BBQ Beef Ribs

by

BBQ Beef Ribs are a mouthwatering, fall-off-the-bone dish that’s perfect for grilling, smoking, or slow cooking. Whether you’re hosting a backyard barbecue or just craving some hearty comfort food, this recipe will guide you through making tender, flavorful beef ribs with a smoky, tangy BBQ glaze. Here’s how to do it:

BBQ Beef Ribs Recipe

Ingredients (Serves 4-6)

For the Ribs:

  • 2-3 lbs (about 1-1.5 kg) beef ribs (plate ribs or back ribs)
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil (for coating)

For the Dry Rub:

  • 2 tablespoons brown sugar
  • 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
  • 1 tablespoon garlic powder
  • 1 tablespoon onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon chili powder
  • 1 teaspoon cumin
  • 1 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon salt

For the BBQ Sauce:

  • 1 cup ketchup
  • 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
  • 2 tablespoons brown sugar
  • 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Prepare the Ribs:

  1. Pat the beef ribs dry with paper towels. Coat them lightly with olive oil to help the rub stick.
  2. In a small bowl, mix all the dry rub ingredients. Generously coat the ribs with the rub, pressing it into the meat. Let the ribs sit at room temperature for 30 minutes (or refrigerate for up to 24 hours for deeper flavor).

2. Cook the Ribs:

  • Oven Method:
  1. Preheat the oven to 300°F (150°C).
  2. Wrap the ribs tightly in aluminum foil and place them on a baking sheet.
  3. Bake for 2.5-3 hours, or until the meat is tender and starts to pull away from the bone.
  4. Remove from the oven and let them rest for 10 minutes before unwrapping.
  • Grill/Smoker Method:
  1. Preheat your grill or smoker to 225°F (110°C). Use hardwood chips (like hickory or mesquite) for smoking.
  2. Place the ribs on the grill or smoker, bone-side down. Cook for 5-6 hours, maintaining a consistent temperature, until the ribs are tender and the internal temperature reaches 200-203°F (93-95°C).
  3. Spritz the ribs with apple juice or water every hour to keep them moist.

3. Make the BBQ Sauce:

  1. In a saucepan, combine all the BBQ sauce ingredients. Simmer over medium heat for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.

4. Glaze and Finish the Ribs:

  1. Preheat your grill or broiler to high heat.
  2. Brush the ribs generously with the BBQ sauce.
  3. Grill or broil the ribs for 2-3 minutes per side, until the sauce caramelizes and forms a sticky glaze. Be careful not to burn them.

5. Serve:

  1. Slice the ribs between the bones and serve with extra BBQ sauce on the side.
  2. Pair with classic sides like coleslaw, cornbread, baked beans, or potato salad.

Tips

  • Low and Slow: The key to tender beef ribs is cooking them low and slow. Don’t rush the process!
  • Resting Time: Let the ribs rest for 10-15 minutes after cooking to allow the juices to redistribute.
  • Customize the Sauce: Add honey, molasses, or hot sauce to the BBQ sauce for a personalized touch.
  • Leftovers: Store leftover ribs in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or on the grill.

Enjoy your BBQ Beef Ribs—a smoky, savory, and satisfying dish that’s sure to impress! Let me know if you’d like more tips or variations. 😊

Leave a Comment