3 Reasons to Create Your Own Barbecue Spices and Sauces

The selection of sauces in a kit opens up all sorts of flavor possibilities. (Zombie Cajun/)

For the grill master who seemingly has everything, there is always something else he or she wants: another type of smoking wood, beefier tongs, a 4-channel Wi-Fi/Bluetooth BBQ Alarm Thermometer. If you are scratching your head over what to bestow upon the pit master in your family (even if that's you), take a look at some of the spice and sauce samplers intended to get the most out of your next barbecue or tailgate party.

Spice Sets

Having a selection of spices at hand makes it easy to blend and create your own barbecue rubs. (FreshJax/)

Great grilling means great spices. But sometimes we get stuck in a rut, shaking and massaging the same old dry rub on every cut of meat. A smoking sampler pack is the perfect way to spark creativity at the grill and find new combinations that will broaden the repertoire of any outdoor chef.

Sauce Selections

If you’re looking for a sauce flavor you can’t find on the grocery shelf, consider creating your own. (Zombie Cajun/)

Even though real BBQ magic happens over hot coals, a gift pack of hot sauces can perk up any recipe or add a nice touch of variety to serving and presentation. Scratch cooks and DIYers will appreciate a sauce lab of their own, complete with pepper blends, sauce bottles, instructions, and even a sciencey-looking funnel.

Smoke in a Bottle

When it comes to sauces, everyone is a critic, so create one that’s suited for your palate. (Oklahoma Joe/)

What is the best kind of barbecue sauce? That depends on what state you are standing in when you ask. But there is no doubt that Kansas City-style sauce, which is known for its sweet and tangy combination of molasses, tomato sauce, and vinegar, is among the most revered and emulated. Want to experiment and stir up a sauce of your own? Get creative with a little smoke in a bottle in any of four woody flavors. Liquid Smoke is great for everything from sauces to jerky brines.