How To Cook Ribs In The Oven Then Grill

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How To Cook Ribs In The Oven Then Grill

Master the Art of Cooking Ribs: Oven to Grill

If you’re a fan of tender and juicy ribs with that irresistible smoky flavor, then you’ve come to the right place. Cooking ribs in the oven and then finishing them off on the grill is a winning technique that will leave your taste buds wanting more. In this guide, we’ll show you the step-by-step process of how to achieve perfectly cooked ribs that will have your friends and family raving.

Gather Your Ingredients

Before we dive into the cooking process, let’s assemble all the necessary ingredients to make these mouthwatering oven-to-grill ribs:

  • Full rack of ribs (baby back or spare ribs)
  • Dry rub of your choice (preferably a combination of spices like paprika, garlic powder, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper)
  • Barbecue sauce (homemade or store-bought)

Prep Your Ribs

Start by preheating your oven to 275°F (135°C). Now, it’s time to prepare your ribs for the optimal flavor and tenderness:

  1. Remove the membrane from the back of the ribs. This will help the seasonings penetrate the meat.
  2. Apply the dry rub generously on both sides of the ribs, pressing it into the meat to ensure it sticks.
  3. Double-wrap the ribs in aluminum foil, creating a tight seal. This will help them retain moisture and cook evenly.

Cooking in the Oven

Place the foil-wrapped ribs on a baking sheet and transfer them to the preheated oven. Slow cooking is the key to achieving that fall-off-the-bone texture, so be patient:

  • Cook baby back ribs for 2.5 to 3 hours, or spare ribs for 3.5 to 4 hours. Adjust the cooking time based on the thickness of your ribs.
  • After the initial cooking time, carefully unwrap the foil and discard any accumulated juices.
  • Brush your favorite barbecue sauce generously over the ribs, coating them completely.

The Final Touch: Grilling

Now, it’s time to infuse your ribs with that irresistible smoky flavor by finishing them off on the grill:

  • Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
  • Place the sauced ribs directly on the grill grates, bone-side down, and cook for approximately 5-7 minutes per side.
  • Keep an eye on the ribs and brush additional barbecue sauce on them for that caramelized glaze.
  • Once they are nicely charred and heated through, remove the ribs from the grill and let them rest for a few minutes before slicing.

Serve and Enjoy!

Now comes the best part – savoring your perfectly cooked ribs. Serve them up with your favorite sides like coleslaw, cornbread, or grilled vegetables, and get ready for a flavor sensation like no other. Whether you’re hosting a backyard barbecue or simply craving a delicious meal, cooking ribs in the oven and then finishing them on the grill is a foolproof method to take your culinary skills to the next level.

Experiment and Customize

Feel free to play around with different dry rubs, barbecue sauces, and cooking times to suit your personal taste preferences. The beauty of cooking ribs is that it allows for endless experimentation, so don’t be afraid to get creative in the kitchen!

Now you have the knowledge and skills to cook ribs in the oven then grill – a technique that will surely impress your guests and make you a rib aficionado. Master this art, and you’ll be the go-to pitmaster in no time!

Want to share your tips and tricks for cooking ribs in the oven and then finishing them on the grill? Join the discussion in the Cooking Techniques forum section and let us know how you achieve fall-off-the-bone perfection with your ribs!
FAQ:
Can I cook ribs in the oven first and then finish them on the grill?
Absolutely! Cooking ribs in the oven before finishing them on the grill is a great way to achieve tender and flavorful results. This method allows the ribs to cook low and slow in the oven, ensuring they are cooked through and tender. Finishing them on the grill adds a smoky and charred flavor that enhances the overall taste.
What is the advantage of cooking ribs in the oven then finishing on the grill?
The advantage of this two-step cooking process is that the oven helps to tenderize the ribs and cook them evenly. The low and slow cooking in the oven allows the ribs to become tender and juicy, while the final grilling step adds a delicious smoky flavor and develops a caramelized crust on the surface of the meat.
How do I prepare the ribs for cooking?
Start by removing the membrane from the bone side of the ribs. This can be done by gently loosening a corner with a knife or your fingers and then using a paper towel to grip and peel off the membrane. Next, apply a dry rub or marinade to add flavor to the ribs. Allow them to marinate in the refrigerator for a few hours or overnight before cooking.
What is the recommended cooking temperature and time in the oven?
Preheat your oven to 275°F (135°C). Place the seasoned ribs on a baking sheet and cover tightly with aluminum foil. Cook for approximately 2 to 3 hours, or until the meat is tender and easily pulls away from the bone. Cooking times may vary depending on the thickness of the ribs, so it’s always a good idea to use a meat thermometer to ensure they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
How do I finish the ribs on the grill after cooking in the oven?
Once the ribs are done in the oven, carefully transfer them to a preheated grill. Set the grill to medium-high heat. Brush the ribs with your favorite barbecue sauce and grill for about 5-7 minutes per side, or until a nice charred crust forms. Be sure to keep a close eye on them to prevent burning, as the sugars in the sauce can cause the ribs to char quickly.
Can I add wood chips or chunks to the grill for extra smoky flavor?
Absolutely! Adding wood chips or chunks to your grill while finishing the ribs will enhance the smoky flavor. Soak the wood chips or chunks in water for about 30 minutes before grilling. Once they are soaked, drain the excess water and place them directly on the charcoal or in a smoker box if using a gas grill. The wood chips will release aromatic smoke, infusing the ribs with a delicious smoky taste.
Can I glaze the ribs with sauce while grilling?
Yes, you can glaze the ribs with sauce while grilling to add a tasty and sticky finish. Brush the ribs with the sauce of your choice during the final minutes of grilling, allowing it to caramelize and create a flavorful glaze. Be careful not to apply the sauce too early in the grilling process, as the sugars in the sauce can easily burn and result in a bitter taste.

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