Mekong Rub Blend

The Mekong River is one of the most iconic rivers in Southeast Asia. It originates on the Tibetan Plateau and flows through several Southeast Asian countries before emptying into the South China Sea. The Mekong River plays a crucial role in the lives of the riparian populations, providing essential resources for agriculture, fishing, and transportation.

In addition to its ecological and economic importance, the Mekong is also rich in culture and history. The communities along its banks have developed lifestyles closely linked to the river, which has witnessed numerous civilisations and cultures over the centuries.

The name “Mekong” thus evokes much more than just a watercourse; it represents a dynamic and interconnected life along its shores, as well as a source of inspiration for products such as the Mekong Rub, which celebrate the unique aromas and flavours of this exceptional region.

The Mekong Rub Blend is a blend of carefully selected spices that capture the aromatic essence of the region. The plants and spices present in the blend are as follows:

• Palm sugar
• Fleur de sel
• Shallot
• Garlic
• White Kampot Pepper
• Lemongrass
• Galangal
• Ginger
• Turmeric
• Kumquat
• Kaffir lime leaves
• Star anise
• Bird’s Eye Chilli

Each spice in the Mekong Rub Blend is precisely selected to create a harmonious balance of flavours, evoking the culinary delights of the Mekong region.

Using the Mekong Rub Blend offers a rich and diverse culinary experience. Here are some suggestions for using this exotic spice blend in your cooking:

• Marinades: Use the spice blend as a base to create savoury marinades. Mix it with olive oil, lemon juice, or soy sauce, then massage it into the meat, whether chicken, pork, or beef. Let it rest to allow the flavours to infuse, then grill or cook according to your preferences.
• Grilled Dishes: Generously apply the Mekong Rub to your favourite grilled items, such as shrimp skewers, pork ribs, or vegetables. The unique combination of spices will add an exotic and fragrant dimension to your grilled dishes.
• Roasted Vegetables: Sprinkle it over vegetables like sweet potatoes, carrots, or Brussels sprouts before roasting them in the oven. The warm, spicy aromas will deliciously enhance the natural flavours of the vegetables.
• Stews and Sauces: Incorporate the rub into your stews, curries, pasta sauces, or casseroles. The complex spices in the rub will add a depth of flavour, transforming your dishes into a memorable gastronomic experience.
• Dry Rub for Roasting: Use the blend as a dry rub for meats you are roasting in the oven. Whether it’s a whole chicken, a beef roast, or even duck legs, the rub will impart a layer of delicious aromas.
• Creative Dishes: Explore creative dishes by adding a touch of Mekong Rub to your favourite recipes. Try it in risottos, pasta dishes, or even omelettes for an unexpected culinary experience.
• Unique Condiment: Mix the rub with olive oil to create a unique condiment to use as a dip for bread or as a dressing for salads. This will bring an exotic note to your everyday meals.

Store the Mekong Rub Seasoning in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight. Exposure to heat and humidity can alter the flavour and texture of the blend. Avoid storing the rub near heat sources such as the stove, oven, or appliances. High temperatures can compromise the freshness of the blend.

The Mekong Rub is packaged in a food-certified tube. Transfer the contents of the sachet into the cardboard cylinder for additional protection against light and humidity. Make sure to securely close the tube after each use. When using the blend, use clean, dry spoons to avoid contamination and prevent introducing moisture into the container.

By following these storage tips, you can enjoy the full benefits of the Mekong Rub for a longer period while preserving its unique aromas and flavours.

Let’s travel back through the centuries to explore the fascinating history of rubs, these spice blends that have evolved over the ages. Originating in antiquity, rubs have transformed over generations into an essential culinary method in the United States. More than just a culinary tradition, the rub embodies a way of life, a gastronomic philosophy deeply rooted in American culture.

Initially created as a dry spice blend intended to season meat before cooking, the rub in the United States has become emblematic of barbecue competitions, family gatherings, and summer festivities. Each region of the country has developed its own variations of rub, reflecting the diversity of local flavours and preferences.

This aromatic blend often consists of various spices such as pepper, paprika, salt, sugar, garlic, and other secret ingredients passed down through generations. The rub is generously applied to the meat, creating a savoury and fragrant crust during cooking.

Today, the rub is celebrated throughout the country as a key element of American cuisine. It is used not only for barbecuing but also to season a variety of dishes, from grilled meats to roasted vegetables. The rub embodies the spirit of American cooking, boldly combining flavours to create memorable culinary experiences. La Plantation’s Mekong Rubis part of this tradition, offering a unique interpretation of this emblematic culinary practice, while adding an exotic touch inspired by our distant lands of Kampot.