How To Cook Spare Ribs On BBQ

Master the Art of Cooking Delicious Spare Ribs on the BBQ

There’s nothing quite like sinking your teeth into tender, juicy spare ribs fresh off the barbecue. The combination of smoky flavors and melt-in-your-mouth meat is a culinary delight that never fails to impress. If you’re ready to take your grilling game to the next level, we’ve got you covered. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the steps to cook mouthwatering spare ribs on the BBQ that will leave your guests begging for more.

Choose the Perfect Spare Ribs

Before diving into the cooking process, it’s essential to select the right spare ribs. Look for ribs with a good amount of meat on them, as this will ensure a juicy and flavorful result. St. Louis-style spare ribs, which are trimmed to remove the breastbone and cartilage, are a popular choice due to their excellent marbling and tenderness.

Prepare the Ribs

Proper preparation is key to achieving succulent spare ribs. Start by removing the membrane on the bone side of the ribs. Using a butter knife, gently lift and loosen the membrane at one end, then grab it with a paper towel and peel it off completely. This step allows the flavors to penetrate the meat more effectively while also improving the overall tenderness.

Seasoning is Everything

Now it’s time to infuse your spare ribs with mouthwatering flavors. Create your own signature rub using a combination of spices such as smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, brown sugar, salt, and pepper. Apply the rub generously on both sides of the ribs, ensuring an even coating. Let the seasoned ribs sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.

Preheat the BBQ

While the ribs rest, fire up your BBQ. Preheat it to a temperature of around 225-250°F (107-121°C). For a more intense smoky flavor, add wood chips or chunks to the charcoal or smoker box of your BBQ. Hickory, mesquite, or applewood are popular choices that pair well with spare ribs.

Low and Slow for Tenderness

The secret to achieving fall-off-the-bone ribs is to cook them low and slow. Place the seasoned spare ribs on the grill grates bone side down and close the lid. Maintain a consistent temperature by adjusting the air vents or burner knobs as needed. Allow the ribs to smoke and cook for approximately 4-5 hours or until the meat is tender and has pulled back from the bones.

Keep it Moist

To ensure your spare ribs stay moist throughout the cooking process, you can spritz them with a liquid of your choice every hour. Apple juice, cider vinegar, or even a mix of water and Worcestershire sauce work well to add extra moisture and enhance the flavors.

Glaze for the Finishing Touch

For that mouthwatering sticky glaze, brush your favorite barbecue sauce onto the ribs during the last 30 minutes of cooking. Be generous with the sauce, coating both sides and allowing it to caramelize over the heat. This step adds a delicious finishing touch to your spare ribs and creates a beautiful glaze.

Rest and Serve

Once your spare ribs have reached perfection, it’s crucial to let them rest before serving. Remove them from the BBQ and tent them with aluminum foil for about 10-15 minutes. This resting period allows the meat to relax, retain its juices, and ensures a more tender and flavorful eating experience.

Finally, it’s time to dig in! Slice the spare ribs between the bones and serve them up with your favorite side dishes. Coleslaw, cornbread, or grilled vegetables are excellent choices that complement the richness of the ribs.

Now that you have the know-how, go forth and impress your friends and family with your mastery of cooking spare ribs on the BBQ. With a little patience, practice, and a whole lot of flavor, you’ll become a barbecue pro in no time. Happy grilling!

Share your tips and tricks for grilling spare ribs to perfection in the Cooking Techniques forum.

FAQ:

What kind of ribs should I use for BBQ?

When it comes to cooking spare ribs on the BBQ, it is best to use pork spare ribs. They have a higher fat content which helps to keep the meat moist and tender during the long cooking process.

Should I remove the membrane from the ribs before cooking?

Yes, it is recommended to remove the membrane from the back of the ribs before cooking. This thin membrane can prevent flavors and seasonings from penetrating the meat and can make the ribs less tender. Simply use a knife or your fingers to loosen it and then pull it off.

Do I need to marinate the ribs before cooking them on the BBQ?

While it is not necessary to marinate the ribs, it can add extra flavor and tenderness. If you choose to marinate, it is recommended to do so for at least a few hours or overnight in the refrigerator. You can use a store-bought marinade or create your own using a combination of spices, herbs, and sauces.

What is the best method for cooking spare ribs on the BBQ?

The best method for cooking spare ribs on the BBQ is through indirect heat grilling. This involves setting up the grill with the heat source on one side and placing the ribs on the opposite side. This allows for slow and even cooking, resulting in tender and juicy ribs.

What temperature should I cook the ribs at?

The ideal temperature for cooking spare ribs on the BBQ is around 225-250°F (107-121°C). This low and slow cooking method ensures that the meat becomes tender and flavorful. Use a meat thermometer to monitor the temperature and adjust the grill vents as needed to maintain a steady heat.

How long does it take to cook spare ribs on the BBQ?

The cooking time can vary depending on the size of the ribs and the consistency of your BBQ temperature. On average, spare ribs take around 4-6 hours to cook on the BBQ. However, it is important to focus on the internal temperature (around 190°F or 88°C) and the tenderness of the meat rather than relying solely on time.

When should I apply the BBQ sauce to the ribs?

It is best to apply the BBQ sauce during the last 30 minutes of cooking. This allows the sauce to caramelize and create a delicious glaze on the ribs. Applying the sauce too early may cause it to burn and char. Brush the sauce on both sides of the ribs and continue cooking until they reach the desired tenderness.

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