There’s just something so special about smoke billowing from a barbecue pit and the scent of ribs mingling with the fresh outdoor air. Maybe it’s the red solo cups filled to the brim with beer or the gathering of family and friends enjoying each other’s company. When summer in South Texas rolls around, having a cookout is essential. For my family, a cookout means using the specialty rubs from 2 Gringos Chupacabra to get the best flavor out of our savory meats.
2 Gringos Chupacabra is a San Antonio-based company that makes the finest barbecue products you will find. Their rubs have become my family’s secret weapon ever since my dad stumbled upon their rubs during a trip to our local Livingoods Feed to pick up dog food. Aware that Livingoods Feed displays locally-made products and intrigued by the rub’s humorous labeling, my dad decided it might be worth a try—and it sure was!
Along with their rubs, 2 Gringos Chupacabra makes jerky, sausage, chips and salsa. For my family’s summer barbecue, we used the meat rub and Cajun blend rub for the chicken and ribs.
Described as an “all-purpose” seasoning, the meat rub can be used on meats, vegetables and fish. To be honest, I’ve even sprinkled it onto beans to add an extra kick to the side dish. The rub uses a blend of spices to create a balanced flavor that does not overpower the meat. Just a light sprinkle of the rub produces a large, flavorful payout—and you’ll still want to add more! We’ve used Chupacabra rub on chicken that has been grilled, baked and put in the crockpot, and all the results were the same: a mouthwatering meal.
The Cajun blend rub has a subtle difference from the meat rub. According to the 2 Gringos Chupacabra website, the Cajun blend includes a few extra herbs than the original rub, which adds a spicy undertone and a hint of zest.
Last but not least, as we waited for the ribs and chicken to cook, we munched on the 2 Gringos Chupacabra mild salsa. The mild salsa is a thorough blend of tomatoes, jalapeños, serrano peppers and onions that create a homemade feel with a gentle picante. Their mild is ideal for those who enjoy salsa, but value their tastebuds’ safety. For those who like a spicer finish, the medium may be a more suitable option.
If you’re looking for products to take your barbecue to the next level, it is safe to say that you must give 2 Gringos Chupacabra a try. I guarantee that once you try their rubs, you’ll want to put it on everything. You can find their products at many retailers throughout San Antonio—like how we found it at our local Livingoods Feed. Check out their website to find the closest retailer near you or you can order their products online.
Sign up for the SA Flavor Newsletter for all the best of SA without the spam! And be sure to shop the SA Flavor Store for the best Fiesta Medals, stickers, shirts and more!
