Ingredients:
- 2 racks of baby back ribs
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons paprika
- 1 tablespoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon salt
- 1 tablespoon chili powder
- 1 tablespoon garlic powder
- 1 tablespoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
- BBQ sauce of your choice
Step 1: Prepare the Ribs
Start by removing the thin membrane from the back of the ribs. Use a knife to loosen the membrane at one end, then grab it with a paper towel and pull it off. This step allows the flavors to penetrate the meat better and ensures tender ribs.
Step 2: Create the Rub
In a bowl, combine the brown sugar, paprika, black pepper, salt, chili powder, garlic powder, onion powder, and cayenne pepper. Mix well to create your flavorful rib rub. The rub provides a delicious crust and enhances the taste of the meat.
Step 3: Apply the Rub
Generously sprinkle the rib rub on both sides of the racks, gently massaging it into the meat. Make sure every inch is coated for maximum flavor. Allow the ribs to sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes to let the flavors meld.
Step 4: Preheat and Prepare the Grill
Preheat your grill to about 225°F (107°C), setting it up for indirect heat. If using a charcoal grill, place the charcoal on one side and leave the other side empty. If using a gas grill, light only one side and leave the other off. This setup allows for low and slow cooking, creating tender ribs.
Step 5: Slow and Low Cooking
Place the seasoned ribs on the cooler side of the grill, making sure they are not directly over the heat source. Close the lid and let them cook for about 3 hours, or until the meat is tender and starts to pull away from the bones. This slow cooking method ensures juicy and fall-off-the-bone ribs.
Step 6: Glaze with BBQ Sauce
About 30 minutes before the ribs are done, brush them with your favorite BBQ sauce. This step adds a sweet and tangy flavor to the ribs. Close the lid and let the sauce caramelize slightly.
Step 7: Rest and Serve
Once the ribs are cooked to perfection, remove them from the grill and let them rest for a few minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, ensuring moist and tender ribs. Slice the racks into individual ribs, serve with additional BBQ sauce on the side, and enjoy!
Now that you have mastered the art of BBQ ribs, you can impress your friends and family with your grilling skills. Remember, practice makes perfect, so feel free to experiment with different rubs, smoking woods, and BBQ sauces to find your signature style. Get ready to become the BBQ hero at the next cookout!