Smoky BBQ Beef Back Ribs

 

Ingredients:

  • 2 racks Beef back ribs
  • 2 tbsp Smoked paprika
  • 1 tbsp Garlic powder
  • 2 tbsp Brown sugar
  • 1 tbsp Salt (or to taste)
  • 1/4 cup Olive oil (for coating)
  • Optional: BBQ sauce for glazing

Instructions:

  1. Prepare the Ribs:

    • Remove the membrane from the back of the ribs (if it's still attached). You can easily do this by sliding a knife under the membrane and pulling it off with a paper towel for a better grip.

  2. Make the Dry Rub:

    • In a small bowl, mix together the smoked paprika, garlic powder, brown sugar, and salt.

  3. Apply the Rub:

    • Rub the ribs with a light coating of olive oil to help the seasoning stick.
    • Generously apply the dry rub to both sides of the beef back ribs, pressing it in so that the spices adhere well. Let the ribs sit at room temperature for 15-20 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.

  4. Slow Cook or Smoke the Ribs:

    • For Smoking: Preheat your smoker to 225°F (107°C). Place the ribs in the smoker and smoke for about 3 to 4 hours, or until they are tender and the meat has pulled back from the bones slightly. If you’re using wood chips, try applewood or hickory for a nice, balanced smoke flavor.

    • For Slow Cooking (Oven): Preheat your oven to 275°F (135°C). Place the ribs on a baking sheet lined with foil and cover them tightly with another sheet of foil. Bake for 2.5 to 3 hours until the ribs are tender. For a smoky flavor, you can also add a couple of teaspoons of liquid smoke to the ribs before baking.

  5. Finish with BBQ Sauce (Optional):

    • If you like your ribs glazed with BBQ sauce, brush your favorite BBQ sauce on the ribs during the last 30 minutes of cooking, turning the ribs every 10 minutes to get a nice caramelized layer of sauce.

  6. Rest and Serve:

    • Once the ribs are done, remove them from the heat and let them rest for 5 minutes before slicing between the bones.
    • Serve the ribs with your favorite classic BBQ sides like coleslaw, cornbread, and baked beans.

Tips:

  • Grill Option: If you prefer grilling, you can also finish these ribs on a grill over medium heat for about 15-20 minutes after slow cooking or smoking them, basting with BBQ sauce as you go.
  • Flavors: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the rub for a little heat or a bit of ground mustard for extra tang.
  • Resting Time: Don’t skip the resting time after cooking—this allows the juices to redistribute and keeps the ribs nice and moist when you slice them.

These Smoky BBQ Beef Back Ribs are the perfect mix of tender, juicy meat with a beautiful smoky flavor. Whether smoked low and slow or baked in the oven, they’re sure to be a hit at your next BBQ. Enjoy!

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