Get ready to transform your backyard barbecue game with the most incredible Memphis Style Pork Ribs that will have your guests begging for your secret recipe! These fall-off-the-bone, perfectly seasoned ribs are a true celebration of Southern culinary tradition, combining bold spices, slow-cooking techniques, and that irresistible sticky barbecue glaze that defines authentic Memphis-style barbecue. Whether you're a grilling novice or a seasoned pitmaster, this recipe will elevate your cooking skills and transport your taste buds straight to the heart of Tennessee's legendary barbecue scene.
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 3 hrs
Total Time: 3 hrs 15 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 2 racks of pork ribs
- 1/4 cup paprika
- 2 tbsp brown sugar
- 1 tbsp black pepper
- 1 tbsp salt
- 1 tbsp chili powder
- 1 cup barbecue sauce
Instructions
- Remove the membrane from the back of the ribs by sliding a knife under the thin membrane and peeling it off completely to ensure tender meat.
- In a mixing bowl, combine paprika, brown sugar, black pepper, salt, and chili powder to create a dry rub spice mixture.
- Pat the ribs dry with paper towels and generously coat both sides of the racks with the prepared spice rub, massaging the seasoning into the meat thoroughly.
- Preheat your smoker or oven to 225°F (107°C), ensuring a consistent low temperature for slow cooking.
- Place the seasoned ribs bone-side down on the grill or smoker rack, using indirect heat to prevent burning.
- Cook the ribs slowly for approximately 3 hours, maintaining a consistent temperature and occasionally spraying with water to keep moisture.
- During the last 30 minutes of cooking, brush the ribs generously with barbecue sauce, allowing it to caramelize and create a sticky, flavorful exterior.
- Check the ribs for doneness by ensuring the meat has pulled back from the bones and can be easily pierced with a fork.
- Remove the ribs from heat and let them rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing between the bones.
- Serve hot with additional barbecue sauce on the side and your favorite side dishes.
Tips
- Always remove the membrane from the back of the ribs - this is crucial for tender, melt-in-your-mouth meat that separates easily from the bone.
- Invest time in creating a robust dry rub - the combination of spices is what gives Memphis-style ribs their signature flavor. Don't be afraid to adjust the spice blend to your taste.
- Low and slow is the golden rule of great barbecue. Maintain a consistent temperature around 225°F to ensure the meat becomes incredibly tender without drying out.
- Use a spray bottle with water or apple juice during cooking to keep the ribs moist and prevent them from becoming too dry.
- Let the ribs rest after cooking - this allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring each bite is succulent and flavorful.
- If you don't have a smoker, you can achieve similar results in a conventional oven using a low temperature and a water pan to maintain moisture.
- For an extra layer of flavor, consider using wood chips like hickory or apple wood during smoking to add a subtle smoky essence to your ribs.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 550kcal
Carbohydrates: 15g
Protein: 45g
Fat: 38g
Saturated Fat: 14g
Cholesterol: 145mg
