Emeril Lagasse makes a wonderful spice rub he calls “Emeril’s Essence.”  I love it, and I use it.  But often, I add or subtract stuff, depending on what I’m making.  I am posting here a spice rub that started out as his “Essence,” but I have altered it just a bit to fit my BBQ pork recipes.  It is very similar, but I have added some ground ginger and chili powder to the rub–just a wee bit.  And if you want it to be the best rub you’ve ever tasted, take the time to find the smoked paprika and chipotle chili powder.  They make the world of difference in the flavor.  You can use regular paprika and chili powder, but the rub won’t have the same flavor or the same kick.  Here it is:

• 2 1/2 tablespoons smoked paprika
• 2 tablespoons kosher salt
• 2 tablespoons garlic powder
• 1 tablespoon light brown granulated brown sugar
• 1 tablespoon fine-ground white pepper
• 1tablespoon onion powder
• 2 teaspoons cayenne pepper
• 1 tablespoon dried oregano
• 1 tablespoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon chipotle chili powder
• 1 teaspoon ground ginger