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BBQ Grilled Baby Back Ribs

Learn how to grill baby back ribs to perfection with this foolproof recipe that delivers tender, succulent ribs with a perfect smoky flavor and caramelized exterior.
Print Recipe
Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 3 hours 30 minutes
Total Time 4 hours
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: American
Calories: 911
Ingredients Method Nutrition

Ingredients
  

  • 2 racks baby back pork ribs about 4-5 pounds total
  • 1/4 cup brown sugar packed
  • 2 tablespoons paprika
  • 1 tablespoon ground cumin
  • 1 tablespoon garlic powder
  • 1 tablespoon onion powder
  • 2 teaspoons chili powder
  • 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper
  • 1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 cup apple juice
  • 1 cup BBQ sauce
  • 2 tablespoons honey
  • 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
  • Wood chips for smoking

Method
 

  1. Remove the membrane from the underside of the ribs by sliding a butter knife under the membrane, then use a paper towel to grip and pull it off in one piece.
  2. Mix all the dry rub ingredients in a small bowl: brown sugar, paprika, cumin, garlic powder, onion powder, chili powder, cayenne, black pepper, and salt.
  3. Pat the ribs dry with paper towels, then generously coat both sides of the ribs with the spice rub. Massage it in well to ensure good adhesion.
  4. Wrap the seasoned ribs in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or up to overnight.
  5. Prepare your grill for indirect heat cooking, aiming for a temperature of 225-250°F.
  6. If using wood chips, soak them for 30 minutes, then add them to your smoker box or aluminum foil pouch with holes.
  7. Place the ribs bone-side down on the cooler side of the grill, away from direct heat.
  8. Close the lid and maintain the temperature between 225-250°F. Cook for approximately 3 hours, spritzing with apple juice every 45 minutes.
  9. Mix the BBQ sauce with honey and apple cider vinegar in a small bowl.
  10. Brush the ribs with the BBQ sauce mixture and continue cooking for another 30 minutes.
  11. The ribs are done when the internal temperature reaches 195°F, or when you can twist a bone and it starts to move freely.
  12. Remove from the grill and allow to rest for 10 minutes before slicing between the bones to serve.

Nutrition

Calories: 911kcalCarbohydrates: 21gProtein: 48gFat: 71gSaturated Fat: 21gCholesterol: 238mgSodium: 731mgFiber: 1gSugar: 16g
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