These fall-off-the-bone ribs are a barbecue lover’s dream! Grilled to perfection, they are tender, juicy, and packed with flavor. The best part? They’ll have your friends begging for more!
Every time I make these ribs, there’s a little dance party in the kitchen! I love serving them with a side of coleslaw and corn on the cob—it makes for a perfect summer meal!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Ribs: Baby back ribs are lean and tender, while spare ribs have more meat and fat. If you prefer a leaner option, consider using turkey ribs or even beef ribs for a different flavor.
Apple Cider Vinegar: This adds a tangy flavor that helps tenderize the meat. If you don’t have it, white vinegar or a mix of lemon juice and water can be a good substitute.
Spices: The blend of garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, and cayenne can be adapted. For a milder flavor, skip the cayenne. You can also add your favorite herbs like thyme or rosemary for added depth.
BBQ Sauce: Choose any BBQ sauce you love! For a healthier option, you can use homemade BBQ sauce or a sugar-free version if you’re watching your sugar intake.
How Do I Properly Prepare the Ribs for Cooking?
Removing the membrane from the back of the ribs is crucial for tenderness. This thin layer can trap moisture and prevent seasoning from soaking in. Follow these steps:
- Flip the ribs over so the bone side is facing up.
- Use a sharp knife to gently lift a corner of the membrane. Once it’s up, grab it with a paper towel for a better grip.
- Pull the membrane off in one smooth motion. It should come off relatively easily. If it tears, just start at a different corner.
Once the membrane is gone, rinse the ribs under cold water and pat them dry. Tender ribs start with a clean slate!
How to Make Fall Off The Bone Ribs On The Grill
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Ribs:
- 3 lbs pork ribs (baby back or spare ribs)
For the Marinade:
- 1 cup apple cider vinegar
- 1 cup water
- 2 tbsp olive oil
For the Dry Rub:
- 1 tbsp garlic powder
- 1 tbsp onion powder
- 1 tbsp smoked paprika
- 1 tbsp brown sugar
- 2 tsp black pepper
- 2 tsp salt
- 1 tsp cayenne pepper (optional for heat)
For the BBQ Sauce:
- 1 cup BBQ sauce (your choice)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 4 hours from start to finish. You’ll need about 30 minutes for preparation and 2.5 to 3 hours for cooking on the grill. Plus, don’t forget to let the ribs rest for 10-15 minutes before serving. Trust me, this waits make all the difference!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Ribs:
Start by removing the thin membrane from the back of the ribs. This step is really important because it helps the ribs absorb more flavor and become more tender. Rinse the ribs under cold water and gently pat them dry with paper towels.
2. Make the Rub:
In a small bowl, combine the garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, brown sugar, black pepper, salt, and cayenne pepper (if you’re feeling spicy!). Mix them together well to make a flavorful rub.
3. Season the Ribs:
Drizzle olive oil over the ribs and rub it in with your hands. Now it’s time to apply that delicious rub! Generously coat both sides of the ribs with the spice mixture, pressing it firmly into the meat to maximize flavor.
4. Prep for Grilling:
Grab a large grilling pan and combine the apple cider vinegar and water in it. Place the seasoned ribs on the grill with the bone side facing down. Arrange them over indirect heat, which means if you’re using a charcoal grill, keep the coals to one side. This helps avoid direct flames. Close the lid and aim to maintain a steady grill temperature of about 225°F to 250°F.
5. Cook the Ribs:
Let your ribs cook undisturbed for about 2.5 to 3 hours. Maintain the temperature throughout the cooking process. If you like the flavor of smoke, feel free to add some wood chips (like hickory, apple, or cherry) to your grill for added smokiness!
6. Saucing the Ribs:
After 2.5 hours, it’s time to brush on some BBQ sauce! Coat the ribs generously and cook them for another 30 minutes. For an extra sticky glaze, repeat adding more BBQ sauce right at the end.
7. Check for Doneness:
The ribs are ready when the meat has pulled back from the bones and feels super tender. You should be able to easily pull the bones apart or they should nearly fall off the bone. Perfectly cooked ribs should look irresistible!
8. Rest and Serve:
Once done, take the ribs off the grill and let them rest for about 10-15 minutes. This allows the juices to settle for even more flavor. Slice them up, serve with extra BBQ sauce on the side, and enjoy your delicious, tender ribs!
Can I Use Other Cuts of Meat for This Recipe?
Absolutely! While this recipe is perfect for pork ribs (baby back or spare ribs), you can also use beef ribs or even lamb ribs. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary, so make sure to adjust accordingly based on the thickness and type of meat.
What If I Don’t Have Apple Cider Vinegar?
No problem! You can substitute apple cider vinegar with white vinegar or even lemon juice for a similar acidity. If you want a sweeter note, try using balsamic vinegar or a combination of equal parts vinegar with some apple juice or regular cider instead.
How to Store Leftover Ribs?
Once cooled, store any leftover ribs in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. For longer storage, you can freeze the ribs wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and foil for up to 2-3 months. When ready to eat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat in the oven or grill to keep them tender.
Can I Cook These Ribs In An Oven Instead?
Yes, you can cook these ribs in the oven! Preheat your oven to 275°F (135°C) and place the seasoned ribs on a baking sheet lined with foil. Cook for about 2.5 to 3 hours, basting with apple cider vinegar mixture and BBQ sauce as needed, until tender. Finish them off under the broiler for a few minutes to get that caramelized glaze!
