Best BBQ Ribs Ever – Recipe from AmazingRibs.com | BBQFOOD4U

When it comes to mastering the art of barbecue, ribs reign supreme. One recipe that stands above the rest is Meathead's "Last Meal Ribs" from AmazingRibs.com. This guide will show you how to prepare and cook these irresistible BBQ ribs, step by step. With practical advice, helpful tips, and a commitment to perfection, you’ll be serving up tender, smoky ribs that will leave your guests in awe.

Whether you’re a seasoned pitmaster or a backyard BBQ enthusiast, this recipe has all the elements to become your go-to. Let's dive into the ultimate guide to cooking the best BBQ ribs ever!

Why Meathead's Ribs Are a Must-Try

Meathead's "Last Meal Ribs" are celebrated for their balance of smoky flavor, tender texture, and perfectly seasoned bark. By following this method, you'll learn to:

• Prepare ribs like a pro, from trimming to seasoning.
• Use the two-zone cooking technique for consistent results.
• Infuse your ribs with layers of flavor using smoke, rubs, and sauce.

With detailed steps and expert techniques, even beginners can achieve mouthwatering results.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Before you start, gather the following essentials:

For the Ribs:

• 2 racks of spare ribs (or baby back ribs).
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt.
• 4 tablespoons Meathead’s Memphis Dust (homemade or store-bought).

For Cooking:

• Kingsford briquettes or lump charcoal.
• Applewood chips for smoking.
• 2 cups of water (for the drip pan).

For the Sauce (Optional):

• Your favorite BBQ sauce for glazing.

Step 1: Prepping the Ribs

1. Remove the Membrane

• Flip the ribs over to the bone side.
• Use a butter knife to loosen the membrane at the first bone.
• Grab the membrane with a paper towel for grip and peel it off in one motion.

Removing the membrane ensures that flavors penetrate the meat and prevents a chewy texture.

2. Trim the Ribs

• Trim excess fat and uneven edges for uniform cooking.
• Cut to create a St. Louis-style rack by slicing off the rib tips.

This step helps the ribs cook evenly and look professional when served.

3. Dry Brine the Ribs

• Sprinkle half a teaspoon of kosher salt on each side.
• Wrap the ribs in foil or plastic wrap and refrigerate for two hours.

Dry brining enhances the ribs' natural flavor and helps retain moisture during cooking.

Step 2: Seasoning the Ribs

1. Apply a Base Layer

• Brush a light coat of vegetable oil on both sides of the ribs.

This helps the seasoning stick better and promotes a beautiful crust.

2. Add Memphis Dust

• Generously sprinkle Meathead’s Memphis Dust on both sides.
• Massage the rub into the meat for even coverage.

After seasoning, wrap the ribs again and refrigerate overnight. This step allows the flavors to penetrate deeply into the meat.

Step 3: Setting Up Your BBQ

1. Two-Zone Cooking

• Arrange your grill for two-zone indirect cooking.
• Place a water drip pan on the side where the ribs will cook. Fill it with 2 cups of water.

2. Preheat the Grill

• Light a chimney of Kingsford briquettes.
• Add the hot coals to the opposite side of the grill from the drip pan.
• Adjust the dampers to maintain a steady temperature of 225°F.

3. Add Smoke

• Place 4 ounces of applewood chips directly on the hot coals.

The two-zone setup ensures gentle, indirect heat, while the applewood imparts a mild, sweet smokiness.

Step 4: Cooking the Ribs

1. Start Smoking

• Unwrap the ribs and place them bone-side down over the water pan.
• Position the grill lid so the vent is directly over the ribs.

This setup ensures even smoke distribution and keeps the ribs juicy.

2. Monitor Temperature

• Use a digital thermometer to keep the grill at 225°F.
• Add briquettes as needed to maintain heat.

3. Add More Smoke

• After 30 minutes, add another 4 ounces of applewood chips.

Continue smoking for about 3 hours, checking periodically to ensure the temperature and smoke levels are steady.

Step 5: Testing for Doneness

After 5 hours of cooking:

• Use the "bend test": Lift the ribs with tongs; if the meat starts to crack when bent, they're ready.
• Check the bark: It should be dark and firm, but not burnt.

Perfectly cooked ribs should have a slight pull when you bite into them, rather than falling off the bone entirely.

Step 6: Glazing the Ribs

1. Add BBQ Sauce

• Brush a thin layer of your favorite BBQ sauce on both sides of the ribs.

2. Caramelize the Sauce

• Move the ribs over direct heat for 30 seconds per side.

This step creates a sticky, flavorful glaze that elevates the ribs to the next level.

Practical Tips for Perfect Ribs

1. Keep It Low and Slow: Maintaining a consistent temperature of 225°F is key to tender ribs.
2. Choose the Right Wood: Applewood adds a subtle sweetness, but you can experiment with hickory or cherry for different flavors.
3. Use a Water Pan: Adding moisture prevents the ribs from drying out during the long cook time.
4. Don’t Skip the Rest: Let the ribs rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing to allow the juices to redistribute.

Serving Suggestions

Pair your ribs with classic BBQ sides like:

• Coleslaw: Its tangy crunch balances the smoky richness of the ribs.
• Cornbread: Sweet and buttery, it’s a perfect complement.
• Grilled Vegetables: Add a pop of color and nutrition to your meal.

For drinks, a cold beer or a glass of iced tea completes the BBQ experience.