These fall-off-the-bone ribs are a real treat! With a sweet and smoky flavor, they are grilled to perfection and super easy to make. You won’t be able to resist a second helping!
Let’s be honest, who doesn’t love ribs? They always bring a smile! I like to serve them with some coleslaw and cornbread for a complete meal. Yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Baby Back Ribs: These are my go-to for the perfect balance of meat and tenderness. If you can’t find baby back ribs, spare ribs or St. Louis-style ribs work well too, but they may require longer cooking times.
Dry Rub: You can buy a ready-made rub or create your own mix with spices like paprika, garlic powder, and brown sugar. If you’re looking for a healthier version, omit the sugar and use herbs instead.
Barbecue Sauce: Choose your favorite sauce for flavor. If you want a healthier option, consider a homemade sauce with honey, mustard, and ketchup, or go sugar-free. I find that simple sauces let the meat shine more.
Apple Cider Vinegar: This adds a nice tang and moisture to the ribs. If you don’t have it, use white vinegar or even lemon juice for a similar effect. I usually go for apple cider as it brings a lovely subtle sweetness.
Olive Oil: While this is used for grilling, you can substitute with any high-heat oil like canola or grapeseed oil. I prefer olive oil for its flavor, but it’s nice to have options if you’re cooking at higher temperatures.
How Do I Make Sure My Ribs Are Tender and Juicy?
Getting tender, juicy ribs is all about two key factors: low cooking temperatures and maintaining moisture. Start by removing the membrane; this helps flavors penetrate deeply. Patting them dry ensures the rub sticks well.
- Preheat your grill to a steady low heat (225°F to 250°F). Fluctuating temperatures can dry the meat out.
- Mix apple cider vinegar and water, then spritz this mixture every 30 to 45 minutes while grilling. This will not only keep the ribs moist but also enhance the flavor.
- Remember, patience is key. Cook them slowly for about 2.5 to 3 hours. If they seem to be cooking too fast, reduce the heat.
Lastly, let the ribs rest before slicing to seal in moisture. This step is crucial for juicy results! Enjoy your grilling experience!
How to Make Fall Off The Bone Ribs On The Grill
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 3 racks of baby back ribs (approximately 3-4 pounds each)
- 1 cup of your favorite dry rub (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 cup barbecue sauce (your favorite brand)
- 1/2 cup apple cider vinegar
- 1/2 cup water
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (for grilling)
- Salt and pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe requires about 15 minutes of prep time, plus 2.5 to 3 hours of cooking time on the grill. You’ll want to include at least 30 minutes for the rub to set before cooking. Overall, you’re looking at around 3 to 3.5 hours from start to finish. Grab your favorite drink, and let’s get grilling!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Pre-Prep the Ribs:
Start by removing the thin membrane from the back of the ribs. This helps the flavors of the rub seep into the meat better. Use a paper towel to hold the membrane if it’s slippery, and gently peel it off. Pat the ribs dry with paper towels to ensure a good rub application.
2. Apply Dry Rub:
Generously coat both sides of the ribs with your favorite dry rub. Use your hands to press it into the meat, ensuring it’s evenly covered. Let the seasoned ribs sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes to let the flavors mingle and the rub adhere better.
3. Prepare the Grill:
Preheat your grill to a low heat setting, ideally between 225°F and 250°F. If you are using a charcoal grill, set up the coals for indirect cooking by pushing them to one side, creating a cooler zone for the ribs.
4. Create a Moisture Mix:
In a spray bottle or small bowl, mix together the apple cider vinegar and water. This mixture will help keep the ribs moist while they grill, preventing them from drying out.
5. Grill the Ribs:
Once the grill is ready, place the ribs on the grill bone side down. Close the lid and cook slowly for about 2.5 to 3 hours, making sure to maintain that consistent low temperature. Patience is key for tender ribs!
6. Baste the Ribs:
Every 30 to 45 minutes, spritz the ribs with your apple cider vinegar mixture. This will help keep the surface moist and flavorful as they cook. If you prefer, you can use a brush to gently dab it on too.
7. Add Barbecue Sauce:
In the last 30 minutes of cooking, brush a generous layer of barbecue sauce over the ribs. This allows the sauce to caramelize nicely. If you’re a fan of a really sticky finish, feel free to add a couple of extra layers during this time!
8. Check for Doneness:
The ribs are ready to go when the meat is tender and has shrunk back from the bones a bit. You can also poke the meat with a toothpick; it should glide in and out easily without resistance.
9. Rest the Ribs:
Once you’ve determined that the ribs are cooked to perfection, remove them from the grill. Let them rest for about 10 to 15 minutes before slicing. This resting time is crucial as it allows the juices to redistribute, making the meat even more succulent.
10. Serve:
After resting, slice the ribs between the bones and serve them up with extra barbecue sauce on the side for dipping. Enjoy your delicious, tender ribs that fall off the bone!
Happy grilling!
Can I Use Spare Ribs Instead of Baby Back Ribs?
Yes, spare ribs are a great alternative! They may require a bit longer cooking time, typically around 3 to 4 hours, due to their larger size and thickness. Just keep an eye on the temperature to ensure they don’t dry out!
How Can I Make My Own Dry Rub?
Making your own dry rub is simple! Combine 1 tablespoon each of brown sugar, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper, plus 1 teaspoon each of salt, chili powder, and cayenne pepper for some heat. Adjust the spices to your taste!
How to Store Leftover Ribs?
To store leftover ribs, wrap them tightly in foil or place them in an airtight container. They can be kept in the fridge for up to 3 days. For longer storage, consider freezing them—just ensure they are well-wrapped to avoid freezer burn!
How Do I Know When the Ribs Are Fully Cooked?
Ribs are fully cooked when the meat is tender and has retracted from the bones, usually about 2.5 to 3 hours for baby back ribs at low heat. A toothpick should slide effortlessly into the meat, indicating perfect tenderness!
