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Grilling ribs is quite different from cooking steak or hamburgers.
Simply tossing them on a hot grill or coals will result in tough and dry ribs – not something anyone enjoys.
True BBQ aficionados know that authentic spare ribs or baby back ribs require slow-smoking for about 4 ½ hours over charcoal and wood for that succulent and smoky flavor.
But don’t let the thought of grilling ribs intimidate you!
With the right technique, you can easily grill up a perfect rack every time and become the envy of your neighborhood with your mouthwatering results.
So, let’s dive into this delicious grilled pork ribs recipe and learn the proven technique to achieve smoking and succulent ribs that will have your taste buds singing!
Ingredients
- Pork ribs (baby back or spare ribs)
- Dry rub or marinade of your choice
- BBQ sauce (optional)
Tools
- Charcoal or gas grill
- Charcoal or gas
- Grill tongs or spatula
- Meat thermometer
Instructions
- Prepare the ribs. If using baby back ribs, remove the thin membrane on the back of the ribs by using a butter knife to lift the edge and then gripping it with a paper towel to pull it off. For spare ribs, trim any excess fat from the ribs, leaving a thin layer for flavor.
- Apply dry rub or marinade. Season the ribs with your favorite dry rub or marinade. Dry rubs are a mixture of spices that can add flavor and create a crust on the ribs when grilled. Marinades are liquid-based and can add flavor and help tenderize the meat. Let the ribs sit with the dry rub or marinade for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to penetrate the meat.
- Prepare the grill. If using a charcoal grill, light the charcoal and let it burn until covered with white ash. If using a gas grill, preheat it to medium-high heat. Place a drip pan underneath the grates to catch any drippings.
- Set up the grill for indirect grilling. For charcoal grills, arrange the coals on one side of the grill, creating a hot zone and a cooler zone. For gas grills, turn off one burner and leave the others on, creating a hot zone and a cooler zone.
- Place the ribs on the grill. Place the ribs bone-side down on the cooler zone of the grill. Close the lid and let them cook slowly for 1-2 hours, depending on the thickness of the ribs, until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) using a meat thermometer inserted into the thickest part of the meat, avoiding contact with the bone. Flip the ribs occasionally to ensure even cooking.
- Optional. Apply BBQ sauce. If desired, brush BBQ sauce onto the ribs during the last 10 minutes of cooking. Be careful not to apply the sauce too early, as it can burn and char the ribs.
- Rest and serve. Once the ribs are cooked to your desired level of tenderness, remove them from the grill and let them rest for a few minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute and the meat to become more tender. Cut the ribs into portions and serve with your favorite sides, such as coleslaw, baked beans, or cornbread.
Indulge in the mouthwatering goodness of perfectly grilled pork ribs!
Whether you prefer the smoky flavors of slow-smoked ribs or the charred goodness of grilled ribs, these tender and juicy cuts of pork are sure to impress your taste buds.
This home recipe for grilling pork ribs is a favorite among BBQ enthusiasts, and for good reason.
It’s a proven technique that yields excellent flavor and results in ribs that are sure to be a hit at your next backyard BBQ.
So fire up the grill, gather your friends and family, and get ready to savor the irresistible taste of perfectly grilled pork ribs!