Building a rub

[Speed]

So I am trying to play around with some new flavor combos and have a question for the experts. How do I use MSG in my rub? Do I substitue some of the salt or just add it to the rub? This is a comp rub I'm working on so yes, I want MSG in it! I persoanlly do not have a reaction to it and love the mouth feel it gives to my palate.

[BluDawg]

Just add it it does not increase the salt content.

[Speed]

Thank you kind sir.....how much would you say goes in to a typical 1 cup rub recipe?

[Papa Tom]

MSG WILL increase the saltiness taste so be careful.
MSG is not salty nor have flavor of it's own but does enhance other flavors of the mix.

[DATsBBQ]

Just me, but I won't exceed 1/16 tsp of msg per metric ton of rub.

[RWBTEX]

Have used it but truly has not made a difference as far as I can tell, will say use it sparingly.

[js-tx]

I also agree, use it sparingly. To me it adds a sharp taste, it does what it says it does, enhance.

[Speed]

Well, I made a couple of rubs up the other night and initially tasted them without MSG. I made about a cup of rub and added 1/2tsp of MSG. I can tell you that I could taste the difference! Without it in there, the rubs just seemed flat and not well rounded. Once I put in the MSG, it seemed complete and I could taste alot more of the savory flavors in the rub. I'm going to have to figure out the balance of flavors in my rubs though. I need to google some rub building formulas I guess....lol

[txngent]

Speed I agree with the favor addition MSG makes. I am old enough to say I was raised with Accent as my "go to" spice when the coals were lit. Just like shake and it makes everything better!

[BigDave]

Well one little factoid to remember. A little msg in a rub can improve the taste because it is concentrated directly on the taste buds. Now you go pouring that rub with a little amoumt of msg on a big ole chunch of brisket and your mileage is gonna vary big time. That little bit of msg on a brisket will have no effect IMHO. Its gonna take TOC (time on cooker) to see how much of that nasty stuff you really need in that rub to make a difference after cooking.