By Bill Ohaire | Published: April 2026 | Last Updated: April 2026
Quick Answer
Apply Outback Spice rub to beef and rest for 1-12 hours (overnight for brisket). Cook at 110-260°C (225-500°F) depending on cut using low and slow for tough cuts, hot and fast for steaks until internal temp reaches 54-63°C (130-145°F) depending on preference.
About Outback Spice Rub
Outback Spice rub delivers a earthy, aromatic, uniquely Australian flavour profile that pairs brilliantly with beef. A uniquely Australian rub using native bush spices. Lemon myrtle adds citrus aroma, wattleseed adds nutty depth. Source from Australian native spice suppliers.
Flavour
earthy, aromatic, uniquely Australian
Rest After Applying
1-12 hours (overnight for brisket)
Cook Temp
110-260°C (225-500°F) depending on cut
Best Cuts
brisket, short ribs, ribeye, rump steak
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Amount |
| ground lemon myrtle | 1 tsp |
| wattleseed | 1 tsp |
| native pepperberry | 1/2 tsp |
| bush tomato (ground) | 1 tsp |
| garlic powder | 1 tbsp |
| smoked paprika | 1 tbsp |
| salt | 1 tsp |
| brown sugar | 1 tsp |
Makes enough for approximately 1-1.5kg of meat.
How to Apply Outback Spice Rub to Beef
- Mix the rub: Combine all dry ingredients in a bowl. Break up any brown sugar clumps with a fork.
- Prep the beef: Pat the meat completely dry with paper towel. Trim any excess surface fat if needed.
- Apply a binder: Lightly coat the beef with yellow mustard or olive oil. This helps the rub stick — you won't taste the mustard after cooking.
- Apply the rub: Generously coat all surfaces with the rub, pressing it into the meat. Don't be shy — a thick, even layer creates the best bark.
- Rest: Let the rubbed meat sit for 1-12 hours (overnight for brisket) in the fridge (uncovered for better bark formation).
- Cook: BBQ at 110-260°C (225-500°F) depending on cut using low and slow for tough cuts, hot and fast for steaks until the internal temperature reaches 54-63°C (130-145°F) depending on preference.
Tips for the Best Results
- Pat the meat dry — moisture is the enemy of a good bark. Dry surfaces create better crust.
- Don't rush the rest — letting the rub sit on the meat allows the salt to penetrate and the spices to bloom.
- Apply generously — a thin dusting won't cut it. You want a visible, even layer across the entire surface.
- Store extra rub — this mix keeps in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Make a double batch.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Wet meat surface — if the meat isn't dry, the rub won't adhere and you'll get a soggy crust instead of a bark.
- Too much sugar on high heat — the brown sugar in this rub will burn if cooked too hot. Keep temperatures moderate.
- Skipping the binder — mustard or oil helps the rub stick. Without it, half your seasoning falls off on the grill.
- Not enough rub — err on the side of generous. The flavour concentrates as moisture evaporates during cooking.
Best Cooking Methods for Outback Spice Beef
Cook your outback spice-rubbed beef using low and slow for tough cuts, hot and fast for steaks at 110-260°C (225-500°F) depending on cut.
For brisket and short ribs, low and slow is the only way. For steaks, sear hard and fast over direct heat.
Target internal temperature: 54-63°C (130-145°F) depending on preference.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How long should outback spice rub sit on beef before cooking?
Let the outback spice rub rest on beef for 1-12 hours (overnight for brisket). This allows the salt to penetrate and the flavours to develop. For low and slow cooks, overnight in the fridge produces the best results.
Can I use outback spice rub on other meats?
Yes! Outback Spice rub works well on chicken, pork ribs, lamb. Adjust the rest time and cooking method based on the protein.
How long does outback spice dry rub keep?
Store in an airtight container in a cool, dark place for up to 3 months. The brown sugar may clump over time — just break it up with a fork before using.
Should I use a binder with outback spice rub?
Yes, a thin coat of yellow mustard or olive oil helps the rub adhere to the meat surface. The mustard flavour cooks off completely — you won't taste it in the finished product.
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Sources & References
2
Guga Foods (YouTube)
Premium beef experiments — dry ageing, wagyu, and creative steak techniques.
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3
Serious Eats
Kenji Lopez-Alt's food science approach to grilling the perfect steak.
Reference
4
Weber Grill Skills
Australia's most popular grill brand — guides for every cut and cooking method.
Manufacturer