Ingredients:
- Pork Ribs: A rack of St. Louis-style pork ribs
- Dry Rub:
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1/4 cup paprika
- 1/4 cup chili powder
- 2 tablespoons garlic powder
- 2 tablespoons onion powder
- 2 tablespoons black pepper
- 2 tablespoons salt
- BBQ Sauce: Your favorite BBQ sauce
Instructions:
- Prepare the Ribs:
- Remove the membrane from the back of the ribs.
- Pat the ribs dry with paper towels.
- Apply the Dry Rub:
- Generously rub the dry rub all over the ribs, ensuring even coverage.
- Smoking the Ribs:
- Set Up Your Smoker: Preheat your smoker to 225°F (107°C) using your preferred smoking wood (e.g., hickory, mesquite, or apple).
- Place the Ribs: Place the ribs directly on the smoker grates, bone side down.
- Smoke Low and Slow: Smoke the ribs for 3-4 hours, or until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- Wrap in Foil: Wrap the ribs tightly in aluminum foil with a generous amount of your favorite BBQ sauce.
- Return to Smoker: Place the wrapped ribs back on the smoker for an additional 1-2 hours, or until they reach an internal temperature of 200°F (93°C).
- Finishing Touches:
- Unwrap and Glaze: Remove the ribs from the foil and brush with additional BBQ sauce.
- Return to Smoker: Place the ribs back on the smoker, uncovered, for 30-45 minutes, or until the sauce is caramelized and sticky.
- Serve:
- Remove the ribs from the smoker and let them rest for a few minutes before cutting and serving.
Tips for Perfect BBQ Ribs:
- Choose Quality Ribs: Opt for St. Louis-style ribs for optimal tenderness and flavor.
- Don’t Overcook: Overcooked ribs can become dry and tough. Use a meat thermometer to monitor the internal temperature.
- Experiment with Wood: Different woods impart distinct flavors to the ribs. Try hickory for a smoky flavor, mesquite for a bold flavor, or apple for a sweeter flavor.
- Let Them Rest: Allow the ribs to rest for a few minutes after cooking to redistribute the juices.
- Serve with Sides: Pair your ribs with classic barbecue sides like coleslaw, baked beans, and cornbread.
By following these steps and tips, you can create mouthwatering BBQ pork ribs that will impress your family and friends. Enjoy!