Perfectly cooked ribs for a weekend party

Perfectly cooked ribs for a weekend party? I've got you covered! Here's a step-by-step guide to help you achieve tender, fall-off-the-bone ribs that will impress your guests:

Rib Selection and Preparation

• Choose a rack of pork ribs (St. Louis-style or baby back ribs work well).
• Remove the membrane from the back of the ribs (this will help the rub penetrate and the meat tenderize).
• Trim any excess fat and cut the ribs into a uniform size.

Dry Rub and Seasoning

• Mix together a dry rub consisting of:
  • 2 tablespoons brown sugar
  • 2 tablespoons smoked paprika
  • 1 tablespoon chili powder
  • 1 tablespoon garlic powder
  • 1 tablespoon onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• Apply the dry rub evenly to both sides of the ribs, making sure to coat them thoroughly.

Low and Slow Cooking

• Preheat your smoker or grill to 225°F (110°C).
• Place the ribs in the smoker or grill, bone side down.
• Close the lid and cook for 4-5 hours, or until the ribs reach an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C).
• After 4 hours, start checking the ribs for tenderness. You can use a thermometer to check the internal temperature or perform the "bend test": gently lift the edge of the rib and if it bends easily, it's done.

Finishing Touches

• During the last 30 minutes of cooking, brush the ribs with a mixture of:
  • 1/4 cup barbecue sauce
  • 2 tablespoons honey
  • 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
• Use a mop or brush to apply the glaze evenly to both sides of the ribs.
• Remove the ribs from the heat and let them rest for 10-15 minutes before serving.

Tips and Variations

• To add some extra flavor, you can add wood chips or chunks to your smoker or grill during the cooking process. Popular options include hickory, apple, and cherry.
• If you prefer a sweeter rib, you can increase the amount of brown sugar in the dry rub or add a drizzle of honey during the last 10 minutes of cooking.
• For a spicy kick, you can add some diced jalapeños or serrano peppers to the dry rub or glaze.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve the ribs with additional barbecue sauce on the side for guests to drizzle as desired.
• Offer a variety of toppings, such as diced onions, pickles, and coleslaw, to let guests customize their rib experience.
• Consider setting up a rib-themed station with all the fixings, including cornbread, baked beans, and potato salad.

With these steps and tips, you'll be well on your way to serving up perfectly cooked ribs that will impress your weekend party guests. Happy grilling!