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Best BBQ rubs, sauces and marinades

by Lucy Hall

published on 5 June 2025

Are you looking to plan some long summer evenings with friends, but feel worried about pulling together the perfect barbecue spread? From zesty twists on classic rubs to the house BBQ sauce recipe you’ll be living off all year round, we’re here to help you ensure maximum flavour with our ultimate guide to the best rubs, sauces and marinades for your summer event.

Rubs

Mexican Rub

Mexican Rub

by DJ BBQ

This delicious, super-spicy Mexican rub is perfect with fish, pork and chicken.

Everyday Rub

by Neil Rankin

Slather this versatile rub on anything from mac and cheese to steaks.

Shawarma Rub

by Josh Katz

A perfectly seasoned recipe that works with both meats and vegetables for your summer barbecue.

Marinades

Jamaican Teriyaki Marinade

by Levi Roots

A classic Japanese sauce with a Jamaican twist; have it ready in the fridge for a barbecue recipe with a difference.

Pineapple and Rum Marinade

by Levi Roots

This sticky, sweet pineapple and rum sauce makes the flavour great and the meat deliciously tender.

Sauces

House BBQ Sauce

House BBQ Sauce

by Neil Rankin

This sauce is simple and flavoursome, and keeps for weeks.

Korean BBQ Sauce

by Neil Rankin

A punchy Korean-style sauce that goes with barbecued meats such as pulled pork, beef short ribs or chicken wings.

Buffalo Wing Sauce

by Neil Rankin

A classic and easy sauce that allows you to adjust the level of spice to your liking – the ultimate wing accompaniment.

Piri Piri Sauce

by DJ BBQ

This mouth-watering sauce will add a fiery heat to any dish. Make a batch and keep it in the fridge all year round.

Blackened Chilli Kebab Sauce

by Josh Katz

This fermented chilli sauce adds a zesty punch to any vegetable or meat kebab.

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