heat for 2-3 minutes until fragrant. Let them cool before mixing.
• Sift for Even Texture: Sift the combined rub through a fine-mesh strainer to ensure even distribution of flavors and a smooth texture.
• Layer Flavors: Apply the rub to meats or vegetables 24 hours in advance to allow the flavors to meld and penetrate deeper into the food.

Nutritional Comparison

FAQ

• Can I use fresh herbs instead of dried ones?
  Yes, but you’ll need to use 3-4 times the amount of fresh herbs and ensure they’re completely dry before mixing to avoid clumping.

• What can I do if the rub is too clumpy?
  Simply sift the rub through a fine-mesh strainer or pulse it in a spice grinder until smooth.

• Can I make this rub vegan or gluten-free?
  Yes, this recipe is naturally vegan and gluten-free. Just ensure that the ingredients you use (e.g., spices) are free from cross-contamination.

• How long does the homemade rub last?
  Stored in an airtight container in a cool, dark place, the rub will last for up to 6 months.

• Can I scale this recipe for larger batches?
  Absolutely! Simply multiply the ingredients proportionally based on your needs.

Serving Suggestions

• Grilling: Rub generously over brisket, ribs, chicken, or steak before grilling.
• Roasting: Sprinkle over vegetables like Brussels sprouts, carrots, or sweet potatoes for a flavorful roast.
• Dipping: Mix a small amount of the rub with sour cream or Greek yogurt for a tasty dip.
• Seasoning: Use as a seasoning for soups, stews, or baked potatoes.

Conclusion

This homemade version of Adams Reserve Hickory House All Purpose Rub captures the bold, smoky flavors of the original while offering a healthier and more customizable alternative. With fewer sugars and no artificial additives, you can enjoy the same great taste without compromising on nutrition. Whether you’re grilling for a crowd or adding a burst of flavor to your weeknight meals, this rub is sure to become a staple in your kitchen.

Let me know how your homemade rub turns out, and feel free to share your own tweaks and tips!