Is All Purpose Seasoning a Good Choice for Grilling and BBQ Cooking?

beecoolproducts
Jun 17
4 min read

When you fire up the grill, the seasoning you choose can elevate your meal from ordinary to extraordinary. All purpose seasoning has become a favorite among home cooks, but does it really deliver when it comes to grilling and BBQ? In this post, we will explore what all purpose seasoning is, its benefits, potential drawbacks, and how it fares as a go-to seasoning for your outdoor cooking.

What is All Purpose Seasoning?

All purpose seasoning is a blend of spices and herbs designed to enhance a variety of dishes. Common ingredients include salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and others that vary by brand or homemade recipe. For example, a popular all purpose seasoning might contain 40% salt, 25% garlic powder, 20% onion powder, and 15% other spices. This blend allows grilling enthusiasts to enhance the flavor of meats and vegetables without needing multiple spice jars.

The Benefits of Using All Purpose Seasoning

Convenience

One of the main draws of all purpose seasoning is its convenience. Imagine throwing a BBQ after a long week at work. You don't want to spend your time measuring out spices. With all purpose seasoning, you can coat your meats and veggies quickly. For instance, a study showed that 65% of home cooks prefer seasonings that save time on meal prep.

Balanced Flavor Profile

All purpose seasonings are crafted to provide a balanced flavor. This means they enhance the food's natural tastes without overpowering them. For instance, when used on grilled chicken, a good all purpose seasoning can add a savory kick while still allowing the chicken's juiciness to shine through.

Versatile Use

All purpose seasoning is incredibly versatile. Whether you are grilling chicken, steak, or vegetables, this seasoning can work across different types of food. This makes it an attractive option for anyone who loves BBQ, as it simplifies the cooking process and reduces the number of ingredients you need on hand.

How to Use All Purpose Seasoning for Grilling

Marinades

All purpose seasoning makes a great addition to marinades. Mix it with oil, vinegar, and ingredients like lemon juice or herbs. Let your meat marinate for a few hours or even overnight. This can make a big difference in flavor, allowing the seasoning time to penetrate your meat. For instance, marinating chicken breasts for four hours can enhance flavor absorption by up to 60%.

Rubs

Using all purpose seasoning as a dry rub is another popular application. Coat the meat generously to lock in flavors while grilling. For example, a good rub can sear in flavors and moisture, resulting in a tender and flavorful cut of beef.

Sprinkling

For a quick flavor boost, sprinkle all purpose seasoning on your grilled veggies or meats during the last few minutes of cooking. This is a simple way to enhance your dish with almost no added effort.

Potential Drawbacks

Sodium Content

Many all purpose seasonings contain a significant amount of salt. Depending on the brand, this can be as high as 300 milligrams of sodium per teaspoon. If you are watching your sodium intake, check the labels carefully. Opting for low-sodium options or making your own mix can be a good strategy.

Uniformity of Flavor

While all purpose seasoning is convenient, it may lack the complexity of individual spices. For specialized flavors, incorporating herbs or spices that appeal to you, such as smoked paprika or chili powder, can elevate your dish beyond what a standard blend may offer.

Alternatives to All Purpose Seasoning

Specialty Blends

If you crave unique flavors, specialty seasoning blends can provide exciting flavor combinations. For instance, a BBQ rub designed specifically for pork may contain brown sugar, smoked paprika, and other spices to enhance sweetness and char.

Homemade Blends

Creating your own seasoning blend gives you full control over the flavor profile. By mixing your favorite herbs and spices, you can create a blend that aligns with your personal taste preferences. For example, combining cumin, smoked paprika, and oregano can yield a flavorful mix that complements grilled meats.

Tips for Choosing the Right All Purpose Seasoning

When picking an all purpose seasoning for grilling and BBQ, keep these tips in mind:

Read the Ingredients

Choose products made with natural herbs and spices. Avoid those with artificial additives or preservatives. The cleaner the ingredient list, the better for both your health and your cooking.

Flavor Profile

Flavor can differ widely between various all purpose seasonings. Some may lean more towards herbaceous or smoky flavors. Trying different blends can be part of the fun of grilling.

Grilling Techniques to Maximize Flavor

Using all purpose seasoning helps and, when combined with effective grilling techniques, can create a truly delicious experience.

Direct vs. Indirect Heat

Using direct heat suits quick-cooking meats like burgers or chicken breasts, while larger cuts like brisket or ribs cook best over indirect heat. This approach reduces the risk of burning and enhances tenderness.

Don’t Overcrowd the Grill

Leave space between your meats and veggies to ensure even cooking. Overcrowding can trap steam, resulting in less char and flavor. Just giving each piece enough room can significantly improve grill marks and flavor.

Monitor Cooking Time

Different meats and vegetables require distinct cooking times. For example, chicken may take 20 to 30 minutes, while larger cuts can need up to several hours. Using a meat thermometer helps you hit the perfect doneness without guesswork, leading to juicy and well-cooked food.

Wrapping Up

All purpose seasoning can be a fantastic option for grilling and BBQ cooking. Its convenience, balanced flavor profile, and versatility appeal to both novice and experienced grillers. However, being mindful of sodium levels and understanding its flavor limitations are crucial.

Finally, whether you stick with all purpose seasoning or explore other spices, the joy of grilling comes from experimentation, creativity, and sharing delicious meals with those you love. Happy grilling!