Nashville Hot Rub Recipe: A Fiery Flavor for Your Chicken
Nashville hot rub is a dry spice blend used to create the signature spicy and flavorful Nashville hot chicken. The rub typically consists of cayenne pepper, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, brown sugar, and other spices. Using a Nashville hot rub allows you to replicate the iconic Nashville hot chicken flavor at home.
What is Nashville Hot Chicken?
Nashville hot chicken is a type of fried chicken that is heavily seasoned with a cayenne pepper-based spice blend before being fried. It is traditionally served on white bread with pickle chips. The fiery flavor and crispy texture are what make it so popular.
The Perfect Nashville Hot Rub Recipe
This recipe aims for a balanced heat and flavor. Feel free to adjust the cayenne pepper to your desired spice level.
Ingredients:
- 3 tablespoons cayenne pepper
- 2 tablespoons paprika
- 1 tablespoon garlic powder
- 1 tablespoon onion powder
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- 2 teaspoons salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
Instructions:
- In a medium bowl, combine all ingredients.
- Whisk together until well blended.
- Store in an airtight container.
How to Use Your Nashville Hot Rub
This rub can be used on chicken, pork, or even vegetables. For chicken, pat the pieces dry with paper towels. Then, generously coat the chicken with the Nashville hot rub, making sure to cover all surfaces. For authentic Nashville Hot Chicken flavor, you’ll want to dredge in flour, dip in egg, then dredge in flour again before frying.
Tips for the Best Nashville Hot Chicken
- Adjust the Heat: The amount of cayenne pepper determines the spice level. Start with a smaller amount and adjust to your liking.
- Use Fresh Spices: Fresh spices will give you the best flavor.
- Let it Sit: Allow the rub to sit on the chicken for at least 30 minutes before cooking, or preferably overnight, to allow the flavors to penetrate the meat.
- Don’t Overcrowd: When frying, don’t overcrowd the pan. This will lower the oil temperature and result in soggy chicken.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the secret ingredient in Nashville hot chicken?
While there’s no single “secret” ingredient, cayenne pepper is the key to the characteristic heat. The balance of other spices like paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder contributes to the overall flavor profile.
Can I make Nashville hot rub ahead of time?
Yes! In fact, making it ahead of time allows the flavors to meld together even more. Store it in an airtight container for up to 6 months.
What can I use Nashville hot rub on besides chicken?
It’s delicious on pork chops, ribs, shrimp, and even roasted vegetables like potatoes and sweet potatoes.
How do I tone down the heat of Nashville hot chicken?
Serve it with cooling sides like coleslaw or mac and cheese. A drizzle of honey can also help to balance the heat.
Is Nashville hot chicken really that spicy?
It can be! Traditional Nashville hot chicken is known for its intense heat. But you can adjust the amount of cayenne pepper in the rub to your desired level of spiciness.
Summary
Nashville hot rub is a versatile spice blend that allows you to create flavorful and spicy dishes at home. This recipe provides a balanced blend of heat and flavor. With a little practice, you can create your own version of Nashville hot chicken or use the rub to add a fiery kick to other dishes.
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