The Earthy and Smoky Spice Rubs I’m Using All Grilling Season Long
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Real talk: If your spice collection looks anything like mine, it’s likely cluttered with blends that are either too salty, too smoky, or simply lack that special something. Well, I recently discovered two aromatic spice blends that are made with simple, sustainably sourced ingredients, and they’ve completely changed the way I cook, season, and serve my meals. I’d like to introduce you to my new go-to seasoning blends for everything from grilled fish to roasted veggies to chicken breasts: Westbourne’s Spice Duo.
To say this brand is inspired by California’s terroir would be a vast understatement. As the brand’s website states, “We grew up with weather that nourishes the soul and the soil. Produce that tastes like sunshine and feeds an entire nation. A rare level of freshness that’s inspired countless dishes, chefs, and restaurants.” Founded by chef Camilla Marcus, this sustainable brand offers a wide variety of special pantry staples, from zero-waste snacks to avocado oil to, of course, spices and spice blends.
The Earthy Herb Spice Blend is made with lemon, saffron, coriander, fennel, caraway seeds, garlic powder, cumin seeds, onion powder, and paprika. Straight from the jar, I was intrigued by the complex aroma of this spice mixture, and I find it incredibly versatile for seasoning everything from grilled chicken breasts to roasted Brussels sprouts to hard-boiled eggs. I love the citrusy, floral notes that come through from the tart lemon and delicate touch of saffron. Let’s just say I’ve easily already gone through half of this jar… at least.
Westbourne’s Smoky Pepper Spice Blend is, as the name suggests, a bit spicier and smokier than the Earthy Herb Spice Blend. It’s made with smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, onion powder, ground black pepper, dried oregano, and cayenne pepper. If you’ve ever created a batch of smoky, aromatic chili that left your dinner guests stumped by its secret ingredient, this is the secret ingredient you want. I’ve used this blend to season oven-baked salmon and roasted root veggies, and I look forward to putting it to work on grilled fare.
Whether you’re looking for a unique Father’s Day gift for the dad who loves to grill or in need of a pantry staple upgrade for your own collection, I can’t recommend these aromatic spice blends highly enough. You’ll leave your dinner guests completely mystified by these sustainable, shockingly simple, and seriously delicious secret ingredients.