Crackin’ Kiwi: The All-Purpose Kiwi Rub That Does It All

Meet Crackin’ Kiwi—Spicecraft’s signature all-purpose seasoning that turns everyday meals into flavour explosions! Originally created as the ultimate pork rub, this punchy blend of smoked paprika, horopito, and mustard quickly became a go-to for chicken, veggies, dips, popcorn—even wedges and mac ‘n’ cheese.

Whether you're smoking ribs or making a midnight toastie, Crackin’ Kiwi delivers big flavour in one easy shake. It's not just the best pork rub… it’s the best everything rub.

From Kiwi Kitchen to Culinary Staple

Born in real New Zealand kitchens, Crackin’ Kiwi started as a dry rub for pork ribs. But once people tried it on chicken, wedges, popcorn—even mixed into dips—it became clear: this wasn’t just a pork rub. It was an all-rounder.

Inspired by:

• All-purpose seasoning staples from classic home kitchens

• Native horopito, giving a warm, peppery Kiwi twist

• Global faves like Old Bay, American BBQ rubs, and chip shop classics

Unlike one-note rubs, Crackin’ Kiwi adapts to nearly any dish. Just shake, cook, and enjoy the flavour fireworks.

Ingredients & Flavour Profile

This is flavour-layered, not overpowering. With over 20 quality ingredients, it delivers boldness, depth, and balance.

🌶️ What’s inside:

• Smoked paprika, garlic, and onion – deep, savoury smokiness

• Horopito, pepper, and mild chilli – gentle warmth with a Kiwi twist

• Mustard, thyme, oregano – aromatic and complex

• Brown sugar and sea salt – a sweet/salty backbone

👅 The taste test:

Smoky BBQ meets herbaceous depth, with a lingering peppery hum.

✔️ More complex than chicken salt
✔️ Less sweet than American BBQ rubs
✔️ Perfectly balanced for everyday meals

Traditional & Creative Uses

Crackin’ Kiwi is a true multi-tasker—from slow-cooked meats to 5-minute snacks.

🔥 Classic Uses:

• Pork ribs – dry rub or mixed into your BBQ sauce

• Smoked or roasted chicken – rub under the skin

• Roast potatoes, kūmara, or wedges – total game changer

🌟 Creative Kiwi Twists:

• Big Mac Tacos (yep, it’s a thing—see recipe below)

• Mix with sour cream for a quick dip

• Sprinkle on avocado toast

• Use as a popcorn topper with melted butter

💬 “I use it in my grilled cheese—next level!” – Hannah, Christchurch

Cooking Tips & Techniques

✅ For meats: Apply 1 hour before cooking, or leave overnight for even more flavour
✅ As a marinade: Mix with oil or yoghurt for tenderising
✅ Best methods: Smoke it, roast it, grill it—or stir into dips and sauces raw

💡 Pro Tip: Use Crackin’ Kiwi in your stuffing mix, burger patties, or even pasta bakes for a flavour boost without effort.

Why Crackin’ Kiwi is Special

At Spicecraft, we don’t do boring blends. Here’s what sets Crackin’ Kiwi apart:

🇳🇿 Made in New Zealand, featuring native horopito
🔥 Family-friendly heat – flavour first, not fire
🌱 No fillers or MSG – just real, honest ingredients

💬 “The only seasoning I’ve repurchased five times!” – Real customer

Recipe Highlight: Crackin’ Kiwi Chicken & Veg Sausage Rolls

These savoury, veggie-boosted rolls are a new-school spin on a Kiwi classic—and a total lunchbox winner.

Quick Summary:

• Mix chicken mince, grated carrot, spinach, egg, breadcrumbs, and a generous shake of Crackin’ Kiwi Rub

• Roll in puff pastry, seal, brush with milk

• Sprinkle with No Bagel No Bagel for crunch

• Bake until golden and serve!

👉 Get the full recipe here

One Shake, Endless Possibilities

Crackin’ Kiwi isn’t just a rub—it’s your shortcut to next-level flavour. Whether it’s slow-cooked pork, creamy dips, or crispy wedges, this all-purpose Kiwi blend brings depth, balance, and smoky magic to everything it touches.

👉 Grab a jar today and discover why it’s earned cult-favourite status across Aotearoa.