The Easiest Way To Make Great BBQ Ribs

Summer is upon us, which means it's time to fire up the grill and get cooking! One staple of any backyard BBQ is a delicious rack of ribs. Unfortunately, ribs can be tricky to cook just right. Luckily, we've got you covered with the easiest way to make great BBQ ribs. In this article, we'll cover everything from choosing the right type of ribs to monitoring the temperature while cooking. So let's get started!

Choosing the Right Type of Ribs

Before you can start cooking, you need to choose the right type of ribs. There are three main types to choose from: baby back ribs, spare ribs, and St. Louis style ribs.

Baby Back Ribs

Baby back ribs are small, tender, and cook relatively quickly. They're a great option if you're short on time or want something that's easy to eat. These ribs come from the top of the rib cage, between the spine and the spare ribs. They are called "baby" because they are shorter than spare ribs. Baby back ribs are also leaner and more tender than spare ribs, making them a popular choice for many people.

When selecting baby back ribs, look for ones that are pink in color and have a nice layer of meat on the bone. Avoid ribs that are discolored or have a strong odor, as this can indicate spoilage.

Spare Ribs

Spare ribs are larger and meatier than baby back ribs. They take longer to cook but have more flavor. These ribs come from the lower portion of the pig's rib cage, and they contain more bone than meat. Spare ribs are also fattier than baby back ribs, which can make them more flavorful but also more challenging to cook.

When selecting spare ribs, look for ones that have a good meat-to-bone ratio and a nice layer of fat. The meat should be pink and firm to the touch, and the bones should not be discolored or have any foul odors.

St. Louis Style Ribs

St. Louis style ribs are a type of spare rib that has been trimmed to remove the breastbone, cartilage, and flap meat. They cook faster than traditional spare ribs and have a higher meat-to-bone ratio. These ribs are meatier and more tender than spare ribs, making them a popular choice for many people.

When selecting St. Louis style ribs, look for ones that have been trimmed evenly and have a good meat-to-bone ratio. The meat should be pink and firm to the touch, and the bones should not be discolored or have any foul odors.

Regardless of which type of ribs you choose, make sure to season them well and cook them low and slow for the best results. Happy grilling!

Preparing Your Ribs for the BBQ

Once you've chosen your ribs, it's time to prepare them for the BBQ. There are a few steps you'll need to take before you start cooking.

Removing the Membrane

The first step is to remove the membrane from the back of the ribs. This is an important step as it can prevent your ribs from becoming tender. The membrane is a tough layer of connective tissue that can be difficult to chew through. Removing it will allow your seasoning and smoke to penetrate the meat more effectively.

To remove the membrane, you can use a sharp knife and a paper towel. Simply slide the knife under the membrane and use the paper towel to grip it as you pull it off. Some people prefer to use a pair of pliers to grip the membrane and pull it off in one go.

Seasoning the Ribs

Now that you've removed the membrane, it's time to season your ribs. A good BBQ rub can make all the difference when it comes to flavor. There are many pre-made rubs available, or you can make your own using a combination of spices such as paprika, brown sugar, garlic powder, and cumin.

Be sure to coat both sides of the ribs evenly and massage the rub into the meat. This will help the seasoning to stick to the meat and create a flavorful crust when cooked.

Marinating for Maximum Flavor

If you have the time, letting your ribs marinate in the rub overnight can help infuse even more flavor. Simply wrap the seasoned ribs in plastic wrap and refrigerate overnight. This will allow the seasoning to penetrate the meat and create a more complex flavor profile.

When you're ready to cook your ribs, be sure to let them come to room temperature before placing them on the grill. This will help them to cook more evenly and prevent the meat from becoming tough.

With these simple steps, you'll be well on your way to creating delicious, fall-off-the-bone ribs that are sure to impress your guests.

Setting Up Your Grill for Indirect Cooking

Now that your ribs are prepped and ready to go, it's time to set up your grill for indirect cooking. This means that your ribs will be cooked next to, and not directly over, the heat source. Indirect cooking is a great way to cook larger cuts of meat, like ribs, because it allows the meat to cook slowly and evenly, resulting in a tender and juicy final product.

Before you start setting up your grill, make sure to clean the grates and remove any leftover debris from previous grilling sessions. This will ensure that your ribs don't stick to the grill and that they cook evenly.

