Get ready for some mouthwatering ribs that just slide off the bone! These juicy, flavorful ribs are grilled to perfection, making every bite a little piece of heaven.
Honestly, there’s nothing quite like tearing into a rib and having it fall right apart! I love serving them up with some coleslaw and corn on the side – perfect for a fun family cookout!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Baby Back Ribs: These are ideal for tender, juicy ribs. If you can’t find them, spare ribs are a good alternative, though they might take a bit longer to cook.
Olive Oil: This helps the spice rub stick and adds moisture. You can swap it with canola oil or vegetable oil if you prefer something lighter or have allergies.
Spices: The mix of garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, and spices really brings depth. If you’re out of smoked paprika, regular paprika works; just skip or reduce the cayenne if heat isn’t your thing.
Barbecue Sauce: Choosing your favorite sauce adds a personal touch. Homemade sauce can be fun too! If you want to avoid sugar, look for low-sugar varieties or make a vinegar-based sauce instead.
How Do You Remove the Membrane from Ribs?
Removing the membrane from the back of the ribs is essential for flavor and tenderness. This thin layer can make it hard for seasonings to penetrate. Here’s how to do it:
- Use a paper towel to grip the membrane; it offers good traction.
- Start at one end and gently pull towards the other end, working slowly to avoid tearing.
- If it’s tough, use a knife to loosen it along the edges before pulling.
Taking this step ensures more flavorful ribs and a great eating experience! Trust me, it’s worth the bit of extra effort.
Fall Off The Bone Ribs On The Grill
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Ribs:
- 2 racks baby back ribs
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 tablespoon salt
- 1 tablespoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon garlic powder
- 1 tablespoon onion powder
- 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
- 1 cup barbecue sauce (your choice)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes for preparation and about 2.5 to 3 hours for cooking. So, set aside roughly 3 hours to enjoy these delicious ribs that will fall off the bone!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat Your Grill:
Start by preheating your grill for indirect cooking. Aim for a steady temperature of about 275°F (135°C). This low and slow method will make your ribs tender and flavorful.
2. Prepare the Ribs:
Take your racks of ribs and look for the thin membrane on the back (the bony side). Carefully remove this membrane, as it can make the ribs tough. Pat the ribs dry with paper towels to help the spices stick better.
3. Mix the Spice Rub:
In a small bowl, combine the salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, brown sugar, and cayenne pepper (if you like a bit of heat). Mix these ingredients well to create your spice rub.
4. Season the Ribs:
Drizzle the olive oil over both sides of the ribs and rub it in gently. Next, take your spice rub and generously apply it on both sides of the ribs, pressing it into the meat. This will add lots of delicious flavor!
5. Grill the Ribs:
Place the ribs on the grill with the bone side facing down. Close the lid and cook them for about 2.5 to 3 hours. Check the grill temperature occasionally to maintain that nice, slow cooking.
6. Add the Barbecue Sauce:
During the last 30 minutes of cooking, take your favorite barbecue sauce and brush it over the ribs. This will create a tasty glaze that makes them even more delicious!
7. Check for Tenderness:
Once the ribs are flexible and the bones are easily exposed, they are ready! Use tongs to remove them from the grill carefully.
8. Rest and Serve:
Let the ribs rest for about 10 minutes to allow the juices to redistribute. Then, slice between the bones for nice portions. Serve warm with extra barbecue sauce on the side and enjoy your fall-off-the-bone ribs!
Can I Use Different Types of Ribs?
Absolutely! While this recipe is perfect for baby back ribs, you can also use spare ribs or St. Louis-style ribs. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary. Spare ribs usually take a bit longer, around 3 to 4 hours, since they have more meat and connective tissue.
What Can I Substitute for Barbecue Sauce?
If you’re looking for a different flavor, you can substitute barbecue sauce with a mixture of honey, mustard, and vinegar for a tangy twist. Alternatively, try a homemade sauce using ketchup, vinegar, brown sugar, and spices to suit your taste!
How Should I Store Leftover Ribs?
To store leftovers, wrap the ribs tightly in aluminum foil or place them in an airtight container. They can be refrigerated for up to 3 days. For longer storage, consider freezing them—just make sure they are wrapped well to avoid freezer burn!
Can I Cook These Ribs in the Oven Instead?
Yes, you can! Preheat your oven to 275°F (135°C) and follow the same preparation steps. Place the ribs on a baking sheet lined with foil and cover with another piece of foil to keep them moist. Bake for about 3 hours, then uncover, apply barbecue sauce, and broil for a few minutes to get that caramelized glaze.
