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Smoked Spare Ribs

Smoked Spare Ribs That Will Wow Your Taste Buds Every Time

Smoked spare ribs are a delicious and versatile dish that promises a juicy flavor explosion and crowd-pleaser appeal.
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Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 6 hours
Resting Time 15 minutes
Total Time 6 hours 45 minutes
Servings: 4 ribs
Course: Lunch
Cuisine: American, BBQ
Calories: 300
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Ribs
  • 2 lbs Pork Ribs Fresh, well-trimmed ribs like baby back or St. Louis-style
For the Dry Rub
  • 1/4 cup Brown Sugar Adjust to taste
  • 2 tbsp Paprika Smoked paprika enhances smoky flavor
  • 1 tbsp Garlic Powder
  • 1 tbsp Onion Powder
  • 1/2 tsp Cayenne Pepper Adjust to heat preference
  • 1 tbsp Salt Kosher salt recommended
  • 1/2 tsp Black Pepper Freshly cracked
For Spritzing
  • 1/2 cup Apple Cider Vinegar Or water or light vinegar alternative
For Cooking
  • 2 tbsp Oil Neutral oil like canola
  • 2 cups Wood for Smoking Hickory, apple, cherry, or pecan; soaked
For Optional Glaze
  • 1 cup BBQ Sauce Your favorite bottled or homemade

Equipment

  • Smoker
  • Grill
  • Oven

Method
 

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Smoked Spare Ribs
  1. Begin by removing the tough membrane from the back of the pork ribs using a butter knife. Pat the ribs dry with a paper towel and set them aside.
  2. Generously coat both sides of the ribs with your homemade dry rub mixture, ensuring every inch is covered.
  3. Preheat your smoker, grill, or oven to a steady temperature of 200-225°F. Soak your choice of wood in water for several hours.
  4. Place the seasoned ribs bone-side down in the smoker or on the grill. Maintain low cooking temperature and spritz with apple cider vinegar every hour.
  5. Near the end of cooking, brush on your BBQ sauce for a sweet glaze that caramelizes beautifully. Let this glaze set while the ribs finish cooking.

Nutrition

Serving: 1rackCalories: 300kcalCarbohydrates: 20gProtein: 25gFat: 15gSaturated Fat: 5gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 8gCholesterol: 75mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 600mgFiber: 1gSugar: 4gCalcium: 20mgIron: 2mg

Notes

Consistent temperature and moisture are key to juicy smoked spare ribs. Rest for 10-15 minutes before serving to enhance flavors.

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