Baby Back Ribs on Grill Recipe
There’s nothing quite like the smoky aroma and savory taste of baby back ribs grilled to perfection. This recipe is designed to guide you through the process of creating mouth-watering ribs that will have everyone asking for seconds. With a blend of simple ingredients and a few grilling techniques, you’ll be able to serve up a dish that is both impressive and delicious.
Why you’ll love this recipe lies in its simplicity and the rich, flavorful results. The combination of tender pork ribs and a tangy barbecue sauce, perfectly caramelized on the grill, makes for an unforgettable meal. Whether you’re hosting a backyard barbecue or just craving some classic comfort food, these baby back ribs are sure to satisfy.
Ingredients and Preparation
To begin, gather the following ingredients: 2 racks of baby back pork ribs, each weighing about 2¼ pounds, a pinch of salt and pepper to season to taste, and 1 cup of barbecue sauce.
Preparation Steps
Getting everything ready beforehand is crucial for a smooth cooking process. Here’s how you can prepare your ingredients and grill for optimal results.
Prepping the Grill
Start by preparing your grill. For a charcoal grill, build a fire on one side, leaving the other side free of coals. This setup creates a two-zone cooking environment, essential for properly grilling the ribs. When the coals are coated with gray ash and the temperature reaches medium (you should be able to hold your hand 5 inches above the coals for 5 to 7 seconds), it’s time to start grilling. If you’re using a gas grill, ignite all burners on high, cover the grill, and heat for 15 minutes before reducing the burners to medium.
Mixing the Barbecue Sauce
In the meantime, combine the barbecue sauce with 1 cup of water, stirring until well blended. This thinned sauce will be used for basting the ribs as they cook, ensuring a deep, penetrating flavor.
Seasoning the Ribs
Generously season the ribs with salt and pepper. This basic seasoning will enhance the natural flavors of the pork and create a perfect base for the barbecue sauce.
Cooking the Ribs
Grilling Techniques for Perfect Ribs
Place the seasoned ribs directly over the coals on the grill. Cook for 25 to 30 minutes, turning the ribs every 5 minutes. This frequent turning helps to prevent burning and ensures even cooking. The ribs should be basted with the diluted barbecue sauce each time they are turned, allowing the sauce to caramelize and build up layers of flavor.
Basting Tips for Maximum Flavor
Basting is a critical step in achieving the perfect ribs. Use a brush to generously coat the ribs with the thinned barbecue sauce every time you turn them. This process not only enhances the flavor but also helps to keep the meat moist and tender.
Checking for Doneness
The ribs are done when a peek inside shows no pink remaining in the center, and the meat is tender. This should take about 25 to 30 minutes, but it’s always a good idea to use a meat thermometer to ensure they have reached a safe internal temperature of at least 145°F.
Serving Suggestions
Cutting and Plating the Ribs Once the ribs are cooked to perfection, remove them from the grill and let them rest for a few minutes. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat. Then, cut the racks into individual ribs using a sharp knife.
Garnishing Ideas To elevate the presentation, consider garnishing the ribs with fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro. A sprinkle of sesame seeds or a dash of chili flakes can also add a touch of sophistication and a hint of extra flavor.
Recipe Tips & Frequently Asked Questions
Recipe Tips:
- Best Type of Grill to Use: Both charcoal and gas grills work well, but charcoal grills add an extra smoky flavor.
- How to Control Grill Temperature: Adjust vents on a charcoal grill or burners on a gas grill to maintain a medium heat.
- Tips for Even Cooking: Turn the ribs frequently and position them away from direct flames to prevent burning.
Frequently Asked Questions:
- Can I Use a Different Type of Rib? Yes, spare ribs or St. Louis-style ribs can also be used but may require longer cooking times.
- How Do I Store Leftover Ribs? Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 3 months.
- Can This Recipe Be Made in the Oven? Absolutely, bake the ribs at 300°F for about 2 hours, then broil to finish.
These baby back ribs on the grill are a surefire way to impress your guests and satisfy your taste buds. The combination of a simple yet flavorful seasoning, consistent basting, and careful grilling technique results in ribs that are tender, juicy, and full of smoky goodness. Give this recipe a try and enjoy the delicious rewards of your effort.
Ingredients
- 2 racks baby back pork ribs, about 2¼ pounds each
- 1 cup barbecue sauce (see recipe)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
Prepare your grill by building a fire on one side, leaving the other side free of coals. When the coals are coated with gray ash and the temperature reaches medium (you should be able to hold your hand 5 inches above the coals for 5 to 7 seconds), it’s time to start grilling. For those using a gas grill, ignite all burners on high, cover the grill, and heat for 15 minutes before reducing the burners to medium.
In the meantime, mix the barbecue sauce with 1 cup of water, stirring until well combined. Set this mixture aside.
Generously season the ribs with salt and pepper. Place the ribs directly over the coals on the grill. Cook for 25 to 30 minutes, flipping them every 5 minutes and basting with the diluted barbecue sauce.
Continue until the meat is fully cooked with no pink remaining in the center.
Remove the ribs from the grill, slice them into individual pieces, and serve hot.
Baby Back Ribs on Grill Recipe
Ingredients
- 2 racks baby back pork ribs about 2¼ pounds each
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup barbecue sauce see recipe
Instructions
- Prepare your grill by building a fire on one side, leaving the other side free of coals. When the coals are coated with gray ash and the temperature reaches medium (you should be able to hold your hand 5 inches above the coals for 5 to 7 seconds), it’s time to start grilling. For those using a gas grill, ignite all burners on high, cover the grill, and heat for 15 minutes before reducing the burners to medium.
- In the meantime, mix the barbecue sauce with 1 cup of water, stirring until well combined. Set this mixture aside.
- Generously season the ribs with salt and pepper. Place the ribs directly over the coals on the grill. Cook for 25 to 30 minutes, flipping them every 5 minutes and basting with the diluted barbecue sauce.
- Continue until the meat is fully cooked with no pink remaining in the center.
- Remove the ribs from the grill, slice them into individual pieces, and serve hot.