When it comes to giving your meals an extra kick of flavor, it can be hard to know where to start. Do you use a seasoning or a rub?
While both are great for adding flavor to food, there are distinct differences between them. In this blog, we’ll explore the differences between seasoning and rubs, and how to best use each one to enhance your dishes.
Definition of seasoning
Seasoning and rub are two terms that are often used interchangeably, but there is actually a notable difference between the two. Seasoning is typically a blend of herbs, spices, and other flavorings that are used to enhance the flavor of food, while a rub is a mix of spices, herbs, and other flavorings that are applied to the surface of food before cooking. Both are used to give food an extra boost of flavor, but the application and ingredients used in each differ.
Both are used to give food an extra boost of flavor, but the application and ingredients used in each differ. Seasoning is usually added to the entire dish, while a rub is typically massaged into the surface of a protein like meat or fish, where the flavors can really penetrate the food. Therefore, seasonings tend to give an overall flavor to the dish, while rubs can provide an intense burst of flavor in one area.
Definition of rub
A rub is a blend of herbs, spices, and other ingredients that is used to add flavor to food. It is applied to the surface of food before cooking and can be used to marinate or season.
Rubs are distinct from seasonings in that they are usually composed of larger particles and are not used in the form of a liquid or paste. Rubs often contain salt, pepper, garlic, onion, paprika, and other spices that are used to bring out the flavor of the food. Rubs can be used to enhance the flavor of any meat, poultry, fish, or vegetable dish.
They are an easy and effective way to add flavor to your food without adding too much fat or calories.
Difference between seasoning and rub
Seasoning and rubs are both used to give food a flavorful kick, but there is a difference between the two. Seasonings are typically a combination of herbs and spices that are added to food while cooking.
This helps to enhance the flavor of the dish. Rubs, on the other hand, are dry mixtures of herbs and spices that are rubbed onto the surface of the food before cooking. This helps to create a crust on the food, giving it a unique flavor and texture.
So, seasoning is used as an additive while rub is used as a coating.
Popular seasonings and rubs
Cooking with spices can take your meals from bland to bold. But understanding the difference between seasonings and rubs can be the difference between a delicious dish and a dry disappointment.
Seasonings are typically used in cooking to add flavor, while rubs are used to provide an aromatic, flavorful crust on the surface of meats and vegetables. Rubs are also known for their ability to lock in moisture and add texture to food.
So, when it comes to choosing which seasoning or rub to use, it’s important to consider the type of flavor, texture, and moisture you are looking for.
Tips for using seasonings and rubs
When it comes to cooking, mastering the difference between seasonings and rubs can take your dishes to the next level. Seasonings are usually made up of herbs and spices that are added to food to enhance the flavor.
On the other hand, rubs are used to add flavor and texture to food by coating it in a mixture of herbs and spices. Rubs are usually applied to the outside of meat or vegetables, and can be left to marinate for a period of time before cooking.
Whether you’re grilling, roasting or sautéing, seasonings and rubs are both essential ingredients for creating delicious dishes.
Bottom Line
In conclusion, the main difference between seasoning and rubs is that seasonings are used to add flavor to food before or during cooking, while rubs are mostly used to add flavor to food before cooking. Seasonings can be applied as a dry powder, liquid or paste, while rubs are typically applied as a dry mix of herbs, spices, and other flavorful ingredients that are rubbed directly onto the food.
Both seasoning and rubs are important components in cooking and can be used to enhance the flavor of a variety of dishes.