Rib fanatics are a passionate bunch, brimming with strong opinions about their favorite cut, style, and sauce. I prefer a Memphis-style dry rub of warm red spices—the peppery heat is the perfect partner for the natural sweetness of pork. The following recipe (featured on the cover of my latest book, Thank You for Smoking) relies on St. Louis–style spareribs, but the method works for any rack. I begin with a two-zone charcoal fire perfumed with a few wood chunks. After the ribs have absorbed a couple hours of smoke, I wrap them and finish the cooking in the oven. The low heat allows the meat to gently braise in the seasoned juices, resulting in meltingly tender, deeply flavored ribs destined to star at your next backyard barbecue.
Follow these simple steps for the perfect smoked ribs:
Prep Ribs
Remove membrane from back of each rack of ribs by pulling it off with a paper towel.
Combine Spices
Whisk ingredients to disperse evenly; swap out some of the sweet paprika for hot if you like your ribs extra spicy.
Season Liberally
Hit both sides with more than you think you need; the rub acts as a dry brine that permeates and pre-seasons the meat.
Rub It In
Rub the spice blend evenly onto both sides of the rib racks. Let stand 30 minutes or chill up to 2 days.
Prep the Grill
Preheat grill; place a drip pan with 1 inch of warm water on side without coals. Add hardwood chunks for smoke.
Flip and Rotate
Use tongs to flip and rotate the ribs every 30 minutes to encourage even cooking and maximum bark.
Get the full recipe for Perfect Smoked Ribs here.
This article was written by Paula Disbrowe from Food & Wine and was legally licensed through the NewsCred publisher network. Please direct all licensing questions to legal@newscred.com.
