BBQ Ribs

Summer is here, and that means it’s time to fire up the grill and indulge in some mouth-watering southern BBQ ribs. Whether you’re hosting a backyard bash or just craving some good old-fashioned comfort food, this recipe is sure to satisfy your taste buds. Today, I’m sharing my favorite southern BBQ rib recipe that’s been a hit at every family gathering. Let’s dive in!

Ingredients

For the Ribs:

• 2 racks of baby back ribs (about 4-5 pounds total)
• 1/4 cup yellow mustard
• 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar

For the Dry Rub:

• 1/4 cup brown sugar
• 2 tbsp smoked paprika
• 1 tbsp chili powder
• 1 tbsp garlic powder
• 1 tbsp onion powder
• 1 tbsp ground black pepper
• 1 tbsp kosher salt
• 1 tsp cayenne pepper (optional for a little heat)

For the BBQ Sauce:

• 1 cup ketchup
• 1/2 cup apple cider vinegar
• 1/4 cup brown sugar
• 2 tbsp molasses
• 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp onion powder
• 1/2 tsp ground black pepper
• 1/2 tsp salt

Instructions

1. Prepare the Ribs:
   • Start by removing the membrane from the back of the ribs. This helps the seasoning penetrate the meat and ensures tender ribs.
   • Rub the ribs with a mixture of yellow mustard and apple cider vinegar. This acts as a binding agent for the dry rub and adds a tangy flavor.
2. Apply the Dry Rub:
   • In a small bowl, combine all the dry rub ingredients.
   • Generously coat both sides of the ribs with the dry rub, pressing it into the meat to ensure it sticks well.
3. Marinate:
   • Cover the ribs with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, preferably overnight. This allows the flavors to penetrate the meat thoroughly.
4. Preheat the Grill:
   • Set up your grill for indirect cooking. For a charcoal grill, arrange the coals on one side. For a gas grill, turn on only one side of the burners.
   • Preheat the grill to 225-250°F (107-121°C). Add some soaked wood chips (hickory or applewood work great) to the coals or a smoker box for extra smoky flavor.
5. Cook the Ribs:
   • Place the ribs on the grill over indirect heat, bone side down. Close the lid and cook for about 2.5 to 3 hours.
   • Every hour, spritz the ribs with a mixture of apple cider vinegar and water to keep them moist.
6. Prepare the BBQ Sauce:
   • While the ribs are cooking, combine all the BBQ sauce ingredients in a saucepan.
   • Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it thickens.
7. Glaze the Ribs:
   • After 2.5 to 3 hours, when the ribs are tender and the meat starts pulling away from the bones, brush them with the BBQ sauce.
   • Continue cooking for another 30 minutes, basting with more sauce every 10 minutes.
8. Rest and Serve:
   • Remove the ribs from the grill and let them rest for about 10 minutes.
   • Cut between the bones to separate the ribs and serve with extra BBQ sauce on the side.

Tips for Perfect Ribs

• Low and Slow: Cooking the ribs at a low temperature for a long time ensures they are tender and juicy.
• Moisture: Keep the ribs moist by spritzing them with apple cider vinegar and water during cooking.
• Flavor: Letting the ribs marinate with the dry rub overnight enhances the flavor.

There you have it, folks! A classic southern BBQ rib recipe that’s sure to become a favorite in your household. Fire up the grill, invite some friends over, and enjoy the delicious taste of summer with these succulent ribs.

Happy grilling!

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Feel free to share your own tips and variations in the comments below. I’d love to hear how you make your BBQ ribs extra special.