How To Cook St Louis Style Ribs: A Finger-Lickin’ Good Recipe
Welcome to our mouth-watering guide on how to cook St Louis Style Ribs like a true pitmaster. Get ready for a flavorful feast that will have your taste buds dancing with delight. This classic barbecue dish is beloved for its tender meat and smoky, caramelized flavor. So, roll up your sleeves and let’s dive into the world of St Louis Style Ribs!
Ingredients:
- 2 racks of St Louis Style Ribs
- 1/4 cup of brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons of paprika
- 1 tablespoon of chili powder
- 1 tablespoon of garlic powder
- 1 tablespoon of onion powder
- 1 teaspoon of cayenne pepper (adjust to your spice preference)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Barbecue sauce of your choice
Preparation:
- Preheat your grill to 225°F (107°C) for low and slow cooking.
- Trim any excess fat and remove the membrane from the back of the ribs to ensure optimal tenderness and flavor.
- In a bowl, combine the brown sugar, paprika, chili powder, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper. This flavorful rub will enhance the taste of the ribs.
- Generously coat both sides of the ribs with the spice rub, massaging it into the meat to ensure even distribution. Let the ribs rest for about 15 minutes to allow the flavors to penetrate.
- Place the ribs bone side down on the grill grates away from direct heat. You can add some wood chips like hickory or apple for a smoky flavor. Close the lid and let the ribs cook slowly for about 3-4 hours. This low and slow method will result in fall-off-the-bone goodness.
- During the last 30 minutes of cooking, glaze the ribs with your favorite barbecue sauce, flipping them occasionally to prevent burning. The sauce will caramelize and create a delicious sticky coating.
- Remove the ribs from the grill and let them rest for a few minutes before slicing.
- Cut between the bones and serve the St Louis Style Ribs with additional barbecue sauce on the side.
Now that you have mastered the art of cooking St Louis Style Ribs, it’s time to gather your friends and family for a barbecue extravaganza. These succulent ribs will be the star of the show, leaving everyone coming back for seconds. So fire up that grill, embrace the essence of slow cooking, and savor every flavorful bite of these finger-lickin’ good ribs!
Share your tips and techniques for making the perfect St Louis Style Ribs in the Cooking Techniques forum.
FAQ:
How do I prepare St Louis style ribs before cooking?
Before cooking St Louis style ribs, you’ll need to prepare them by removing the membrane on the back of the ribs. This can be done by gently sliding a butter knife under the membrane and then using a paper towel to grip and pull it off. Trimming any excess fat is also recommended for a better texture and taste.
What is the recommended cooking method for St Louis style ribs?
The recommended cooking method for St Louis style ribs is low and slow. This means that you should cook them at a low temperature, around 225-250°F (107-121°C), for a long period of time. This can be done in a smoker, on a grill, or in the oven.
Should I use a dry rub for St Louis style ribs?
Using a dry rub is highly recommended for St Louis style ribs. This helps to enhance the flavor and create a delicious crust on the ribs. There are many different dry rub recipes available, but a classic combination includes brown sugar, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
How long should I cook St Louis style ribs?
Cooking times for St Louis style ribs can vary depending on the cooking method and the size of the ribs. However, as a general guideline, you can expect to cook them for approximately 4-6 hours. It’s important to use a meat thermometer to ensure that the internal temperature reaches around 195-203°F (90-95°C) for tender and juicy ribs.
Should I wrap the St Louis style ribs during cooking?
Wrapping the St Louis style ribs during cooking is a popular technique known as the “Texas Crutch.” This involves wrapping the ribs tightly in aluminum foil or butcher paper after a few hours of cooking. It helps to tenderize the meat and speed up the cooking process. However, it’s also common to cook the ribs unwrapped for the entire cooking time if you prefer a crispy exterior.
What is the best sauce to use for St Louis style ribs?
The best sauce to use for St Louis style ribs ultimately comes down to personal preference. Some popular options include barbecue sauce, honey glaze, or a tangy vinegar-based sauce. You can choose to slather the sauce on during the last hour of cooking or serve it on the side for dipping.
How do I know when St Louis style ribs are done cooking?
You can determine if St Louis style ribs are done cooking by using a meat thermometer. Insert the thermometer into the thickest part of the meat, making sure not to touch the bone. When the internal temperature reaches around 195-203°F (90-95°C), the ribs are usually tender and ready to be served. Additionally, the meat should pull away easily from the bone when gently twisted.
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