Craving a mouthwatering, fall-off-the-bone delicious meal that's perfect for a weekend gathering or a cozy family dinner? Look no further! This country-style pork ribs smoker recipe is your ticket to smoky, tender perfection. Forget takeout – homemade cooking has never been easier or more rewarding. This recipe delivers on flavor and ease, making it a fantastic choice for both beginner and experienced cooks. Prepare to impress your loved ones with this truly delicious dish, a testament to the magic of slow cooking and the smoky goodness of your smoker.
Ingredients:
- 3 lbs country-style pork ribs
- 1 cup your favorite BBQ rub (recipe below, or use store-bought)
- 1 cup apple cider vinegar
- ½ cup apple juice
- ¼ cup brown sugar
- 2 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tbsp liquid smoke (optional, but adds depth)
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- ½ tsp black pepper
- Wood chips (apple, hickory, or pecan work well)
Homemade BBQ Rub Recipe (Optional):
- ½ cup brown sugar
- ¼ cup paprika
- 2 tbsp chili powder
- 2 tbsp garlic powder
- 2 tbsp onion powder
- 1 tbsp cumin
- 1 tbsp black pepper
- 1 tbsp salt
Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Ribs
Pat the pork ribs dry with paper towels. This helps the rub adhere better. Generously apply your homemade or store-bought BBQ rub all over the ribs, ensuring every surface is coated.
Step 2: Prepare the Mop Sauce
In a bowl, whisk together the apple cider vinegar, apple juice, brown sugar, Worcestershire sauce, liquid smoke (if using), garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper. This creates a delicious mop sauce that keeps the ribs moist during smoking.
Step 3: Smoking the Ribs
Preheat your smoker to 225°F (107°C). Add your chosen wood chips according to your smoker’s instructions. Place the ribs on the smoker grates.
Step 4: Maintain Consistent Temperature and Moisture
Smoke the ribs for approximately 4-6 hours, or until they reach an internal temperature of 190-200°F (88-93°C). Every hour or so, baste the ribs generously with the mop sauce using a brush. This keeps them tender and flavorful.
Step 5: Check for Doneness
Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the ribs. They are done when the meat is tender and easily pulls away from the bone.
Step 6: Rest and Serve
Once cooked, remove the ribs from the smoker and let them rest for at least 15 minutes before slicing and serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in incredibly tender and juicy ribs. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Tips for the Best Country Style Pork Ribs:
- Don't overcrowd the smoker: Ensure there's enough space between the ribs for even smoking.
- Use a good quality meat thermometer: This is crucial for ensuring the ribs are cooked to perfection.
- Adjust cooking time: Cooking times may vary depending on the size and thickness of your ribs and your smoker.
- Experiment with different wood chips: Different wood chips impart unique smoky flavors to your ribs.
Variations:
- Spicy Ribs: Add cayenne pepper or your favorite hot sauce to the rub or mop sauce for a spicy kick.
- Sweet and Savory Ribs: Increase the amount of brown sugar in the rub or mop sauce for a sweeter flavor profile.
- Herb-infused Ribs: Add fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme to the rub for a more complex flavor.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This will vary depending on the specific ingredients used. For a precise calculation, use a nutrition calculator and input your exact ingredients and serving sizes. However, as a general guideline, expect a serving to be relatively high in protein and fat, and moderate in carbohydrates.
This recipe is a perfect example of delicious, easy recipes and healthy meals that are surprisingly quick dinner ideas. With a little planning, you can enjoy restaurant-quality food, made from scratch, right in the comfort of your own home. Embrace the joy of homemade cooking and enjoy these fantastic country style pork ribs!