Summer is the perfect time for outdoor gatherings, and nothing says summer quite like the smoky, succulent flavor of barbecue ribs. Whether you’re hosting a backyard bash or a casual family dinner, mastering the art of cooking ribs will make you the star of any summer event. In this guide, we’ll take you through the entire process—from selecting the best ribs to serving up a plate of perfectly cooked, mouth-watering barbecue ribs. Let’s get started!
Summer Barbecue Ribs
Prep Time: 30 min
Cook Time: 4 – 5 hours
Ingredients
For the Ribs
- 2 racks of baby back ribs or St. Louis style ribs
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons yellow mustard
For the Dry Rub
- 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 (optional, for heat)
For the Barbecue Sauce
- 1 cup ketchup
- 1/2 cup apple cider vinegar
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1/4 cup honey
- 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tablespoon yellow mustard
- 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
Preparation
Step 1: Prepping the Ribs
- Remove the Membrane: Using a knife, lift the edge of the membrane on the bone side of the ribs and pull it off.
- Apply Olive Oil and Mustard: Rub each rack with olive oil and then a layer of yellow mustard. This helps the dry rub adhere better and enhances the flavor.
- Season with Dry Rub: Mix all the dry rub ingredients in a bowl. Generously coat both sides of the ribs with the dry rub, pressing it into the meat.
Step 2: Preparing the Grill
- Set Up for Indirect Grilling: Preheat your grill to 225°F (107°C). If using a charcoal grill, push the coals to one side. If using a gas grill, turn on only half the burners.
- Add Wood Chips for Smoke (Optional): Soak wood chips in water for 30 minutes, then add to the coals or a smoker box.
Cooking
Step 3: Cooking the Ribs
- Place the Ribs on the Grill: Position the ribs on the side of the grill away from the heat source.
- Cook Low and Slow: Maintain a consistent temperature of 225°F (107°C). Cook the ribs for 4-5 hours, checking periodically to ensure the temperature stays steady.
- Wrap in Foil (Optional): After 3 hours, you can wrap the ribs in aluminum foil to keep them moist. This is known as the “Texas crutch.”
Step 4: Preparing the Barbecue Sauce
- Combine Ingredients: While the ribs are cooking, mix all the barbecue sauce ingredients in a saucepan.
- Simmer: Bring to a simmer over medium heat and cook for 20 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Step 5: Glazing the Ribs
- Apply the Sauce: In the last 30 minutes of cooking, brush the ribs with the barbecue sauce.
- Caramelize the Sauce: Increase the grill temperature to 275°F (135°C) and cook for another 15-30 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken and caramelize.
Serving
Step 6: Rest and Serve
- Rest the Ribs: Once done, remove the ribs from the grill and let them rest for 10-15 minutes.
- Slice and Serve: Cut the ribs between the bones, serve with extra barbecue sauce on the side, and enjoy!
Tips for Perfect Ribs
- Temperature Control: Consistent low temperature is key for tender ribs.
- Don’t Rush: Patience is crucial for the best results.
- Experiment with Wood: Different wood chips (like hickory, apple, or cherry) can add unique flavors.
With these steps, you’re well on your way to creating the best summer barbecue ribs. So fire up that grill, gather your ingredients, and enjoy the process of cooking and sharing this delicious dish with family and friends. Happy grilling!