Are you craving that smoky, tender, fall-off-the-bone goodness only charcoal-grilled ribs can deliver? Look no further! This recipe will guide you through creating mouthwatering ribs that are perfect for a weekend barbecue, a family gathering, or a cozy night in. Forget takeout – this easy recipe will have you mastering the art of homemade cooking in no time. Get ready to impress your friends and family with this delicious dish!
Ingredients:
- 3-4 pounds pork ribs (baby back or spare ribs)
- 1 cup your favorite barbecue sauce (store-bought or homemade)
- 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon paprika
- 1 tablespoon garlic powder
- 1 tablespoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for extra heat)
- 1 teaspoon salt
Equipment:
- Charcoal grill
- Charcoal briquettes
- Chimney starter (highly recommended)
- Meat thermometer
- Aluminum foil
- Basting brush
Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Ribs
Preheat your grill to medium-low heat (around 250-275°F). While the grill heats, pat the ribs dry with paper towels. This helps the rub adhere better and promotes a nice char.
Step 2: Make the Dry Rub
In a small bowl, combine the brown sugar, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, cayenne pepper (if using), and salt. Mix well. Generously rub this mixture all over the ribs, ensuring they are evenly coated.
Step 3: Wrap and Smoke
Place the ribs on the grill over indirect heat. This means they should not be directly above the hot coals. Close the grill lid and cook for 2-3 hours, maintaining a consistent temperature. After 2 hours, add the apple cider vinegar to the ribs. Wrap the ribs loosely in aluminum foil.
Step 4: Baste and Finish
Continue cooking the wrapped ribs for another 1-1.5 hours, or until the meat is very tender and almost falls off the bone. Unwrap the ribs and baste generously with your favorite barbecue sauce. Return them to the grill, uncovered, for the last 15-20 minutes to allow the sauce to caramelize and create a beautiful glaze.
Step 5: Check for Doneness
Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the ribs. They are done when they reach an internal temperature of 190-200°F. The meat should be incredibly tender and easily pull away from the bone.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy!
Carefully remove the ribs from the grill and let them rest for a few minutes before slicing and serving. These delicious ribs are perfect on their own or served with your favorite sides like coleslaw, potato salad, or corn on the cob.
Tips for the Best Charcoal Grill Ribs:
- Use good quality charcoal: This will significantly impact the flavor of your ribs.
- Don't rush the process: Low and slow cooking is key to achieving tender, juicy ribs.
- Maintain consistent temperature: Use a reliable thermometer to monitor the grill temperature.
- Experiment with different sauces: Try various barbecue sauces to find your favorite.
Variations:
- Spicy Ribs: Increase the amount of cayenne pepper or add a dash of your favorite hot sauce to the rub.
- Sweet and Savory Ribs: Add a tablespoon of honey or maple syrup to the dry rub.
- Citrus Ribs: Add some orange or lemon zest to the rub for a bright, fresh flavor.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This will vary depending on the size of the ribs and the ingredients used. However, a general estimate per serving (assuming 4 servings) is:
- Calories: Approximately 500-600
- Protein: Approximately 40-50g
- Fat: Approximately 30-40g
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 20-30g
This recipe provides a healthy balance of protein and fat, making it a satisfying and delicious meal. Remember to adjust serving sizes to fit your dietary needs. Enjoy your delicious and easy homemade meal!