These fall off the bone ribs are a summer favorite! Juicy and tender, they are coated in a sweet and tangy barbecue sauce that makes your taste buds dance.
Trust me, there’s something magical about ribs that slide right off the bone. I love serving them at backyard cookouts—everyone leaves with messy fingers and big smiles! 🍖😁
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Baby Back Ribs: These are the star of the dish, tender and meaty. If you can’t find baby back ribs, spare ribs are a good alternative. Just keep in mind they may take a bit longer to cook.
Dry Rub: You can use store-bought dry rub for convenience, but making your own can be fun! A mix of brown sugar, paprika, salt, pepper, and garlic powder can create a flavorful homemade rub. Experiment with spices based on your taste!
Barbecue Sauce: While your favorite store-bought barbecue sauce works great, consider making your own too. A simple mix of ketchup, vinegar, brown sugar, and spices can be delicious. You can also swap in a sugar-free sauce for a lighter option.
Apple Cider Vinegar: This adds moisture and tang. If you don’t have it, white vinegar or even beer can work too. Just keep the moisture in mind!
How Do I Properly Prepare Ribs for Grilling?
Getting your ribs ready is key to a great end result. One main step is removing the membrane on the back. This helps the flavors get in and the ribs become super tender. Here’s how to do it:
- Look for the thin film on the back of the ribs. You can often slip a knife under it to get started.
- Grab a paper towel for a better grip, and gently pull it off in one motion.
Once that’s done, rinse your ribs under cold water, and dry them with a paper towel before moving on to seasoning. This helps them cook evenly and will make them delicious!
How to Make Fall Off The Bone Ribs On The Grill
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Ribs:
- 3 racks of baby back ribs
- 1 cup of dry rub (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 cup barbecue sauce (plus extra for glazing)
- Apple cider vinegar (for moisture)
- Aluminum foil
- Wood chips for smoking (optional, e.g., hickory or applewood)
- Salt and pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 4 to 5 hours total, including preparation and cooking time. You’ll spend about 30 minutes prepping the ribs, and then let them cook slowly on the grill for a few hours. It’s worth the wait for these delicious, tender ribs!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preparing the Ribs:
Start by removing the membrane from the back of the ribs. This helps the flavors soak in and makes the ribs more tender. Rinse the ribs under cold water and use paper towels to pat them dry. This step is important for a great flavor!
2. Applying the Dry Rub:
Generously coat both sides of the ribs with your dry rub. Make sure to rub it in well, covering all areas. Let the ribs sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes. This allows the flavors of the rub to really get into the meat.
3. Preheating the Grill:
Now, it’s time to get your grill ready! Preheat it to a low temperature, aiming for around 225°F to 250°F. If you’re using a charcoal grill, set it up for indirect cooking by placing the coals on one side and leaving the other side empty. For gas grills, adjust the burners to keep that low temp.
4. Adding Moisture:
To keep the ribs juicy while cooking, place a pan filled with apple cider vinegar on the grill near the ribs. The steam from the vinegar will keep everything moist and delicious!
5. Smoking the Ribs:
If you want to add that extra smoky flavor, soak your wood chips in water for about 30 minutes, and then add them to the grill. Place the ribs bone-side down on the grill grate over the side without coals or direct heat.
6. Cooking the Ribs:
Close the grill lid and let the ribs cook low and slow for about 3 to 4 hours. Make sure to occasionally check in and spritz the ribs with more apple cider vinegar. This splashes some moisture and helps them stay tender!
7. Wrapping in Foil:
After about 3 hours of cooking, carefully take the ribs off the grill and wrap them tightly in aluminum foil. This steaming process will help make the ribs fall-off-the-bone tender! Return the wrapped ribs to the grill and cook for another 1 to 1.5 hours.
8. Glazing with Barbecue Sauce:
Once your ribs are nice and tender, remove them from the foil. Brush barbecue sauce on both sides of the ribs and return them to the grill uncovered. Cook for an additional 15-30 minutes, letting the sauce caramelize and create a delicious glaze.
9. Serve:
Once your ribs look glazed and tender, take them off the grill. Let them rest for a few minutes before slicing between the bones. Serve with extra barbecue sauce on the side, and enjoy your mouthwatering fall-off-the-bone ribs!
Can I Use Spare Ribs Instead of Baby Back Ribs?
Absolutely! Spare ribs are a great alternative and will still turn out delicious. Just be aware that they may take a bit longer to cook, usually an additional 30 minutes to an hour, due to their larger size and thickness. Adjust your cooking time accordingly for the best results.
What If I Don’t Have Apple Cider Vinegar?
No worries! You can substitute apple cider vinegar with other acidic liquids like white vinegar, lemon juice, or even beer. Each will provide moisture and a slight tang that complements the ribs beautifully. Just keep in mind that flavors might vary slightly!
How to Store Leftover Ribs?
Store any leftover ribs in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, wrap them in foil and heat them in a preheated oven at 250°F for about 20-30 minutes until warmed through. You can also add a splash of barbecue sauce or apple cider vinegar while reheating to keep them moist!
Can I Finish Cooking These Ribs in the Oven?
Yes, you can! If the weather isn’t suitable for grilling or you just prefer using the oven, wrap the ribs in foil and bake them at 300°F for about 2.5 to 3 hours. After that, glaze with barbecue sauce and broil for a few minutes to caramelize. They’ll still be fall-off-the-bone tender!
