If you’re looking for a spice blend that brings heat, depth, and a touch of smoky sweetness, Voodoo Spice is your new go-to. Perfect for ribs, chicken, and even turkey, this powerful seasoning mix is packed with bold flavors that will elevate your barbecue, smoker, or grilled dishes.
Why You’ll Love This Spice Blend
Voodoo Spice combines savory, smoky, and spicy elements to create a dynamic seasoning blend. The combination of smoked paprika, jalapeño powder, and two types of pepper ensures a slow-building heat, while brown sugar and dried basil balance it out with a touch of sweetness and herbal freshness.
What’s in Voodoo Spice?
- 2 tablespoons salt (I use kosher salt, but any will work)
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar (for that sweet, caramel-like flavor)
- 1 tablespoon regular paprika (adds color and mild sweetness)
- 1 tablespoon smoked paprika (brings the smoky depth)
- 1 tablespoon jalapeño powder (or cayenne for heat)
- 1 tablespoon granulated garlic (because garlic makes everything better)
- 1 tablespoon onion powder (for a savory base)
- 1 tablespoon dried basil (adds a fresh, herby note)
- 1 tablespoon black pepper (for a little kick)
- 1 teaspoon white pepper (adds a subtle, earthy heat)
How to Make Voodoo Spice
1. Mix It Up
Combine all ingredients in a medium-sized bowl, stirring well to ensure even distribution. This recipe yields nearly one cup of seasoning.
2. Store for Freshness
Transfer the blend to an airtight container and store it in a cool, dry place. It will stay fresh for 8–12 months—just give it a shake now and then.
3. Fine-Tune the Texture
For a smoother consistency, run the mixture through a spice grinder or mortar and pestle. This helps it coat meats more evenly.
4. Get Cooking
Use this rub generously! This batch is enough for:
- 2–3 racks of ribs
- 1 whole 14-pound turkey
- 3 whole chickens
5. Safety Tip
Once the rub has touched raw meat, discard any remaining seasoning to prevent cross-contamination.
Best Ways to Use Voodoo Spice
- Ribs: Coat generously before smoking for a deep, flavorful bark.
- Chicken & Turkey: Massage the rub under the skin for maximum flavor.
- Steak & Burgers: A pinch of Voodoo Spice takes grilled meats to the next level.
- Veggies: Sprinkle over roasted potatoes, corn on the cob, or grilled zucchini.
A Spice Blend with a Kick
Voodoo Spice isn’t just another seasoning—it’s a bold, smoky, and slightly sweet blend that transforms any dish into something magical. Whether you’re firing up the smoker, grilling over open flames, or roasting in the oven, this mix delivers a powerful punch of flavor in every bite.
FAQs About Voodoo Spice
1. How spicy is Voodoo Spice?
It has a moderate kick from the jalapeño powder (or cayenne), black pepper, and white pepper. If you prefer a milder blend, reduce the jalapeño powder or swap it for smoked paprika.
2. Can I use regular sugar instead of brown sugar?
Brown sugar adds a deeper, molasses-like sweetness that balances the heat. If needed, you can substitute white sugar, but the flavor will be slightly different.
3. How long does Voodoo Spice last?
Stored in an airtight container in a cool, dry place, it stays fresh for 8–12 months. Stir or shake the container occasionally to keep the blend well mixed.
4. What meats work best with Voodoo Spice?
This rub is perfect for ribs, brisket, turkey, chicken, pork shoulder, and even steaks. It also adds great flavor to grilled seafood.
5. Can I use Voodoo Spice on vegetables?
Yes! Try sprinkling it on roasted potatoes, corn on the cob, grilled zucchini, or even popcorn for a spicy kick.
6. Should I let meat marinate with the rub before cooking?
For the best flavor, rub the seasoning onto the meat and let it sit for at least 30 minutes (or overnight for deeper flavor). If using on poultry, rub it under the skin for maximum taste.
7. How much seasoning should I use?
It depends on the cut of meat, but a general rule is about 1 tablespoon per pound. Adjust to your taste preference.
8. Can I adjust the seasoning to make it more or less smoky?
Absolutely! Add more smoked paprika for extra smokiness, or reduce it and increase regular paprika for a more balanced flavor.
9. What’s the best way to apply the rub?
For even coverage, pat the seasoning onto the meat rather than rubbing it in. This helps create a flavorful crust when cooking.
10. Can I mix this seasoning into a sauce?
Yes! Stir it into BBQ sauce, marinades, or even butter for a flavorful baste or dipping sauce.
Voodoo Spice
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons salt
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon regular paprika
- 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
- 1 tablespoon jalapeño powder or cayenne
- 1 tablespoon granulated garlic
- 1 tablespoon onion powder
- 1 tablespoon dried basil
- 1 tablespoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon white pepper
Instructions
- Combine all ingredients in a medium-sized bowl, yielding nearly 1 cup of seasoning.
- Store in an airtight container in a cool, dry place for 8-12 months, stirring occasionally.
- For a finer texture, run the blend through a spice grinder.
- Use this amount for 2-3 racks of ribs, a 14-pound turkey, or about 3 whole chickens.
- Discard any rub that has come into direct contact with raw meat.
Notes
- Adjust the heat by increasing or reducing the jalapeño powder or cayenne.
- Try adding a teaspoon of ground mustard or cumin for extra complexity.
- This rub works well on roasted vegetables and grilled seafood too.
