Spice Mixes

Need a last minute Father's Day gift? Spice mixes are perfect for the father who likes to cook, especially now that BBQ season is here.

I put together three spice mixes and sent them off to my dad for Father's Day. Of course they won't actually get there in time now, thankyouverymuchCanadaPost, but hopefully they'll arrive safely at some point.

I kept my labels simple, but you can make yours as fancy as you like. I included an instructional label on the back of each as well.

Want to make your own? Use your favourite spice mix, search through the countless mix recipes available on the Internet, or choose from mine below:


Herbed Sweet & Sour Spice Mix

1 part allspice
1 part cayenne pepper
2 parts black pepper
3 parts thyme
3 parts paprika

Instructions: Mix 5 tsp of spice mix with 6 Tbsp olive oil, 6 Tbsp soy sauce, 6 Tbsp honey, and 3 Tbsp vinegar. Pour mixture over chicken pieces and bake at 375F until done. Adapted.


Dry Rub for Ribs

1/4 part cayenne pepper (I used 3/4 tsp)
3 parts salt (I used 3 Tbsp)
4 1/2 parts paprika (I used 4 1/2 Tbsp)
4 1/2 parts black pepper (I used 4 1/2 Tbsp)
12 parts brown sugar (I used 3/4 cup)

Instructions: Rub mix into ribs. Brush liberally with barbecue sauce. Wrap in greased foil and refrigerate for 8 hours. Place foil packets on baking sheet and bake at 300F for 2 1/2 hours. Open packets and broil for 10 minutes. Adapted.


Dry Rub for Chicken

1 part black pepper
1 part cayenne pepper
2 parts thyme
2 parts paprika
4 parts salt

Instructions: Rub mix into whole chicken. Place quartered onion and 2 cloves minced garlic inside cavity. Wrap in plastic and refrigerate for 5 hours. Bake uncovered at 250F for 5 hours. Adapted.

Do you have a favourite spice mix you use often? What do you have planned for Father's Day?