World's Fair Barbecue Rub

Host of the Chicago World’s Fair 125 years ago, Hyde Park has always played an important role in Chicago’s history and place in the world. We wanted this blend to reflect the characteristics of this diverse neighborhood, while being as useful and versatile for cooking purposes as the neighborhood has been to city life. Starting with a hearty base of our best Tellicherry black pepper, Hungarian sweet paprika, and garlic, we added elegant freeze-dried shallots and sweet, lemony coriander to reflect the sophistication of a neighborhood known for world-class museums and the acclaimed University of Chicago. Crushed chiles provide a hint of heat and a nod to the brightly-colored Monk parakeets that have colonized Harold Washington Park. In honor of President Obama’s ties to the area, we have included African grains of paradise and Hawaiian sea salt. With a savory balance of hearty flavors, this blend is a favorite for roasted or grilled vegetables, particularly cauliflower, potatoes, and artichokes. Use it as a rub for slow-roasting meats, where the long cooking time allows the flavor of the grains of paradise to really develop. Mix into ground turkey, chicken or portobello mushrooms for wonderful burgers. This blend was previously called 'Hyde Park Seasoning.'