Description
Delicious and tender baby back pork ribs grilled to perfection with a smoky spice rub and a sweet, tangy BBQ sauce glaze. These irresistible BBQ ribs are perfect for summer cookouts or any occasion that calls for rich, flavorful meat with a caramelized finish.
Ingredients
Scale
Ribs and Seasoning
- 2 lbs baby back pork ribs
- 1/4 cup dark brown sugar
- 2 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 2 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
BBQ Sauce
- 1 cup BBQ sauce (store-bought or homemade)
- 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar
Instructions
- Preheat Grill: Preheat your grill to medium heat, ensuring it reaches a consistent temperature ideal for slow cooking the ribs evenly.
- Prepare Ribs: Remove the membrane from the back of the ribs. This thin layer can block seasonings and smoke from penetrating the meat, so removing it allows for better flavor absorption and tenderness.
- Make Spice Rub: In a bowl, mix together the brown sugar, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper to create a sweet and smoky seasoning rub.
- Apply Rub: Generously coat both sides of the ribs with the prepared spice mixture, making sure to press the rub into the meat for maximum flavor.
- Grill Ribs: Place the ribs bone-side down on the grill. Cook for 1 to 1.5 hours over medium heat, maintaining consistent temperature. Occasionally baste the ribs with BBQ sauce to build layers of flavor and encourage caramelization.
- Final Basting: During the last 15 minutes of cooking, brush the ribs thoroughly with BBQ sauce to achieve a glossy, sticky finish that enhances both taste and appearance.
- Rest and Serve: Remove the ribs from the grill and let them rest for 10 minutes. Resting allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, resulting in a tender and juicy bite. Slice and serve hot.
Notes
- Removing the membrane from ribs is key to improved texture and flavor absorption.
- Use indirect heat on the grill to avoid burning the sugar in the rub and BBQ sauce.
- Basting frequently helps develop a rich, caramelized crust.
- Resting the meat after grilling ensures juicier ribs.
- Feel free to adjust the BBQ sauce amount or use your favorite homemade variety for personalized flavor.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: American