These fall-off-the-bone ribs are perfect for grilling! They’re juicy, tender, and packed with flavor, making every bite a delicious treat for your taste buds.
Trust me, there’s nothing quite like the smell of ribs sizzling on the grill. I love serving them with a side of coleslaw for a great summer meal—what about you? 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Baby Back Ribs: These ribs are meaty and tender. If you’re looking for a change, spare ribs or St. Louis ribs work too, but adjust cooking times since they can be thicker.
Rib Seasoning: For a homemade version, mix paprika, brown sugar, garlic powder, onion powder, and salt. If you want less sodium, go easy on the salt or try a spice blend without it.
Barbecue Sauce: Use your favorite sauce for personal touch. If you’re avoiding sugar, a low-sugar or sugar-free barbecue sauce can be a great option.
Apple Cider Vinegar: This adds a nice tang to the ribs. If you’re out of apple cider vinegar, white vinegar or lemon juice can work as substitutes.
Wood Chips: Hickory gives a traditional smoky flavor, but applewood adds a sweeter note. If you don’t have either, just skip them; you’ll still have delicious ribs!
How Do I Remove the Membrane for Tender Ribs?
Removing the membrane from the back of the ribs is essential for tender meat. This thin layer can make ribs tough if left on.
- Locate the membrane on the back of the ribs; it’s shiny and tough.
- Using a butter knife, gently slide it under one corner of the membrane.
- Grab it with a paper towel for better grip, then pull it off in one piece. If it tears, just keep going!
Taking the time to do this step will make your ribs much more enjoyable, trust me!
Fall Off The Bone Ribs On The Grill
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Ribs:
- 3 racks of pork baby back ribs
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 cup of rib seasoning (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 cup of barbecue sauce (your choice)
- 1 cup apple cider vinegar
- 1 cup of water
- Optional: Wood chips (hickory or applewood) for smoking
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 5 to 6 hours in total. You will need approximately 30 minutes for preparation, and then about 4 to 5 hours for cooking time. Don’t worry, most of the cooking time is for letting those ribs become tender and delicious!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prep Your Grill:
Start by preheating your grill to a low temperature, between 225°F and 250°F. If you’re using a charcoal grill, arrange the coals for indirect heat; that means you place the coals on one side and leave the other side empty to cook the ribs gently.
2. Get the Ribs Ready:
Next, it’s time to prep the ribs. Remove the tough membrane from the back of the ribs—this helps them be more tender. After that, pat them dry with paper towels.
3. Season the Ribs:
Rub the olive oil onto the ribs all over. Then, take your rib seasoning and sprinkle it generously onto both sides of the ribs, making sure they are well coated for maximum flavor.
4. Make Your Moisture Spray:
In a spray bottle, mix together the apple cider vinegar and water. This will be your spritz to keep the ribs moist as they cook. A little extra moisture goes a long way in making them delicious!
5. Grill the Ribs:
Place the ribs on the grill, bone side down. If you’re using wood chips for that awesome smoky flavor, soak them in water for about 30 minutes beforehand, then add them to your grill now.
6. Slow Cook the Ribs:
Close the grill lid and keep an eye on that low temperature. Let the ribs cook for about 3 hours. Make sure to spritz them with your vinegar-water mixture every hour to keep them nice and juicy.
7. Wrap and Grill Again:
After 3 hours, it’s time to add some sweet sauce! Brush a layer of your barbecue sauce on both sides of the ribs. Then, wrap them tightly in aluminum foil and put them back on the grill for another 2 hours.
8. Finish on the Grill:
Once the 2 hours are up, carefully remove the ribs from the foil and place them back on the grill. Brush on some more barbecue sauce and grill them for an additional 30 minutes to 1 hour. This step is great for caramelizing the sauce and giving the ribs that perfect glaze.
9. Let Them Rest:
When the ribs are finished, take them off the grill and let them rest for about 10 to 15 minutes. This helps the juices settle in, making sure they are tender and juicy when you cut into them.
10. Serve and Enjoy:
Finally, it’s time to serve! Slice the ribs between the bones, drizzle on some extra barbecue sauce if desired, and enjoy your delicious fall-off-the-bone ribs with family and friends!
Can I Use Different Cuts of Ribs?
Absolutely! While baby back ribs are a favorite for this recipe, you can also use spare ribs or St. Louis-style ribs. Just note that cooking times may vary, as spare ribs are generally larger and might take a bit longer to become tender.
What If I Don’t Have Barbecue Sauce on Hand?
No worries! You can make a quick homemade barbecue sauce by combining ketchup, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, Worcestershire sauce, and some spices like smoked paprika and garlic powder. Mix these ingredients to taste, and you’ll have a delicious sauce ready to use!
How Do I Store Leftover Ribs?
To store leftovers, wrap the cooled ribs tightly in aluminum foil or place them in an airtight container. They can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze them, and they will keep well for up to 3 months. Just thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
Can I Cook These Ribs in the Oven Instead?
Yes, you can! Preheat your oven to 225°F and cook the ribs on a baking sheet lined with foil. Cook for the same amount of time as on the grill, but keep an eye on them as ovens can vary. Finish with barbecue sauce under the broiler for a few minutes to caramelize!
