The OG BBQ Seasoning: Why SPG Rubs Belong in Every Kitchen

Shop the best SPG rubs and learn why salt, pepper, garlic blends are the backbone of BBQ

The OG of BBQ Seasonings: Why SPG Rubs Are a Must-Have in Every Spice Cabinet

In the world of barbecue, trends come and go. But there are a few foundational seasonings that never leave a pitmaster's side. Chief among them is the mighty SPG rub—short for Salt, Pepper, and Garlic. This simple, powerful blend has earned its spot as a go-to rub across BBQ styles, from Texas brisket to backyard burgers. It's commonly referred to by many names: SPG rub, all-purpose rub, AP rub, OG rub, house seasoning, and more. But no matter what you call it, its purpose is the same: to let the meat shine while adding balanced, savory depth.

In this deep dive, we’ll cover:

What an SPG rub is (and what it isn’t)
Why SPG rubs are considered the "OG rub" of BBQ
Breaking down the salt, pepper, and garlic trio
How SPG rubs pair with different proteins
How pitmasters use SPG
Top SPG rubs at DDR BBQ Supply
How to layer SPG with other rubs
How to make your own SPG rub
Why SPG isn't boring—it's foundational
Where to buy SPG rubs

What Is an SPG Rub?

SPG stands for Salt, Pepper, Garlic. That’s it. The base is simple, but don't let that fool you. In the right ratios and with the right quality of ingredients, SPG is one of the most effective flavor tools in BBQ. It highlights meat's natural umami, enhances crust formation, and pairs well with smoke without competing with it.

In traditional Texas BBQ, SPG is all you need—especially for beef. Some purists even stop at salt and pepper (a la Sucklebusters 1836 Rub), but garlic adds a savory punch that gives SPG a slight edge in complexity. You can use SPG alone or as a foundational layer under more complex rubs.

Why It's Called the OG Rub

Before boutique blends, before competition rubs with 18 ingredients, SPG was the original. It’s the seasoning your grandfather probably used. It was the first blend many backyard cooks learned to make by feel. That’s why it's often called:

OG Rub – Because it was likely your "original go-to" seasoning
All-Purpose Rub – Because it works on every protein and side
House Rub – Because every BBQ family has their own version
SPG or AP Rub – The technical BBQ terms used by pros

Breaking Down the SPG Trio

Salt: The foundation. Enhances natural flavor and helps draw moisture to the surface, forming crust. Kosher or sea salt is preferred for its flake size.
Black Pepper: Adds heat, aroma, and texture. Coarse grind is standard in BBQ to help build bark and bite.
Garlic: Rounds out the profile with deep, savory notes. Granulated garlic is preferred over garlic powder for texture and flavor.

SPG's Role in Protein Pairings

SPG isn't just for brisket—though it excels there. It works beautifully on:

Beef: Especially brisket, steaks, tri-tip, burgers, and short ribs. Enhances umami and builds bark.
Pork: Especially pork chops, pork loin, and shoulder. Acts as a base layer under sweet rubs.
Chicken: Season skin and cavity for even flavor. Garlic adds welcome depth.
Lamb & Game: Accentuates rich cuts like lamb loin or venison steaks.
Seafood: Works well in moderation on grilled shrimp or salmon, especially when paired with lemon.

How Pitmasters Use SPG

Solo: On high-end proteins where simplicity rules (brisket, steak)
As a base rub: Under sweet or spicy rubs to add structure and balance
As a finishing rub: Light dusting after slicing to restore pop and salt
On veggies & sides: Roasted potatoes, grilled corn, mushrooms, and more

Top SPG Rubs at DDR BBQ Supply

Double Dun Ranch BBQ SPG All Purpose BBQ Rub

This clean, bold blend of salt, pepper, garlic, and savory notes brings balance to brisket, ribs, and grilled veggies. Developed by competition cooks who understand bark and bite, this rub is a pantry essential for backyard pitmasters.

Why it's great: Balanced profile, bold garlic, and works on everything.

