Spice Tips for Summer BBQ Success As summer grilling season heats up, many backyard BBQ enthusiasts focus on sauces, marinades and cooking techniques. However, according to local spice expert Deb Kussman, owner of the Pepper Tree Spice Co., the real secret to unforgettable BBQ begins long before the sauce hits the meat. “Spices are the foundation of great BBQ flavour,” explains Deb. “They create depth, aroma, and character directly on the meat while enhancing the natural smokiness from the grill.” While sauces and marinades certainly play a role, Deb says a carefully balanced spice blend is what truly defines the flavour profile of BBQ. For those looking to elevate their grilling game, Deb recommends keeping several staple ingredients stocked in the pantry: “Every BBQ enthusiast should have smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, chili blend, cumin, and a quality sea salt on hand. Brown sugar is also often a staple for adding balance and caramelization to rubs.” For beginners experimenting with BBQ rubs for the first time, Deb suggests starting simply, with versatile blends that work across multiple foods. “A great beginner BBQ rub that is family friendly, packed with flavour, low on heat and very versatile is our Bridge St. BBQ Rub,” says Deb. “It can be used for chicken, pork, roast vegetables, potatoes and burgers to name a few.” She also recommends Hyde Park Steak Spice for beef, describing it as, “An incredibly flavourful twist to a Montreal seasoning, without overpowering salt.” For ribs and wings, Grilled Chicken and Rib Rub or Kentucky Spice are customer favourites. Deb noted that choosing the right spices for different meats is just as important as selecting the right cut. “Spice pairing
is similar to wine and olive oils,” she explains. “You want your spices to complement, not overpower your foods.” According to Deb, beef works especially well with bold flavours like black pepper, coffee and chili, while pork benefits from sweeter combinations featuring paprika, garlic and onion. Chicken pairs nicely with herb-forward blends, while fish is best enhanced with lighter citrus, dill and fine herb seasonings. Timing is one of the biggest to seasoning mistakes, Deb continues. “One of the biggest mistakes is under-seasoning, or seasoning right before grilling without giving the spices time to adhere and develop flavour,” she says. “Apply your spice or blend and allow the natural juices to marry with the spice before cooking.” Ultimately, Deb believes balance is what separates a good BBQ blend from a great one. “A great blend,” she says, “Creates layers of flavour that enhance the meat instead of masking it.”
Open for the season June 10th Stop in for fresh and locally grown fruits, vegetables and other great local products! Strawberries • Asparagus
PEPPER TREE SPICE CO.
Visit us for all your BBQ & Smoking must haves. is Your BBQ
Headquarters
-Artisan BBQ Rubs -Spices & Seasonings -BBQ & Hot Sauces -Gourmet Specialty Foods
223A Colborne St., PORT STANLEY ON 24 Churchill Cres. ST. THOMAS ON FIND US SATURDAYS AT THE HORTON MARKET
From Our Family To Yours (519) 631-1370 5680 Sunset Road (on the way to Port Stanley) Open 7 days a week. www.debackerefarmmarket.ca
1-22 Main St. N. BAYFIELD ON
Hometown St. Thomas • June 2026 • Page 35
Get involved! Like us on Facebook!
Made with FlippingBook - Online catalogs