How to prepare pork ribs before putting them on the grill
Which pork ribs are best for the grill?
Ribs are one of the dishes that is almost exclusively reserved for grilling. As a result, they are always a treat whenever they get served at a summer BBQ. However, as with any BBQ meat, proper preparation will yield the best results. This post is here to provide expert recommendations on how to prepare pork ribs for grilling.
When it comes to grilling pork ribs, choosing the right cut is crucial. Look for ribs that have a good amount of meat on them, as this will ensure tender and juicy results. St. Louis ribs or baby back ribs are popular choices. The St. Louis-style ribs are taken from the belly side of the rib cage and have a perfect balance of meat and fat. Baby back ribs, on the other hand, are leaner and come from the back of the rib cage.
Before purchasing the ribs, take a close look at the colour. The meat should have a pink hue and the bones should be white, indicating freshness. Additionally, make sure there are no visible tears or signs of freezer burn.
Preparing pork ribs for grilling
Once you have selected the best pork ribs, it’s time to prepare them for grilling. Start by removing the membrane on the bone side of the ribs. Using a butter knife, gently loosen the membrane from one corner and then grip it with a paper towel and pull it off. Removing the membrane allows the seasonings and smoke to penetrate the meat, resulting in more flavourful ribs.
Next, rinse the ribs under cold water and pat them dry with paper towels. This helps remove any excess blood and ensures better adhesion of the seasonings. Trim any excess fat from the ribs but be careful not to remove all of it, as a moderate amount of fat helps keep the meat moist during grilling.
Once the ribs are clean and trimmed, it’s time to season them according to your taste preferences. After seasoning, let the ribs sit in the refrigerator for at least an hour to allow the flavours to penetrate the meat. This marinating process not only enhances the taste but also helps tenderize the ribs, resulting in a more succulent texture when grilled. Remember to take the ribs out of the refrigerator about 30 minutes before grilling to bring them to room temperature for more even cooking.
Seasoning and marinating techniques for pork ribs
There are countless seasoning options when it comes to pork ribs, so feel free to get creative with your flavours. When preparing to grill pork ribs, it’s essential to consider the marinade or rubs you’ll be using. A classic marinade for pork ribs typically includes ingredients like garlic, paprika, brown sugar, and Worcestershire sauce. This mixture not only adds flavour but also helps tenderize the meat, making it more succulent.
If you prefer a wet marinade, you can create a tangy and savoury blend using ingredients like soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, apple cider vinegar, honey, and spices. Place the ribs in a resealable plastic bag and pour the marinade over them. Seal the bag and let the ribs marinate in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight.
When it comes to marinating pork ribs, the duration plays a crucial role in infusing the meat with the desired flavours. Marinating overnight allows the ingredients to penetrate the meat deeply, resulting in a more intense taste experience. The acidity in the marinade also helps to tenderise the ribs, making them succulent and juicy when cooked.
Preparing the grill for cooking
A properly heated grill is essential for achieving perfectly cooked pork ribs. If you’re using a charcoal grill, start by lighting the charcoal and letting it burn until the coals have turned grey. Arrange the coals on one side of the grill to create indirect heat. If you prefer a gas grill, preheat it to medium heat. Make sure the grill grates are clean and well-oiled to prevent the ribs from sticking.
For extra flavour and tenderness, consider adding wood chips to your grill. Soak the chips in water for about 30 minutes, then wrap them in aluminium foil and poke a few holes in the foil. Place the foil packet directly on top of the hot coals or on the heat deflectors of a gas grill.
Once your grill is ready, it’s time to cook the pork ribs to perfection. Place the ribs on the cooler side of the grill, away from direct heat. Close the grill lid and let the ribs cook low and slow for about 3 to 4 hours, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and the meat is tender.
Remember to occasionally check the ribs and baste them with your favourite barbecue sauce during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
Expert online butchers UK
The Village Butchers specialises in providing high quality meat products for grilling. All our BBQ meat cuts are sourced from trusted and approved suppliers on farms around the UK. This means special dishes like BBQ pork ribs are guaranteed to create an unforgettable experience in terms of flavour and presentation. Having been involved in the meat butchery and packing industry for decades, we are a butchers you can trust. Contact us if you have any questions about our products or delivery options.