To maximize the depth and complexity of flavors in our BBQ Coffee Rub, generously apply it to your choice of meats or vegetables at least one to two hours before cooking. This allows the spices to penetrate deeply into the food, ensuring that the smoky, savory, and slightly sweet flavors are thoroughly infused. For an even more pronounced taste, consider rubbing the spices onto your meat or veggies the night before cooking and let them marinate overnight in the refrigerator. This slow infusion not only enhances the flavor but also helps the surface of the meat develop a more desirable crust when grilled or roasted.
Coffee contains sugars and other compounds that can caramelize under heat, contributing to the Maillard reaction—a chemical reaction that occurs when proteins and sugars in food are transformed by heat, leading to changes in color and flavor. Adding coffee to a rub can help form a rich, flavorful crust on the meat, which is highly desirable in grilled or roasted dishes.