We have some baby back ribs in the butchery this week, perfect for some messy but deeply satisfying finger-licking BBQ.
We have some great rubs in the shop if you don’t want to make your own, including a three chilli sweet rub that comes in it’s own shaker. The Cut from the Smoke range of shakers is perfect for the BBQ.
Sarah also has some lamb ribs – ask at the butchery counter, and follow the recipe below for similar results.
Ingredients:
- 2 racks of baby back ribs
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons paprika
- 2 tablespoons chili powder
- 1 tablespoon garlic powder
- 1 tablespoon onion powder
- 1 tablespoon salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional for heat)
- 1 cup BBQ sauce
Instructions:
- Preheat your grill to medium heat or set up a charcoal grill for indirect cooking. If you prefer, you can also use an oven by preheating it to 275°F (135°C).
- Prepare the ribs by removing the membrane from the back of the racks. Use a knife or your fingers to lift the membrane from one end of the rack, then grab it with a paper towel and pull it off in one piece. This step is optional but helps tenderize the ribs and allows better absorption of flavors.
- In a small bowl, combine the brown sugar, paprika, chili powder, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper (if desired). This will be your dry rub for the ribs.
- Rub the spice mixture all over both sides of the racks, ensuring an even coating. Let the ribs sit at room temperature for about 15-20 minutes to allow the flavors to penetrate the meat.
- If using a grill, place the racks on the grill grates, bone side down. If using an oven, place the ribs on a baking sheet lined with aluminum foil, bone side down. For the oven method, cover the ribs loosely with another sheet of foil to create a tent.
- Cook the ribs for approximately 2.5 to 3 hours on the grill, or 3.5 to 4 hours in the oven. The meat should be tender and easily pull away from the bones.
- During the last 15 minutes of cooking, brush the BBQ sauce over the ribs, ensuring full coverage. Allow the sauce to caramelize slightly.
- Remove the ribs from the grill or oven and let them rest for a few minutes before cutting into individual portions.
- Serve the BBQ baby back ribs with extra BBQ sauce on the side and enjoy!
These BBQ baby back ribs are sure to be a hit at your next cookout or gathering. Enjoy the tender, flavorful meat with a delicious smoky finish!