The Unexpected Seasoning You Should Be Adding To Your Barbecue

Backyard barbecues are more than just a harbinger of summer — they are part of the American fabric. They remind us of what's really important and put a long day's toil into perspective as we break bread and dig into some delicious steaks or burgers with family and friends. Throw in some cornhole or a water balloon fight, and we've got ourselves a party. Of course, all you have to do is check out the number of grills that have been sold to realize how popular this method of cooking is. Per Statista, approximately $1.36 billion was spent on grills and barbecues in the United States in 2019 alone. That's a lot of Andrew Jacksons, if you ask us, but money well spent, for sure.

When you think of barbecuing, your first thought might be of that rich, tangy, and sweet tomato sauce that we use as a marinade or brush on to meats as we cook. But, there are so many other ingredients you can use when grilling to enhance the taste of your meats and vegetables, including one unexpected ingredient that you've probably never considered. The good news is you probably have it in your pantry and it is easy on the pocket book. Translation? You can save your money for a nicer cut of meat. 

A writer for Eater.com shared that the little seasoning packet from a college staple can add incredible flavor to your barbecue meats. The writer noted that he is a fan of the brand Shin Ramyun, and uses if for just about everything, writing, "I use extra packets of ramen seasoning for everything, from making a soup base for kimchi jjigae to lightly sprinkling it on fries." But he also revealed that he tried it as a rub for barbecue pork belly and the results were so good, he had to share. 

The Eater.com writer noted that he used a criss-cross cut on his meat so the seasoning would soak in and add its flavor. After an hour, he cooked it and found the meat to be some of the best he had ever had — flavorful, crunchy on the outside, and juicy on the inside. It was also suggested that rubbing the meat with a little sesame oil before sprinkling on the ramen seasoning could add an additional layer of flavor. However, the writer cautioned that he would avoid the chicken flavor Top Ramen seasoning packet for meat and instead stick with the spicier options. If you really want to get creative, you can add it to your grilled vegetables, as well. Tasting Table shares that it works great on potatoes.