Barbecue chef's spice concoction (3)

I believe the answer is:

rub

(Other definitions for rub that I've seen before include "Apply friction to - difficulty" , "Ay, there's the - (Hamlet)" , "Massage or buff" , "Ointment; copy (a brass)" , "Ointment; chief difficulty" .)

I've seen this clue in the LA Times.

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