Be it a family picnic or an outdoor BBQ party with your mates, having just the right sauces to help you create tantalizing flavours is a must for the serious BBQ lover.

As sauces and rubs can make or break any BBQ, it is important to shop with extra care, knowledge and to be selective. To help with this utmost important decision making, we've compiled a list of the most frequently asked questions to guide you on your bbq meat rub, sauce and marinade journey.

BBQ Rubs, BBQ Sauces and BBQ Marinade FAQs

1. What is the difference between marinade and barbecue sauce?

Both sauces and marinades are great ways to add flavour to your grilled food! Sauces can add moisture and protect against drying out, while marinades help tenderize the meat and add flavour.

2. How long does BBQ marinade last?

Most BBQ sauces come with a best-by-date of 1 to 2 years. However, it can easily last for a couple of months past the printed date.

3. How do I use barbecue seasoning?

You can either use it immediately before cooking as a steak seasoning or as we prefer apply it to your meat 30mins prior to cooking. You can even use it as a dry brine for larger cuts of meat. There are a plethora of ways to season and barbecue meat and vegetables.

4. How long can a rub be applied to meat before cooking?

You can apply a rub right before you cook or a few hours ahead of time for basic grilling or up to 24 hours ahead if you're hot-smoking. 

5. Can I use the same rub for different types of meat?

Yes, many rubs are versatile enough for different meats like beef, pork, and chicken. However, it’s good to tweak the ingredients based on the meat’s flavour. For example, pork pairs well with sweeter rubs, while beef often works better with spicier options.

6. How can I tell if my marinade has gone bad?

Spoiled marinades usually have a bad smell, a change in colour, or become slimy. Always refrigerate marinades and avoid using them after 5-7 days.

7. What's the best way to store homemade BBQ rubs and sauces?

Sauces should be refrigerated in a sealed container and used within two weeks to retain flavour and quality. Dry-rubs will stay fresh for about six months if kept in an air-tight jar in a cool, dark place.

8. Can I reuse marinade after soaking raw meat?

It’s unsafe to reuse marinades that have soaked raw meat due to bacteria. If you’d like to use the marinade as a sauce, make sure to boil it thoroughly to kill any harmful bacteria.

9. What’s the difference between a wet and dry marinade?

A dry marinade (or rub) consists of dry spices and herbs applied directly to the meat, while a wet marinade includes liquids like oil, vinegar, or citrus, helping tenderise and flavour the meat.

10. Do different types of wood affect the flavour of BBQ sauces?

Yes, the type of wood used in smoking can influence the sauce’s flavour. Woods like hickory add a stronger, smoky taste, while fruitwoods such as apple or cherry lend a sweeter, milder flavour.

Our Curated Range of BBQ Rubs, Sauces and Marinades

From 7 Sins BBQ to Heath Riles, at Smoked BBQ Co, we have a wide range of BBQ rubs, seasonings, and sauces in Australia to suit any taste or occasion. Spicing up meats and vegetables has never been this easy and fun. Whether you crave a smoked hickory flavour or want to get a delicious glaze, we have everything you need.

Discover our range of BBQ Rubs, Sauces & Marinades. See also American BBQ Rubs | Australian BBQ Rubs | New Zealand BBQ Rubs | Gluten Free BBQ Rubs & Sauces

Have More Rub, Sauce or Marinade Queries?

We love making personalised recommendations. Chat with the team online or instore today. Or call us at 07 55727790.