pork spice rub {paleo,gluten free}

I have been so intrigued lately, with creating my own seasoning blends and dressings. I just find that when you can choose your own ingredients, it is not only a healthier option, but you can choose the flavors you like. Yes, it is probably more convenient to buy it already made in a bottle, but sometimes they throw in preservatives, caking agents and terrible oils, ohhh and sometimes gluten, who knew? It might be more time consuming, but make a big batch and you have enough for many uses. This rub, I love for pork, any pork. I apply liberally to roasts, chops and tenderloin, but my favorite is a slow cooked pork shoulder. This rub has simple flavors, that bring out the richness in pork, that elevates the flavor. Make a double batch and store it in a glass mason jar in your spice drawer. You will be so happy come grilling season that you did!

This beautiful pork dish above, is a pork shoulder that I cubed up, tossed with my delicious spice rub and threw on a sheet pan with onions in a 300˚F oven for 45 minutes. It was break apart tender, so flavorful and a perfect, quick meal on a busy night. You can have it with tortilla shells and all of the fixings or with some simple sides like sweet potatoes and a green salad. Good food doesn't need to be hard, with a little planning and the right ingredients, it's really easy.

* I like using organic, single spices from Simply Organic Spices (This starter kit contains almost all of the ingredients in this recipe, and a few additions) or Frontier Organic Spices. For an even more inexpensive option, go to your local Coop or farmers market and they may sell bulk organic spices.

What you will need

• 1/4 cup coconut sugar

• 1/4 tsp. chili powder

• 1 Tbs. sweet paprika

• 1 Tbs. thyme

• 1/4 tsp. cayanne

• 1/2 tsp. garlic powder

• 1/2 tsp. onion powder

• 2 tsp. salt

• 1 tsp. black pepper

Combine all spices together in a bowl and whisk together, so all ingredients are blended evenly. Store in an air tight mason jar and keep in spice drawer.

* One of my favorite wraps to use with pork is my Plantain Shells. These are so easy to make and amazing filled with pork and all of your favorite toppings.