CROIX VALLEY: Spicy Barbecue Booster | Spicy Seasoning | 170g (6oz) shaker

A genuine kick without the scorch

Spicy Barbecue Booster is Croix Valley's answer for cooks who want real heat without losing the seasoning underneath it. It's built by a family whose competition rubs and sauces have taken out nine World Championship titles between them, so the heat is balanced rather than bolted on. Medium heat, honestly labelled — a genuine kick, not a scorcher.

The flavour

A savoury, paprika-forward base leads before the chilli heat builds through the middle, warm and steady rather than sharp. There's a touch of garlic and cracked pepper alongside it for backbone. The finish carries a lingering, moreish warmth that sits in the back of the throat without demanding a glass of water.

How to cook with it

• Toss chicken wings in oil and a generous coating before they go on the grill, then finish with a light second dust for extra heat.
• Season burger patties on both sides and press it in before they hit a hot grill or flat-top.
• Dust corn cobs with butter and a solid shake straight off the grill while they're still hot enough to melt it in.
• Season fries or wedges right out of the fryer while the oil is still glossy, so the seasoning actually sticks.
• Stir a pinch into scrambled eggs or a Bloody Mary mix for a spicy lift well away from the barbecue.

In the shaker

A deep reddish-brown blend with visible chilli flecks through a fine, even grind that pours steadily. It builds heat gradually rather than all at once, so it's easy to control by how heavily you shake it on.

Ingredients & Dietary

Ingredients (from the brand's label): Granulated Garlic, Sugar, Salt, Spices, Chile Peppers.

Dietary: Vegan and no MSG (brand claim); the brand doesn't state gluten free status for this one — always check the physical label.

The Rub Smuggler's Verdict

A genuine kick lives in this shaker, not a scorcher, so it suits anyone who actually wants to taste the seasoning underneath the heat. Season early for a slow build, or dust it late for a sharper hit. Brush wings with Uncle Mungo's garlic bhut jolokia sauce if the table's after more fire. Cool the table down with BBQ Mafia Big Paulie Alabama White Sauce on the side for dipping.

Questions answered

How hot is Spicy Barbecue Booster?

The brand rates it as medium — a genuine kick, not a scorcher — so it suits most heat-friendly eaters without being extreme.

What's it best on?

Wings, burgers, corn and fries, though as an all-purpose seasoning it can go on most things you'd put barbecue seasoning on.