![Memphis-Style Barbecue Ribs](https://ik.imagekit.io/human/tr:w-auto,dpr-auto/recipes/memphis-style-barbecue-ribs--a29f1004-e1b3-416b-84b3-e121994e0705.png)
Recipe
Memphis-Style Barbecue Ribs
Smoky and Succulent Memphis-Style Barbecue Ribs
4.8 out of 5
Indulge in the rich flavors of Memphis-style barbecue with these mouthwatering ribs. This iconic American dish is known for its tender meat, smoky aroma, and tangy-sweet sauce.
Metadata
Preparation time
20 minutes
Cooking time
3 hours 30 minutes
Total time
3 hours 50 minutes
Yields
4 servings
Preparation difficulty
Medium
Suitable for
Gluten-free, Dairy-free, Paleo, Low-carb, Keto
Allergens
N/A
Not suitable for
Vegan, Vegetarian, Nut-free, Egg-free, Soy-free
Ingredients
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2 racks of baby back ribs (1.5 kg / 3.3 lbs) 2 racks of baby back ribs (1.5 kg / 3.3 lbs)
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For the dry rub: For the dry rub:
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2 tablespoons paprika 2 tablespoons paprika
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1 tablespoon brown sugar 1 tablespoon brown sugar
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1 tablespoon chili powder 1 tablespoon chili powder
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1 tablespoon garlic powder 1 tablespoon garlic powder
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1 tablespoon onion powder 1 tablespoon onion powder
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1 teaspoon black pepper 1 teaspoon black pepper
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1 teaspoon salt 1 teaspoon salt
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1 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional for heat) 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional for heat)
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For the barbecue sauce: For the barbecue sauce:
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1 cup ketchup 1 cup ketchup
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1/4 cup apple cider vinegar 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
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1/4 cup brown sugar 1/4 cup brown sugar
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2 tablespoons honey 2 tablespoons honey
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2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
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1 tablespoon Dijon mustard 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
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1 tablespoon paprika 1 tablespoon paprika
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1 teaspoon garlic powder 1 teaspoon garlic powder
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1 teaspoon onion powder 1 teaspoon onion powder
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1/2 teaspoon black pepper 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
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1/2 teaspoon salt 1/2 teaspoon salt
Nutrition
- Calories (kcal / KJ): 450 kcal / 1884 KJ
- Fat (total, saturated): 30g, 10g
- Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 15g, 12g
- Protein: 30g
- Fiber: 1g
- Salt: 1.5g
Preparation
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1.Preheat your grill or smoker to 120°C (250°F) for indirect cooking.
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2.In a small bowl, combine all the dry rub ingredients.
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3.Pat the ribs dry with a paper towel and remove the membrane from the back of the ribs.
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4.Generously rub the dry rub mixture all over the ribs, ensuring they are evenly coated. Wrap the ribs tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate overnight.
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5.In a saucepan, combine all the barbecue sauce ingredients. Bring to a simmer over medium heat, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for 10 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside.
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6.Place the ribs on the grill, bone side down, away from direct heat. Close the lid and let them cook for 3 hours, maintaining a temperature of 120°C (250°F).
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7.After 3 hours, brush the ribs with the barbecue sauce, then flip them over and brush the other side as well. Close the lid and cook for an additional 30 minutes.
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8.Remove the ribs from the grill and let them rest for 10 minutes before slicing. Serve with extra barbecue sauce on the side.
Treat your ingredients with care...
- Ribs — Removing the membrane from the back of the ribs allows the flavors to penetrate the meat better and results in more tender ribs.
- Dry rub — Feel free to adjust the amount of cayenne pepper in the dry rub to suit your spice preference. Add more for extra heat or omit it if you prefer a milder flavor.
- Barbecue sauce — For a spicier sauce, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a few dashes of hot sauce.
Tips & Tricks
- For a smokier flavor, use wood chips or chunks (such as hickory or applewood) in your grill or smoker.
- Basting the ribs with the barbecue sauce during the final stages of cooking adds a beautiful glaze and enhances the flavor.
- Letting the ribs rest after cooking allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in more tender and flavorful meat.
- If you don't have a grill or smoker, you can also cook the ribs in the oven at 120°C (250°F) for the same amount of time.
Serving advice
Serve the Memphis-style barbecue ribs with extra barbecue sauce on the side for dipping. Accompany them with classic sides like coleslaw, baked beans, cornbread, and pickles.
Presentation advice
Arrange the ribs on a platter, garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro, and drizzle a little extra barbecue sauce over the top for an appetizing presentation.
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