These fall-off-the-bone ribs are nothing short of amazing! Cooked on the grill, they become tender, juicy, and packed with flavor, making them a perfect dish for any BBQ.
When I make these ribs, I can’t help but sneak bites before serving. They’re so tasty, I sometimes wonder if there will be any left for guests! 😂
Grilling these ribs is easy, too! Just brush them with your favorite sauce, grill until they’re super tender, and enjoy a delicious meal without all the fuss.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Ribs: You can use either pork spare ribs or baby back ribs based on your preference. Spare ribs are meatier but baby backs are more tender. If you’re looking for a healthier option, try turkey ribs, although they’ll have a different flavor and texture.
Dry Rub: A key to flavorful ribs! You can buy pre-made dry rubs or make your own with spices like brown sugar, paprika, salt, and pepper. Don’t be afraid to adjust the spices to your liking! If you want spice, add cayenne pepper or chili powder.
Barbecue Sauce: Choose your favorite flavor. You might prefer a tangy or sweet sauce; both work well! If you’re avoiding sugar, consider a sugar-free version or make a homemade sauce using pureed tomatoes with spices.
Apple Cider Vinegar: This adds a tangy kick. If you don’t have apple cider vinegar, white vinegar or even lemon juice will work in a pinch. I love adding a splash of it to most marinades for an extra zing.
Liquid Smoke: It adds a smoky flavor that mimics traditional smoking. If you prefer not to use it, you can enhance smoke flavor by adding more wood chips during grilling.
How Do You Properly Cook Ribs on the Grill for Maximum Tenderness?
The cooking process is what helps achieve those tender, fall-off-the-bone ribs. Here’s how you can do it right:
- Remove the membrane on the back of the ribs using a paper towel. It helps flavors get into the meat.
- Let the dry rub sit on the ribs for at least 30 minutes. This allows the spices to soak in nicely.
- Create a two-zone setup on your grill. One side should be hotter for searing and the other cooler for slow cooking.
- Cook the ribs over indirect heat. This low and slow method is key to tenderness, so be patient!
- Keep an eye on your grill temperature. Aim for 250°F to 275°F for even cooking.
- Last but not least, let them rest after cooking! This step is crucial as it allows the juices to redistribute, making each bite juicy and tender.
How to Make Fall Off The Bone Ribs On The Grill
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Ribs:
- 3 racks of pork spare ribs or baby back ribs
- 1/2 cup of your favorite dry rub (store-bought or homemade)
For Flavor Enhancement:
- 1 cup barbecue sauce (your choice of flavor)
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- Optional: 1 tablespoon liquid smoke for extra flavor
- Wood chips for smoking (e.g., hickory or applewood)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 4 to 4.5 hours in total, which includes about 30 minutes for prep and a slow cooking time of 3 to 4 hours on the grill. You’ll spend a little time seasoning and checking the ribs, but the rest is just letting them cook to perfection!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Ribs:
Start your rib-making adventure by removing the membrane from the back of the ribs if it’s still attached. This step is key to letting the flavors of the rub soak in. Then, pat the ribs dry with paper towels to ensure they cook evenly.
2. Season the Ribs:
Now, it’s time to love those ribs! Generously apply your dry rub all over the ribs. Don’t be shy; you want to coat every side well. Once they’re all nicely seasoned, let them sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes so the spices can mingle and enhance the flavor.
3. Preheat the Grill:
While the ribs are resting, heat your grill to a two-zone setup. You’ll want one side for direct heat and the other for indirect heat. Aim for a temperature between 250°F to 275°F (120°C to 135°C). If you’re using wood chips, soak them in water for 30 minutes to give them moisture for smoking, then drain and set aside until ready to add them to the grill.
4. Cook the Ribs:
Place the seasoned ribs bone-side down over the indirect heat on your grill. Close the lid and let those babies cook slowly for about 3 to 4 hours. Keep an eye on the temperature to maintain that lovely low and slow vibe. If you’re going for that extra smoky flavor and using liquid smoke, feel free to mist the ribs with a mix of apple cider vinegar and liquid smoke every hour to keep them moist and flavorful.
5. Sauce the Ribs:
As you approach the last 30 minutes of cooking, it’s time to brush on your barbecue sauce. Apply a generous layer, close the lid, and let it cook down. Just keep an eye on it to prevent burning; you want that beautiful caramelization!
6. Check for Doneness:
Your ribs are ready when the meat pulls back slightly from the bones, and they feel tender. A toothpick or probe knife should slide in easily, showing just how tender they are!
7. Rest and Serve:
Once they’re done, carefully remove the ribs from the grill and let them rest for about 10-15 minutes. This helps the juices settle in. Then, slice them up and serve with extra barbecue sauce on the side for dipping. Enjoy your fall-off-the-bone ribs at your next cookout!
Can I Use Beef Ribs Instead of Pork Ribs?
Absolutely! While the cooking times and flavors might vary, you can use beef ribs with this recipe. Just adjust the cooking time to around 4-5 hours, as beef ribs tend to be thicker and require longer cooking for tenderness.
How Can I Store Leftover Ribs?
Store any leftover ribs in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. If you want to keep them longer, consider wrapping them tightly in foil and freezing for up to 3 months. To reheat, wrap them in foil and warm in the oven at 250°F (120°C) until heated through, about 30-45 minutes.
What if I Don’t Have Wood Chips for Smoking?
No worries! If you don’t have wood chips, you can cook the ribs directly on the grill without the smoking flavor. Alternatively, adding a few drops of liquid smoke to your marinade or barbecue sauce can offer a similar smoky taste.
Can I Cook These Ribs in the Oven Instead?
Yes, you can! Preheat your oven to 275°F (135°C) and place the seasoned ribs on a baking sheet lined with foil. Cover tightly with another layer of foil and bake for about 3-4 hours. Finish with barbecue sauce under the broiler for a few minutes for caramelization.
