smoked pork ribs recipe

smoked pork ribs recipe

The Best smoked pork ribs recipe

I’ve been making this smoked pork ribs recipe for years, and it’s always a hit with my family and friends. The dish originated from traditional American barbecue, where slow-cooked meats are the star of the show.

The key technique here is smoking, which involves cooking the ribs over low heat for a long period of time to break down the connective tissue and infuse them with a rich, smoky flavor. This recipe uses a combination of brown sugar, paprika, and cumin to give the ribs a deep, savory flavor that’s hard to resist.

I love serving these ribs at family gatherings and barbecues, as they’re easy to make in large quantities and can be enjoyed by everyone. Plus, they’re relatively healthy compared to other barbecue recipes, as they’re made with lean pork and a minimal amount of added sugar.

My kids love helping me prep the ribs by sprinkling them with seasonings and adjusting the smoker’s temperature. It’s a fun activity that gets them involved in the cooking process and teaches them about the importance of patience and slow cooking.

Smoked Pork Ribs

Smoked Pork Ribs

4.5 from 792 votes

These smoked pork ribs are tender, juicy, and packed with smoky flavor. A simple dry rub and low-and-slow smoking create a perfect bark and fall-off-the-bone texture.

Prep Time20 mins
Cook Time5 hours
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time5 hours 20 mins
Servings: 4Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 650 kcal

🥘Ingredients

For the Ribs

2 racks pork spare ribs (about 4-5 lbs total)
1/4 cup yellow mustard
1/4 cup apple juice (for spritzing)

For the Dry Rub

1/4 cup brown sugar
2 tablespoons smoked paprika
1 tablespoon garlic powder
1 tablespoon onion powder
1 teaspoon black pepper
1 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)

For the 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

👨‍🍳Directions

1Prepare the smoker for indirect heat at 225°F using hickory or apple wood chips for smoke.
2While the smoker heats, remove the membrane from the back of each rib rack by sliding a knife under it and pulling it off.
3Pat the ribs dry with paper towels and brush a thin layer of yellow mustard over all sides.
4Apply the dry rub generously, pressing it into the meat, and let the ribs rest at room temperature for 15 minutes.
5Place the ribs bone-side down on the smoker grates and smoke for 3 hours, maintaining a steady 225°F.
6Spritz the ribs with apple juice every 45 minutes to keep them moist and build the bark.
7After 3 hours, wrap each rack tightly in aluminum foil with a splash of apple juice and return to the smoker.
8Continue cooking for 1.
5 to 2 hours until the internal temperature reaches 203°F and the meat pulls back from the bones by about 1/4 inch.
9While the ribs cook, combine all sauce ingredients in a small saucepan and simmer over medium heat for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
10Remove from heat and set aside.
11Unwrap the ribs and brush a thin layer of sauce on both sides.
12Place them back on the smoker (unwrapped) for 15-20 minutes to set the glaze.
13The sauce should be tacky and slightly caramelized when done.
14Remove the ribs from the smoker and let them rest for 10 minutes before slicing between the bones.
15Serve with extra sauce on the side.

🔧Equipment

Smoker (charcoal or pellet)
Wood chips (hickory or apple)
Aluminum foil
Spray bottle
Instant-read thermometer
Basting brush

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 650 kcal🧈Total Fat: 45g💛Saturated Fat: 16g❤️Cholesterol: 180mg🧂Sodium: 1200mg🌾Total Carbs: 20g🥦Dietary Fiber: 1g🍬Sugars: 16g🥩Protein: 40g

📝Notes

For best results, use a leave-in thermometer to monitor smoker temperature. If you prefer a milder rub, reduce or omit the cayenne pepper. The ribs can be made a day ahead and reheated on the smoker or in a 300°F oven wrapped in foil.

Watch Video Of How Smoked Pork Ribs Works

This smoked pork ribs recipe is always a good idea for any occasion – whether it’s a family gathering or just a Tuesday dinner.

The key is to keep things simple and let the flavors speak for themselves.

You can serve these ribs with all sorts of sides, like coleslaw or baked beans, but honestly, they’re delicious on their own too.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Smoked Pork Ribs

Q: What type of wood should I use for smoking the ribs?

The type of wood you use will greatly affect the flavor of your ribs. For a traditional American barbecue flavor, I recommend using hickory or mesquite wood. These types of wood have a strong, smoky flavor that pairs perfectly with the pork. You can also experiment with other types of wood, such as apple or cherry, for a sweeter and more subtle flavor.

Q: How long does it take to smoke the ribs?

The time it takes to smoke the ribs will depend on your smoker’s temperature and the size of your ribs. As a general rule of thumb, you’ll want to smoke the ribs at 225-250°F (110-120°C) for 4-6 hours or until they reach an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C). You can also use a meat thermometer to check if they’re cooked through.

Q: Can I make this recipe in my oven?

While it’s technically possible to make this recipe in your oven, I wouldn’t recommend it. The low heat and even cooking that comes with smoking is essential for breaking down the connective tissue in the meat and infusing it with flavor. If you do decide to make this recipe in your oven, I recommend using a slow cooker or crock pot instead.

Q: How do I store leftover smoked pork ribs?

You can store leftover smoked pork ribs in an airtight container in your refrigerator for up to three days or freeze them for up to two months. When reheating, make sure to reheat them slowly over low heat until they’re warmed through.

Q: Can I add other ingredients to this recipe?

While this recipe is quite straightforward, you can certainly experiment with different ingredients to create unique flavor profiles. Some ideas include adding diced onions or bell peppers to the rub mixture or using different types of spices like cumin or coriander.

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