1. Mix all ingredients for the recipe of your choice in a bowl. When adding sugar to a rub recipe, it’s important to break up clumps with a fork or even a few quick pulses in a food processor.
2. Dry rub doesn’t tenderize meat, so it’s okay to apply it any length of time before you cook; just choose a time that’s most convenient for you, whether it’s a day before, or an hour before you plan to cook.  
3. When using the spice mix on meat, make sure the meat is fully defrosted and patted dry first to absorb excess moisture. Drizzle a light layer of olive oil evenly over the protein to help the rub adhere better (only use a small amount of oil, or the rub won’t stick).
4. Spoon an even layer of the dry rub on all sides of the food you are preparing to cook. You can use as much or as little dry rub as you want, but 1 tablespoon of rub for every pound of meat you’re cooking is usually sufficient. Make sure to coat all the sides and nooks and crannies so the rub covers the entire surface. If you don’t plan on cooking right away, store the food in a closed container and refrigerate until ready to cook. Cooking instructions will vary depending on the protein or food used.
5. Store spice rubs in airtight containers—small mason jars are perfect, especially if you are planning to gift them. Go one step further and label the jar with the name of the spice rub!  ​ 

If you’re just not the DIY type, try these delicious premixed Natural Grocers Brand Bulk seasoning options:

• Organic Taco Seasoning Blend (organic cumin, organic chili pepper, organic garlic, organic onion, organic tomato powder, organic paprika, organic oregano, organic cilantro, organic mustard powder, organic cayenne pepper)
• Organic Cajun Seasoning Blend (organic black pepper, organic cayenne pepper, sea salt, organic garlic, organic onion, organic Spanish paprika)
• Organic Curry Powder (organic turmeric root, organic coriander seed, organic cumin seed, salt, organic cayenne pepper, organic cinnamon, organic cloves, organic nutmeg)