This article presents a detailed comparison of two popular BBQ rubs: Supreme Tradition Memphis Style and Rib Rack Sugar-Free. We delve into a comprehensive side-by-side analysis, examining the ingredient lists of each rub to predict their flavor profiles before moving on to a practical taste test. The differences in ingredients, particularly the presence of cayenne pepper in Supreme Tradition versus the stevia in Rib Rack, suggest contrasting flavor experiences. We explore these differences through a comparative cooking process, observing visual changes in the ribs during cooking and analyzing the resulting color variations.Our analysis extends beyond visual observations to a thorough evaluation of the taste and texture of the ribs seasoned with each rub. We dissect the nuances of each flavor profile, comparing the levels of spice, sweetness, and savory notes. The ultimate goal is to provide readers with a clear understanding of the distinct characteristics of each rub, enabling them to make an informed decision based on their individual preferences and dietary needs. The comparison considers factors such as heat level, salt content, and overall taste experience to help you choose the perfect rub for your next BBQ adventure.
Pros And Cons
- Zero calories
- Zero sugar
- Low sodium content (65 milligrams per 1/4 teaspoon)
- Gluten-free
- Barbecue sauce-like taste
- Strong chili powder flavor
- Reviewer notes that the taste is more like barbecue sauce than a dry rub
- Zero calories
- Zero sugar
- Strong garlic, onion, and paprika flavor
- Peppery and herbal taste
- High sodium content (320 milligrams per 1/4 teaspoon)
- Reviewer would add more herbs for extra flavor
Read more: 10 Best Big Green Egg Rib Racks: A Buyer's Guide
Ingredient Breakdown and Initial Expectations
Before diving into the taste test, let's examine the ingredients of each rub. Supreme Tradition Memphis Style BBQ rub boasts a blend of salt, cayenne pepper, garlic, chili powder, black pepper, onion, ground celery, and paprika. This combination suggests a spicier, more savory profile.
In contrast, Rib Rack Sugar-Free BBQ rub includes paprika, chili pepper, sea salt, dehydrated vegetables, garlic powder, onion powder, and stevia extract. The inclusion of stevia hints at a potentially sweeter flavor, while the absence of cayenne pepper suggests a milder heat level. I anticipated the Supreme Tradition to be spicier and the Rib Rack to be sweeter.
The key difference lies in the sweeteners and heat levels. Supreme Tradition, being sugar-free and containing cayenne pepper, promises a bolder flavor. Meanwhile, Rib Rack's use of stevia as a sweetener indicates a likely sweeter, milder taste. This initial assessment sets the stage for a compelling taste comparison.
Cooking Process and Visual Observations
Both rubs were applied to separate racks of ribs, which were then cooked in the oven. Throughout the cooking process, the distinct color differences between the rubs became increasingly apparent. The Supreme Tradition rub resulted in a more reddish hue, likely due to the paprika and cayenne pepper.
The Rib Rack rub imparted a darker, almost brownish color, likely due to the higher proportion of paprika and chili pepper. The ribs were cooked for a total of 2.5 hours, ensuring they were tender and falling-off-the-bone. The visual contrast between the ribs during and after cooking helped emphasize the differences in the rubs' ingredients and color profiles.
Consistent monitoring during cooking was essential to ensure even browning and tenderness. Regular basting or flipping, though not explicitly mentioned, could have enhanced the results. The outcome highlighted how differently the spices manifested in terms of color when applied to the meat.
Taste Test and Detailed Flavor Profiles
The Supreme Tradition Memphis style rub delivered a strong savory flavor with a noticeable peppery kick. The garlic and onion were prominent, creating a well-rounded taste. The cayenne pepper added a pleasant heat, but it wasn't overwhelmingly spicy. The overall profile aligned with the ingredient list and expectations.
The Rib Rack Sugar-Free rub had a distinctly different flavor profile. It tasted more like a barbecue sauce, suggesting the stevia extract imparted a subtle sweetness that balanced the savory notes. The chili pepper provided a milder heat than the cayenne in the Supreme Tradition rub, resulting in a mellower taste.
The difference between the two rubs was significant, with Supreme Tradition leaning towards a robust, savory and spicy flavor and Rib Rack offering a more subtle, sweeter profile reminiscent of barbecue sauce. Both delivered on their flavor promises, but the distinct character of each made them suitable for different preferences.
Conclusion and Recommendation
Both Supreme Tradition and Rib Rack BBQ rubs offer unique and delicious flavor profiles. The choice between the two depends primarily on personal preference. Supreme Tradition excels with its bold, savory, and spicy taste, perfect for those who enjoy a strong flavor punch. Its higher sodium content should be considered.
Rib Rack, with its subtly sweet and milder taste, resembles a dry barbecue sauce more closely. Its lower sodium content is a definite advantage for those watching their salt intake. It's a great option for a more balanced, less intense flavor.
Ultimately, both rubs deliver on quality and flavor, but Rib Rack emerges as the slightly better choice due to its lower sodium content and the more palatable sweeter notes. Consider your preference for heat level and sodium content when making your selection.