How to cook ribs on the grill

As summer rolls around and the tantalizing smell of barbecues fills the air, many grilling enthusiasts start to consider the ultimate crowd-pleaser: ribs. Maybe you’ve just purchased a beautiful rack of pork ribs from the local butcher, or perhaps you’ve been tasked with bringing the main dish to your weekend family cookout. The excitement of creating a dish that will impress loved ones might lead you to wonder, “How do you properly cook ribs on the grill?” Fear not; with the right techniques and a little patience, you’ll be well on your way to serving up tender, mouthwatering ribs that will have everyone coming back for seconds.

To cook ribs on the grill, start by seasoning them with your favorite rub, then preheat the grill to a low temperature. Place the ribs bone side down, cover, and cook for about 3 to 4 hours, maintaining a grill temperature of 225°F to 250°F, occasionally spritzing with apple juice or a vinegar solution for moisture. Finish with a glaze of barbecue sauce during the last 30 minutes of cooking for added flavor.

To achieve perfectly grilled ribs, begin by preparing your ribs–whether they’re baby back or spare ribs. Remove the membrane from the back of the ribs for better seasoning penetration and tenderness. Rub your chosen spice mix all over the ribs, ensuring an even coat. Preheat your grill to a low, indirect heat of 225°F to 250°F. This is crucial since ribs require slow cooking to break down the connective tissue, resulting in that tender, fall-off-the-bone texture.

Once the grill is ready, place the ribs bone-side down on the grill grates, away from direct flames. Cover the grill and let the ribs cook for around 3 to 4 hours. During this time, periodically spritz the ribs with apple juice or a vinegar-water mixture to keep them moist. This also helps to develop a beautiful bark on the surface. After a few hours, test for tenderness by probing with a toothpick; when it slides in easily between the bones, your ribs are almost done.

In the final 30 minutes, brush your favorite barbecue sauce generously onto the ribs, allowing it to caramelize and create a delicious glaze. Once the ribs are cooked to your desired tenderness, remove them from the grill and let them rest for about 10 minutes before slicing. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring each bite is full of flavor. Serve with additional barbecue sauce on the side and prepare for rave reviews from your family and friends!