Southern Grilled BBQ Ribs Recipe

Southern Grilled BBQ Ribs are a summer favorite that'll have your taste buds dancing! You'll start by making a flavorful dry rub with brown sugar, paprika, and spices. Massage this into the ribs and let them chill overnight. When you're ready to cook, set up your grill for indirect heat and slow-cook those ribs at a low temperature. Every hour, you'll baste them with tangy BBQ sauce, creating a delicious caramelized crust. The result? Fall-off-the-bone tender meat that's packed with smoky, sweet flavors. Pair them with classic sides like coleslaw and baked beans for the ultimate BBQ experience. There's more to discover about mastering this mouthwatering dish!

Key Takeaways

• Apply a dry rub of brown sugar, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and spices to ribs, then refrigerate overnight.
• Set up grill for indirect heat, maintaining a temperature of 225-250°F (107-121°C) in the cool zone.
• Cook ribs bone-side down on the cooler side of the grill, basting with BBQ sauce every 15 minutes after the first hour.
• Flip and baste ribs every 15 minutes for 1 hour, allowing sauce to caramelize and form a crust.
• Cook until meat is fall-off-the-bone tender, typically 3-4 hours, depending on rib thickness and grill temperature consistency.

History

Barbecue, a culinary tradition deeply rooted in the American South, has a rich history that spans centuries. You might be surprised to learn that the practice of slow-cooking meat over low heat originated with Native Americans. When European settlers arrived, they quickly adopted this cooking method, adding their own flavors and techniques.

As you explore the history of Southern BBQ, you'll discover that each region developed its own unique style. In the Carolinas, you'll find pork with a vinegar-based sauce, while in Texas, beef brisket reigns supreme. Memphis is famous for its dry-rubbed ribs, and Kansas City loves its sweet, thick sauce.

The tradition of barbecue has always been about bringing people together. It's a way to serve your community, celebrate special occasions, and show hospitality.

Over time, barbecue competitions and festivals have become popular, allowing pitmasters to showcase their skills and share their love of good food with others.

Today, when you grill BBQ ribs, you're not just cooking a meal – you're participating in a centuries-old tradition that's all about sharing and caring.

Recipe

Southern Grilled BBQ Ribs are a summertime staple, perfect for backyard gatherings and family dinners. This recipe combines the smoky flavors of slow-cooked pork with a tangy, sweet barbecue sauce that will have everyone licking their fingers.

To achieve the perfect Southern-style ribs, we'll use a dry rub to infuse flavor into the meat before slow-cooking them on the grill. The secret to tender, fall-off-the-bone ribs is patience and maintaining a consistent low temperature throughout the cooking process.

• 2 racks of pork baby back ribs
• 1/4 cup brown sugar
• 2 tablespoons paprika
• 1 tablespoon garlic powder
• 1 tablespoon onion powder
• 1 tablespoon black pepper
• 1 tablespoon salt
• 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper
• 1 cup apple juice
• 1 cup barbecue sauce

Begin by removing the membrane from the back of the ribs and trimming any excess fat. Mix the dry rub ingredients and apply generously to both sides of the ribs. Preheat your grill for indirect cooking at 225°F (107°C).

Place the ribs on the cooler side of the grill, bone-side down, and cook for about 4-5 hours, spritzing with apple juice every hour. When the internal temperature reaches 190°F (88°C), brush the ribs with barbecue sauce and grill for an additional 10-15 minutes until the sauce is caramelized.

For best results, allow the ribs to rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing and serving. If you don't have a grill, you can achieve similar results by slow-cooking the ribs in the oven at 275°F (135°C) for 2.5-3 hours, then finishing them under the broiler.

Cooking Steps

Now that you've got your recipe ready, it's time to start cooking those mouthwatering ribs!

You'll begin by preparing the dry rub and applying it to the ribs, then set up your grill for indirect heat.

Once the grill is ready, you'll place the ribs on it and baste them with sauce as they cook to perfection.

Step 1. Prepare the Dry Rub

To kick off the rib-making process, you'll need to whip up a flavorful dry rub. This blend of spices will infuse your ribs with mouthwatering goodness that'll have your guests begging for seconds.

In a medium bowl, mix together 1/4 cup of brown sugar, 2 tablespoons of paprika, 1 tablespoon each of garlic powder and onion powder, 1 teaspoon of black pepper, and 1/2 teaspoon of cayenne pepper. Don't forget to add 1 tablespoon of salt to enhance all those flavors!

Give the mixture a good stir to make sure everything's well combined.

Now, here's a pro tip: if you like your ribs with a bit more kick, feel free to add an extra pinch of cayenne. On the flip side, if you're cooking for folks who prefer milder flavors, you can dial back on the spice.

Once you're happy with your blend, it's time to put it to work. Sprinkle the rub generously over both sides of your ribs, gently patting it in to help it stick. Your ribs are now ready for the next step in their journey to barbecue perfection!

Step 2. Apply Rub to Ribs

Grab your prepared rack of ribs and place them on a clean work surface. It's time to give those ribs some flavor! Take your dry rub mixture and sprinkle it generously over both sides of the ribs. Don't be shy – you want to cover every inch of that meat with the tasty spices.

Now, here's the fun part: use your hands to gently massage the rub into the ribs. This helps the flavors really stick and penetrate the meat. Make sure you're getting into all the nooks and crannies. It might get a bit messy, but that's part of the joy of cooking!

Once you've covered the ribs completely, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil. This step is important because it allows the flavors to meld and soak into the meat.

Pop the wrapped ribs in the fridge for at least 2 hours, but overnight is even better if you've got the time. The longer they sit, the more flavorful they'll be. Your friends and family are going to love these ribs!

