The BBQ season is upon us with early warm temperatures. And with BBQ, it's nice to get the meat on the grill easily, and focus your attention on other things, like what wine to drink. Our favorite BBQ seasoning is a dry rub. It makes the meat taste great, plus it is quick. Make up a batch and keep it in a large old spice jar. Then, when the mood strikes, by the time the BBQ is ready for the meat, the meat is ready for the BBQ. 

A red wine works well with a tri-tip or sirloin steak and this rub. With lots of garlic in this rub, we recommend pairing it with the Bambino Grande. Our fun-loving grandfather, Bambino Diorio, would want you to sip this wine while enjoying an easy meal and the company of friends

Make a quick trip to a Smart and Final store near you for the source of the ingredients:

2 1/2 cups Diamond Crystal Kosher salt*
2 cups Granulated Garlic Powder
3/4 cup New Mexico Ground Chili
1 TB Onion Powder
1 TB Cayenne

Carefully combine the ingredients to thoroughly mix. Keep in an airtight container. 

To use: Remove steak (sirloin or tri-tip recommended) from refrigerator, place on cutting board. Liberally sprinkle each side of steak with Rub, approximately 1 Tablespoon per side, but to taste. Cover and allow to sit while you prepare the BBQ. BBQ as usual, with no fear of burning a sugar-based sauce.

*Kosher salt grains come in different sizes. If you use a different brand 2 1/2 cups will be either too much or not enough. Not a huge problem, just keep it in mind.