Sucklebusters SPG All-Purpose Rub

No sugar, no filler—just a Texas-style SPG rub that delivers clean, sharp seasoning for brisket, steak, or even scrambled eggs. Sucklebusters keeps it simple and true to form, making this rub ideal for purists and pros alike.

Why it's great: Clean and classic SPG with no sugar or additives.

Tuffy Stone All Purpose The Big Umami Rub

From the mind of BBQ legend Tuffy Stone comes this savory powerhouse that leans into umami without losing its SPG foundation. It’s especially good on pork and mushrooms, offering layered flavor in every bite.

Why it's great: Rich umami backbone adds depth beyond salt and garlic.

Texas Pepper Jelly APS Seasoning

APS stands for All-Purpose Seasoning, and it delivers. This SPG-style blend is enhanced with a slight pepper jelly heat signature, making it unique without straying too far from the classic SPG profile. Great on chicken, pork, and fish.

Why it's great: Hints of sweet heat and garlic round out the classic trio.

Kosmos Q All Purpose SPG Rub

Known for their competition-ready flavors, Kosmos Q's All Purpose rub hits hard with coarse-ground salt, garlic, and cracked pepper. It’s bold, intense, and made for high-heat grilling or low-and-slow smoking alike.

Why it's great: Competition-proven blend with a strong SPG punch.

Layering SPG with Other Rubs

One of the most powerful techniques in BBQ is rub layering. SPG makes the perfect base because it establishes the essential savory flavor before adding specialty profiles.

SPG + Sweet Rub: Apply SPG first, then follow with a brown sugar or honey-based rub like Meat Church Honey Hog.
SPG + Spicy Rub: Use SPG for structure, then add a spicy top layer like Craig's Chipotle or Holy Voodoo.
SPG + Citrus Rub: Great on chicken or seafood—add a lemon-pepper rub on top of SPG for bright flavor.

How to Make Your Own SPG

If you're DIY-minded, you can easily make a batch at home. Here’s a starter ratio to test:

4 parts kosher salt
2 parts coarse black pepper
1.5 parts granulated garlic

Adjust to taste. Some folks like more garlic; others want a heavy pepper profile. Try small batches until you find your groove. Store in an airtight shaker for daily use.

SPG Isn’t Boring. It’s Foundational.

Some folks overlook SPG because it lacks flash. But its versatility, reliability, and ability to support other flavors make it a foundational weapon in any BBQ arsenal. Whether you're just learning how to season meat or you’re fine-tuning your flavor strategy for comps, an SPG rub gives you a solid base to build from.

It’s the kind of rub that disappears behind the meat—but in the best way. It makes every bite taste more like itself, and that’s the ultimate compliment to good cooking.

Shop SPG Rubs at DDR BBQ Supply

Ready to taste what a great SPG rub can do? DDR BBQ Supply stocks a curated lineup of all-purpose SPG-style rubs from trusted pitmaster brands. Whether you’re looking for a simple salt-pepper-garlic blend or a buttery variation that still stays true to the OG formula, we’ve got what your grill needs.

Shop our full rub collection and add a true workhorse seasoning to your lineup.

Did our blog meet your needs? You might also find these guides helpful:

Visit Us at our Retail Store or Online BBQ Store

Our online BBQ store is open 24-7 but if you'd rather shop in person, visit our retail store in Northwest Arkansas. You can shop top-quality grills, smokers, the best BBQ rubs and sauces, accessories, and expert advice.

Natives to San Antonio, Texas we take Texas BBQ seriously and have a variety of items you won't find anywhere else.

Whether you're looking for something specific or just want to explore the best in BBQ gear, we’re here to help you cook with confidence. You’ll find top-quality grills, smokers, BBQ rubs, sauces, accessories, and expert advice you won't find online. Stop by and experience hands-on shopping the way it should be!

We're located at 14696 US Hwy 62, Garfield, AR 72732. We're open Tuesday through Saturday from 10 AM to 6 PM. Come pay us a visit!

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