How Much Rub Should I Use?

At the markets, there’s one question that comes up time and time again — how much rub should I use? It might seem like a small detail, but the right amount makes all the difference. Whether you’re cooking steak, chicken, seafood, or slow-cooked meats, knowing how much rub to use ensures you get balanced flavour without overpowering the dish.

At Terrablendz, our BBQ rubs are crafted with native Australian ingredients like Saltbush, Lemon Myrtle, Tasmanian Pepperberry, and Aniseed Myrtle — all designed to add layers of flavour that work in harmony with your food. The key is to coat your meat evenly and use just enough to build a thin, flavourful crust when cooked.

General Rule: 1 Tablespoon per 500g of Meat

As a general guide, use around 1 tablespoon of rub per 500 grams of meat. This gives you a solid flavour base without masking the natural taste of the meat. If you prefer a stronger kick, you can increase slightly, especially for slow-cooked or smoked cuts that need a deeper seasoning to shine through longer cooking times.

Light meats like chicken or fish often need less — about ½ to 1 tablespoon per 500 grams — while beef, lamb, or pork can handle a little more. The goal is to create an even coating across the surface, not to bury the meat under a thick layer of spices.

Rub Ratios by Meat Type

Beef:

Steak, brisket, or roasts love a generous coating. Apply about 1 tablespoon per 500g, pressing it gently into the surface. Cuts like ribs or brisket can take a heavier hand — the seasoning will form a crust that locks in juices during long cooks.

Chicken:

For chicken breasts or thighs, start with ½ tablespoon per piece. For a whole chicken, use around 2–3 tablespoons total, covering the skin and cavity evenly. Terrablendz Dusty Chicken Rub is balanced with Lemon Myrtle and Pepperberry, perfect for both roasting and BBQ grilling.

Pork:

Pork works beautifully with rubs that bring out its natural sweetness. Around 1 tablespoon per 500g works well. Try Terrablendz Burnt Ridge BBQ Rub — the Aniseed Myrtle and Tasmanian Pepperberry give pork ribs or pulled pork a native twist.

Seafood:

Fish and prawns need a light touch. Use ½ tablespoon per 500g or sprinkle lightly before grilling. Terrablendz Sea Spray Seafood Rub brings a refreshing coastal flavour with Lemon Myrtle, Saltbush, and Pepperberry.

Vegetables:

BBQ rubs aren’t just for meat. Sprinkle lightly over corn, potatoes, or pumpkin before roasting. About ½ teaspoon per cup of veggies is plenty. Try our Bush Salt or Rocky Shore Lemon Pepper Seasoning for an easy native-inspired twist.

When to Apply the Rub

You can apply your rub right before cooking, or let it sit for a while to deepen the flavour.

For quick cooks (like steak or fish), rub it on just before it hits the heat.

For larger cuts (like roasts or brisket), apply it 30–60 minutes beforehand.

For slow cooks or smokers, apply your rub and refrigerate the meat for several hours or overnight.

This gives the salt and spices time to draw in and balance moisture and flavour.

How to Apply a Rub Properly

Pat the meat dry with paper towel — moisture prevents even coating.

Drizzle lightly with oil if you like — it helps the rub stick, especially for lean cuts.

Sprinkle evenly over the surface, then pat (not rub) it into the meat.

Let it rest before cooking to allow the flavours to settle in.

Avoid caking it on. BBQ rubs work best as a balanced layer that enhances, not hides, the natural flavour of the meat.

Adjusting to Taste

Everyone’s taste is different. If you prefer mild seasoning, start light — you can always add more later or season again at the end. For stronger BBQ flavour, add an extra half tablespoon per 500g or combine two Terrablendz rubs to create your own signature blend.

Our Granite Salt & Pepper Seasoning or Bush Salt can be used on their own or mixed into any rub to tone down spice and add savoury depth.

Bringing It All Together

So, how much rub should I use? About 1 tablespoon per 500 grams is a great starting point — but the real secret is even coverage and quality ingredients. With Terrablendz BBQ Rubs, each blend is balanced to bring out the best in your food, whether it’s a smoky BBQ, pan-grilled dinner, or roasted weekend feast.

Experiment a little, taste as you go, and let Australia’s native flavours guide your next BBQ.