Thai Inspired Seasoning – BBQ and Grilling

There’s something magical about the flavor of Thai BBQ. Smoky, spicy, sweet, and savory all at once. It captures the complexity of Thai cuisine in every bite. At the heart of this flavor explosion is this Thai seasoning inspired by traditional flavors. A bold blend that brings the street food of Bangkok right to your grill or smoker. Whether you’re barbecuing meat, seafood, or even vegetables, this Thai seasoning can instantly elevate your dish with its signature balance of heat and sweet and savory.

Let Talk About Thai Chili Powder

A key component of Thai BBQ seasoning is Thai chili powder (Prik Bon). Unlike generic chili powders, Thai chili powder is made from sun-dried Thai bird’s eye chilies, roasted and ground into a fine, smoky powder. It’s fiery, but it doesn’t just bring heat—it adds flavor depth. You’ll often find it combined with garlic powder, onion powder, lemongrass and sugar to create that unmistakable Thai umami.

Here is the link to the one I personally use. It is definitely on the spicy side but it’s the star of the show so let it shine.

Pro Tips: Thai Seasoning for the Grill and BBQ

Like all my simple rub recipes here are some tips to get the most out of your efforts.

• No Salt – This is a salt free recipe so you can add your own salt before applying the rub. Use about 1 teaspoon of kosher salt per pound of meat.
• Dry Brine or Marinate – Apply salt and rub and let the meat hang out in the fridge for a few hours to dry brine. If marinating, combine salt, rub, oil, soy sauce and a squeeze of lime!
• Sear to perfection – The sugar in the blend caramelizes beautifully on high heat—perfect for getting that irresistible char. Just make sure to not burn it!
• Great on Everything – This rub goes well with chicken, beef, pork, vegetables and even tofu if that’s your thing.

Print Recipe

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Thai Seasoning

Easy and robust flavor to use in the kitchen or on the grill

Prep Time5 minutes mins

Total Time5 minutes mins

Course: Main Course, Rub

Cuisine: Thai

Keyword: thai, thai seasoning

Servings: 1

Cost: $5

Ingredients

• 1 tablespoon Thai chili powder
• 1 tablespoon garlic powder
• 1 tablespoon brown sugar
• 1/2 tablespoon dried lemon peel
• 1/2 tablespoon sesame seeds
• 1/2 tablespoon ginger powder
• 1/2 tablespoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon turmeric powder
• 1 teaspoon black pepper

Instructions

• Mix to combine. Store airtight for up to a month.

Notes

As always, this seasoning doesn’t include salt.  Salt should be applied at a rate of 1 teaspoon per pound of meat and then seasoning rub afterwards.