Get ready to impress your friends with these fall-off-the-bone ribs! Cooked on the grill, they get a tasty smoky flavor that’s hard to resist. Add your favorite BBQ sauce for a sweet touch!
I can’t help but smile when these ribs are on the menu—they’re perfect for a backyard party! I like to serve them with coleslaw and corn on the cob. What’s your favorite side?
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Ribs: Baby back ribs are tender and cook faster, while spare ribs are meatier with more flavor. You could also use beef ribs if you prefer a different taste and texture.
Spices: Smoked paprika gives a nice depth of flavor. If you don’t have it, regular paprika or even chili powder can add a similar taste. You can skip the cayenne if you want milder ribs!
Barbecue Sauce: Use your favorite store-bought barbecue sauce for convenience. For a homemade version, mix ketchup with vinegar and brown sugar for a simple yet delicious option.
Wood Chips: Hickory is popular for its strong, smoky flavor, but applewood gives a milder and sweeter smoke. If you can’t find wood chips, using a charcoal grill alone works well, too.
How Do I Remove the Membrane from Ribs?
Removing the membrane is crucial for tender ribs and better flavor absorption. Grip the membrane at one end with a paper towel for better traction. Carefully pull it off; it should come away in one piece. If it tears, just keep going until it’s all off!
Why is the Spice Rub Important?
The spice rub not only flavors the ribs but also forms a tasty crust while grilling. Make sure to rub it in well; don’t be shy! A good amount ensures every bite is packed with flavor. Cover both sides evenly.
How to Maintain the Right Grill Temperature?
Keeping a steady grill temperature of 225-250°F can be tricky, but here are some tips:
- Use a grill thermometer to check the temperature. A reliable instant-read thermometer can help.
- For charcoal, add coals periodically to maintain heat.
- For gas, adjust the burners as needed to keep the heat consistent.
How Do I Know When Ribs Are Done?
Patience is key! Ribs are perfectly done when they reach 190°F. You can also check for tenderness. When the meat pulls back from the bones and offers little resistance, they’re ready for some resting time before serving!
Fall Off The Bone Ribs On The Grill
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Ribs:
- 2 racks of pork ribs (baby back or spare ribs)
For the Rub:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
- 1 tablespoon garlic powder
- 1 tablespoon onion powder
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon kosher salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
For Basting:
- 1 cup barbecue sauce (your favorite brand or homemade)
- Wood chips (for smoking, e.g., hickory or applewood)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 15 minutes to prepare and about 2.5 to 3 hours to grill. So overall, you’re looking at around 3 hours for a delicious meal that will be well worth the wait!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Ribs:
Start by removing the membrane from the back of the ribs. This will help the seasoning soak in and make the meat more tender. After that, pat the ribs dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture.
2. Make the Rub:
In a small bowl, mix together the smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, brown sugar, kosher salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper if you like a bit of heat. Stir well until all the spices are combined.
3. Season the Ribs:
Pour the olive oil over the ribs, making sure to cover both sides. Then, take your spice rub and spread it all over the ribs generously. Ensure every part is coated for the best flavor!
4. Preheat the Grill:
Time to preheat! If you’re using a charcoal grill, light the coals and push them to one side. For a gas grill, turn on half of the burners. You want to set up for indirect heat, as this will cook the ribs gently.
5. Add Wood Chips:
If you want to give your ribs that smoky flavor, soak the wood chips in water for about 30 minutes. After soaking, sprinkle them over the hot coals or place them in a smoker box if you’re using a gas grill. This will create delicious smoky goodness!
6. Grill the Ribs:
Now, place the seasoned ribs on the grill away from direct heat. Close the lid and let them cook for about 2.5 to 3 hours. Try to maintain a temperature around 225-250°F (107-121°C) for the best results.
7. Baste with Sauce:
In the last 30 minutes of cooking, coat the ribs with your favorite barbecue sauce every 10 minutes. This will help to build a nice, sticky glaze on the ribs that is absolutely delicious!
8. Check for Doneness:
After a few hours, it’s time to check if your ribs are ready. You’ll want them to reach an internal temperature of at least 190°F (88°C). They should be so tender that the meat pulls away from the bone easily.
9. Rest the Ribs:
Once the ribs are cooked to perfection, take them off the grill and let them rest for about 10-15 minutes. This is important as it keeps the juices in, making each bite juicy and tender!
10. Serve:
Finally, slice the ribs between the bones and serve them up with extra barbecue sauce on the side if you’d like. Enjoy your fall-off-the-bone ribs! They are sure to be a hit at any gathering!
Can I Use Different Types of Ribs?
Absolutely! You can use spare ribs, St. Louis-style ribs, or baby back ribs in this recipe. Just note that cooking times may vary slightly based on the size and thickness of the ribs. Spare ribs might take a bit longer, while baby backs will cook slightly faster!
What Should I Do If I Don’t Have Barbecue Sauce?
No worries! If you’re out of barbecue sauce, you can make a quick alternative by mixing equal parts ketchup and apple cider vinegar, adding some honey or brown sugar for sweetness, and a splash of Worcestershire sauce for depth. Season to taste with garlic powder and smoked paprika!
How to Store Leftover Ribs?
To store leftovers, allow the ribs to cool completely, then wrap them tightly in aluminum foil or place them in an airtight container. They can be refrigerated for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 3 months. If freezing, it’s best to slice them first for easier reheating!
Can I Cook These Ribs in the Oven Instead?
Yes, you can cook the ribs in the oven! Preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C) and wrap the ribs in foil. Bake for about 2.5 to 3 hours until tender. In the last 30 minutes, remove the foil and brush on the barbecue sauce before broiling for a few minutes to caramelize.
