Get ready to indulge in the ultimate smoky barbecue pork ribs that make any gathering memorable. This recipe brings that perfect balance of smokiness, sweetness, and a hint of spice — ideal for your next cookout!
The star of this dish is, of course, the pork ribs. Choose nice, meaty racks for the best results. The smoked paprika gives a deep, smoky flavor that's essential for our barbecue feel. Garlic powder and onion powder provide a savory base, while black pepper and salt season the ribs perfectly. We add a kick of heat with cayenne pepper. For the sauce, barbecue sauce serves as a rich, tangy base, enhanced by apple cider vinegar for a bit of acidity. Brown sugar and honey sweeten the deal and help create a nice caramelization on the grill.
These smoky barbecue pork ribs pair beautifully with classic sides like coleslaw, cornbread, or a fresh cucumber salad. For a more indulgent meal, serve with creamy mashed potatoes or baked beans. A cold, crisp beer or a refreshing lemonade complements the smoky flavors perfectly.
Start by preheating your grill to medium heat; you're aiming for about 300°F. While the grill is heating up, mix together your spice rub. In a bowl, combine the smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, salt, and cayenne pepper. Now, take your two racks of pork ribs and pat them dry with a paper towel — this helps the spice rub adhere better.
Rub the spice mixture evenly over both sides of the ribs. Make sure you really press it in there to stick. Then, wrap each rack individually in aluminum foil. This step is crucial for keeping the ribs juicy while they cook. Place the foil-wrapped ribs on the grill and close the lid. Let them cook for 2.5 to 3 hours. Resist the urge to peek too often; maintaining that steady heat is key.
While the ribs are cooking, it's time to make the sauce. In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine the barbecue sauce, apple cider vinegar, brown sugar, and honey. Stir occasionally and let it simmer until it's slightly thickened. This should only take about 10 minutes. Once it’s ready, set it aside until the ribs are done.
When the ribs have cooked for their allotted time, carefully unwrap them. They should already be tender. Brush them generously with the barbecue sauce mixture you've prepared. Put the ribs back on the grill, directly on the grates this time, and cook for another 15-20 minutes. This step allows the sauce to caramelize and creates that lovely, sticky finish.
Once they're looking irresistibly caramelized, remove the ribs from the grill and let them rest for about 10 minutes before slicing. This rest period helps the juices redistribute, ensuring every bite is as juicy as possible.
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