How To Cook Beef Ribs On Charcoal Grill

The Ultimate Guide to Cooking Beef Ribs on a Charcoal Grill

There’s nothing quite like the mouthwatering flavor and fall-off-the-bone tenderness of beef ribs cooked on a charcoal grill. Whether you’re a grilling aficionado or a newbie, mastering the art of cooking beef ribs on a charcoal grill can elevate your barbecue game to a whole new level. Follow these simple steps to create a finger-lickin’ meal that will impress your friends and family.

What You’ll Need

• Beef ribs
• Charcoal briquettes
• Chimney starter
• Wood chips (optional, for added smoky flavor)
• Aluminum foil
• Meat thermometer
• Grill tongs
• Barbecue sauce (optional)

Step 1: Prepare the Grill

Start by setting up your charcoal grill for indirect heat. This means placing the charcoal briquettes on one side of the grill and leaving the other side empty. If you prefer a smoky flavor, soak some wood chips in water for about 30 minutes and place them on top of the charcoal.

Step 2: Prepare the Ribs

Carefully remove the membrane from the back of the ribs. This will help the flavors penetrate the meat evenly and ensure a more tender result. Rub the ribs generously with your favorite seasoning or a homemade dry rub, making sure to cover all sides.

Step 3: Fire up the Grill

Light the charcoal using a chimney starter. Once the charcoal is covered with a layer of gray ash, carefully pour it onto the side of the grill opposite the empty space. Close the lid and allow the grill to preheat for about 10-15 minutes.

Step 4: Start Cooking

Place the ribs bone-side down on the side of the grill without the charcoal. This will ensure even cooking and prevent the ribs from becoming overly charred. Close the lid and let the ribs cook for about 2 to 2.5 hours, maintaining a consistent temperature of around 225-250°F (107-121°C).

Step 5: Add Smoke (Optional)

If you want to infuse your beef ribs with a smoky flavor, now’s the time to add soaked wood chips. Sprinkle them over the hot charcoal, close the lid, and let the smoke work its magic for the last hour of cooking.

Step 6: Check for Doneness

Using a meat thermometer, check the internal temperature of the ribs. You’re looking for a reading of around 195-203°F (90-95°C) for tender and juicy beef ribs. Insert the thermometer between the bones, avoiding contact with the grill or bone. If the temperature hasn’t reached the desired range, continue cooking for a bit longer.

Step 7: Rest and Serve

Once the beef ribs reach the ideal internal temperature, carefully remove them from the grill and wrap them loosely in aluminum foil. Allow them to rest for about 10-15 minutes. This resting period allows the meat to reabsorb its juices and become even more tender. When ready to serve, brush the ribs with your favorite barbecue sauce to add an extra layer of flavor.

Conclusion

Cooking beef ribs on a charcoal grill is a true labor of love, but the end result is well worth the effort. Follow these steps, embrace your inner grill master, and get ready to enjoy tender and flavorful beef ribs that will have your taste buds singing. So fire up that charcoal grill, invite your loved ones over, and create cherished memories while savoring the perfectly cooked beef ribs.