Looking for the kind of rib rub recipe that will get everyone talking about your rack? (Sorry, couldn't resist. At least I didn't make a "it's so good you'll be rubbing your meat" joke. Because that would be really crude.)

Ahh, barbecue season. There's nothing quite as wonderful as a cold drink in one hand, several sticky ribs in the other, and the smokey smell of cooked meats in your nostrils. Bliss! And while any barbecue is going to be wonderful --even if all you're making is packaged hotdogs and pre-formed burgers-- you're probably aiming to throw a truly memorable one. Sound about right? Then get the grill fired up, and read on!

Dry Rubs for a BBQ Rib Recipe

This recipe is perfect for those with a bit of a sweet tooth. Want an extra rich flavor? Look for dark brown sugar.

Ingredients:
2 C. brown sugar
1/4 C. garlic powder
1/2 C. kosher salt
1/4 C. paprika
1/4 C. lemon pepper
1/4 C. chili powder
1 tbsp. freshly ground black pepper
1 tsp. dried thyme
1 tsp. dried basil

Instructions: Combine ingredients. Rub into both sides of ribs.

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This spicy cumin rub has a bit of a Mexican flair-- and makes super-flavorful ribs with just a touch of sweetness. Really good for Mexican food junkies. Substitute oregano for the thyme for a deeper Mexican flavor.

Ingredients:
3 tbsp. cumin
1 tbsp. coriander powder
2 tbsp dried thyme
2 tbsp chili powder
2 tbsp. paprika
2 tbsp. freshly ground black pepper
1/4 C. brown sugar
1/4 C. kosher salt

Instructions: Mix. Rub into ribs, marinate, and cook as desired.

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This recipe is the perfect balance between sweet and spicy. It makes a lot-- either save the rest in an airtight container or use it on lots of ribs. Or try it on popcorn for wonderful sweet-spicy BBQ popcorn. SO good.

Ingredients:
1 C. sugar
1/2 C. kosher salt
2 tbsp. paprika
2 tbsp. chili powder
1 tsp. cayenne
1 tbsp. ground cumin
1 tbsp. ground celery seed

Instructions: Combine ingredients in a small bowl or jar. Rub into both sides of ribs.

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This recipe come from Off the Grill Magazine, and is the perfect start to a perfect rack of Memphis Style BBQ Ribs.

Ingredients:
3 tbsp. paprika
1 tbsp. dried basil
1 1/2 tbsp. dry mustard powder
1 tbsp. chili powder
1/2 tbsp. freshly ground back pepper
1 tbsp. garlic powder
1 tbsp. onion powder

Instructions: Combine ingredients and rub into ribs. Store any remaining rub in a cool, dry place.

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This simple bbq ribs recipe is perfect for tender and already-flavorful babyback ribs. Making a lot of ribs? You may have to double or triple the recipe.

Ingredients:
1 tbsp. ground cumin
1 tbsp. dried thyme
1 tsp. kosher salt
2 tsp. freshly ground black pepper
1/2 tsp. cayenne pepper
1 1/2 tsp. garlic powder

Instructions: Mix all ingredients. Apply spice mix to ribs on both sides. Use liberally-- none should be left over.

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