Step 3. Prepare Grill for Indirect Heat

While your ribs are marinating, it's time to get your grill ready. You'll want to set up your grill for indirect heat, which is key for perfectly cooked ribs.

If you're using a charcoal grill, pile the hot coals on one side, leaving the other side empty. For a gas grill, turn on only half of the burners. This creates two temperature zones: a hot side for searing and a cooler side for slow cooking.

Next, place a drip pan filled with water on the cool side of the grill. This helps keep the ribs moist and catches any drippings. Aim for a temperature of about 225-250°F (107-121°C) in the cool zone. You can adjust the vents or burners to maintain this temperature.

Before you put the ribs on, oil the grates to prevent sticking. Use tongs to dip a paper towel in vegetable oil and rub it over the grates.

Now you're all set to start grilling those delicious ribs! Remember, patience is key when it comes to BBQ, so get ready for a few hours of mouthwatering aromas filling your backyard.

Step 4. Place Ribs on Grill

Now that your grill is preheated and ready, it's time to start cooking those mouthwatering ribs. Grab your prepared ribs and carefully place them on the grill grates, bone-side down. Make sure they're not directly over the heat source to avoid burning.

You'll want to position them on the cooler side of the grill for that perfect slow-cooked flavor. Space the racks evenly, leaving a little room between each one. This allows the heat and smoke to circulate freely, ensuring even cooking.

If you're using a rib rack, slide the ribs into the slots, making sure they're secure and upright. Once the ribs are in place, close the grill lid. This traps the heat and smoke, creating an oven-like environment that'll work wonders on your ribs.

Remember, you're aiming for low and slow cooking, so resist the urge to peek too often. Every time you open the lid, you're letting out precious heat and smoke.

Now, let's let those ribs start their journey to deliciousness! Your guests will be in for a real treat.

Step 5. Baste Ribs With Sauce

As your ribs have been cooking for about an hour, it's time to start basting them with your prepared BBQ sauce. This step is essential for adding that signature Southern flavor and creating a sticky, delicious glaze. Grab your basting brush and get ready to show those ribs some love!

First, open the grill lid carefully, as there'll be a lot of heat and smoke. Using long-handled tongs, flip the ribs over. Now, generously brush the sauce onto the meat side. Don't be shy – really slather it on! Close the lid and let the ribs cook for another 15 minutes.

Repeat this process every 15 minutes for the next hour, flipping and basting each time. You'll notice the sauce start to caramelize, creating a mouth-watering crust.

As you baste, keep an eye on the grill temperature, adjusting the vents if needed to maintain a steady 250°F. This patient, loving attention to your ribs will result in fall-off-the-bone tender meat that'll have your guests coming back for seconds – and thirds!

Final Thoughts

Satisfaction awaits at the end of this Southern Grilled BBQ Ribs journey. You've put in the time and effort to create a mouthwatering masterpiece that'll have your family and friends begging for more.

Remember, practice makes perfect, so don't be discouraged if your first attempt isn't flawless. Each time you make these ribs, you'll learn something new and refine your technique.

As you serve up these tender, flavorful ribs, take a moment to appreciate the joy you're bringing to others. There's something special about sharing a meal you've prepared with love.

Don't forget to pair your ribs with classic Southern sides like coleslaw, baked beans, or cornbread to complete the experience. And if you have any leftovers (though that's unlikely!), they'll make for great sandwiches the next day.

Keep experimenting with different rubs and sauces to find your signature flavor. Before long, you'll be known as the neighborhood's rib master.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Use Beef Ribs Instead of Pork Ribs for This Recipe?

You can definitely use beef ribs instead of pork ribs.

While the flavor profile will be different, beef ribs can still be delicious when grilled. They're typically meatier and might take a bit longer to cook, so you'll want to adjust your cooking time.

Remember to season them well and keep an eye on the temperature. You might also need to tweak your sauce or rub to complement the beef's richer flavor.

Don't be afraid to experiment and make it your own!

How Long Can I Store Leftover Grilled BBQ Ribs in the Refrigerator?

You'll want to store those delicious leftover BBQ ribs in the fridge as soon as possible!

When properly stored in an airtight container, they'll stay fresh for 3-4 days. Make sure you've cooled them down before refrigerating.

When you're ready to enjoy them again, reheat them thoroughly to 165°F (74°C) for safety.

What Side Dishes Pair Well With Southern Grilled BBQ Ribs?

You'd think pairing sides with BBQ ribs would be a breeze, right? Well, you're in for a treat!

Serve up some classic coleslaw, it's a cool contrast to the rich ribs. Don't forget creamy potato salad or crispy cornbread. Baked beans are a must-have, and grilled corn on the cob adds a smoky sweetness.

For a healthier option, try a fresh green salad. These sides will complement your ribs perfectly, making your meal a hit with family and friends!

Is It Possible to Make This Recipe in an Oven Instead?

You can definitely make this recipe in your oven. It's a great alternative when grilling isn't an option.

You'll want to adjust the cooking method slightly. Start by seasoning your ribs as usual, then wrap them in foil. Bake at 275°F for about 2-3 hours until they're tender.

For that crispy exterior, unwrap and broil for a few minutes. Don't forget to baste with your favorite BBQ sauce!

The result? Delicious, fall-off-the-bone ribs right from your oven.

How Can I Adjust the Spice Level of the BBQ Sauce?

Sweet or spicy? You're in control!

To adjust the heat of your BBQ sauce, you've got options. Start by adding small amounts of cayenne pepper, hot sauce, or red pepper flakes for more kick.

If you're looking to cool things down, try mixing in some honey or brown sugar.

Remember, it's easier to add spice than to take it away, so taste as you go.

You'll soon have the perfect sauce to delight your guests' taste buds!