Charcoal Grill Setup

If you're using a charcoal grill, there are a few steps you'll need to follow to set it up for indirect cooking. First, light your charcoal and let it burn until it's covered in white ash. Then, using tongs, arrange the coals on one side of the grill. This will create a hot zone and a cooler zone on the grill. Place a drip pan filled with water on the cooler side of the grill. The water will help create steam and keep the ribs moist while they cook. If you want to add some smoky flavor to your ribs, you can also add wood chips to the hot coals. Simply soak the wood chips in water for 30 minutes before adding them to the grill.

Gas Grill Setup

If you're using a gas grill, the setup process is a bit different than with a charcoal grill. Start by preheating your grill on high for 10-15 minutes. Then, turn off one side of the burners and place a drip pan filled with water on the cool side of the grill. This will create a hot zone and a cooler zone on the grill. If your gas grill has a smoker box, add wood chips for additional flavor. Simply soak the wood chips in water for 30 minutes before adding them to the smoker box.

Electric Grill Setup

If you're using an electric grill, the setup process is similar to a gas grill. Set the temperature to the lowest setting and let the grill preheat for 10-15 minutes. Then, place a drip pan filled with water on one side of the grill. This will create a hot zone and a cooler zone on the grill. If you want to add some smoky flavor to your ribs, you can also add wood chips to the grill. Simply wrap the wood chips in foil and poke a few holes in the foil to allow the smoke to escape.

Once your grill is set up for indirect cooking, it's time to add your ribs to the cooler side of the grill. Place the ribs bone-side down on the grate, making sure they're not directly over the heat source. Close the lid of the grill and let the ribs cook for several hours, until they're tender and juicy. Remember to check the temperature of your grill periodically to make sure it stays at a consistent temperature.

Cooking Your Ribs to Perfection

Now it's time to cook your ribs! There are a few things you'll need to keep in mind while your ribs are cooking. Cooking ribs can be a daunting task, but with a few tips and tricks, you can be sure to have perfectly cooked ribs every time.

Choosing the Right Ribs

Before you start cooking your ribs, it's important to choose the right type of ribs. Baby back ribs are the most popular and widely available type of ribs. They are smaller and more tender than spare ribs, making them a great choice for those new to cooking ribs. Spare ribs, on the other hand, are larger and meatier, making them a great choice for those who prefer a heartier cut of meat.

Preparing Your Ribs

Before you start cooking your ribs, you'll need to prepare them. Start by removing the membrane from the back of the ribs. This will help the rub and sauce penetrate the meat and make it more tender. Next, apply your favorite rub to the ribs. Be sure to coat the ribs evenly on both sides.

Monitoring the Temperature

Use a meat thermometer to monitor the temperature of your ribs while they cook. This will help you ensure that your ribs are cooked to perfection. You want to cook your ribs to an internal temperature of 195-205°F for fall-off-the-bone tenderness. Be sure to insert the thermometer into the thickest part of the meat, being careful not to touch the bone.

Basting and Turning the Ribs

While your ribs are cooking, you'll want to baste them every 30 minutes or so with your favorite BBQ sauce. This will help keep the meat moist and add flavor. Be sure to turn the ribs over each time you baste them to ensure even cooking. You can also add wood chips to your grill or smoker to add a smoky flavor to your ribs.

Testing for Doneness

Once your ribs have reached the desired internal temperature, it's time to test for doneness. Use a pair of tongs to lift the ribs up and give them a gentle shake. If the meat starts to pull away from the bone, your ribs are done! You can also use a fork to gently pull the meat away from the bone. If it comes off easily, your ribs are ready to be served.

Now that you know how to cook your ribs to perfection, it's time to get started! Whether you're grilling, smoking, or baking your ribs, following these tips will help ensure that your ribs are tender, juicy, and full of flavor. So fire up the grill, grab your favorite BBQ sauce, and get ready to enjoy some delicious ribs!

Conclusion

With these easy tips and tricks, you'll be able to make the best BBQ ribs your friends and family have ever tasted. Whether you're using a charcoal grill, gas grill, or electric grill, you'll be able to cook ribs to perfection every time. So fire up the grill and get cooking!