John Willingham is the most acclaimed Bar-B-Q chef in the world. A Memphis native, he has created his own line of sauces, rubs, and marinades and invented the famous W'ham Turbo Cooker.

Ingredients:

• 4 Tablespoons cumin

• 4 Tablespoons  thyme

• 4 Tablespoons  garlic powder

• 4 Tablespoons  black pepper, freshly ground

• 2 Tablespoons  cayenne pepper

• 2 Tablespoons  salt

• 2 Tablespoons  curry powder

• 1 Tablespoon  onion powder

• 1 Tablespoon  MSG or other flavor enhancer (optional)

Preparation:

1. In a small bowl or glass jar with a lid, combine all the ingredients. Stir or shake to mix. Use immediately or store in a cool, dark place for several months.

2. This rub is pretty strong and so I do not recommend it for thin cuts (like ribs). It works great on heavier cuts of meat such as beef round, prime rib, pork shoulders, and even the whole hog. With this recipe, you have enough for five shoulders or four hams.  

3. It is best if you let the meat marinate, loosely covered, in the refrigerator for a good twenty-four to forty-eight hours after being rubbed.