These Memphis-style pork side ribs are juicy and full of flavor. With a mix of spices and a sweet glaze, you’ll want to dig right in!
I love how the meat falls off the bone. It’s a real crowd-pleaser. Plus, these ribs are great for a weekend BBQ with friends—just remember to bring the napkins! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Side Ribs: Look for meaty racks of pork side ribs. They provide a good balance of meat and fat, making them juicy and flavorful. If you can’t find them, spare ribs or baby back ribs can work too, but they will have a slightly different texture.
Paprika: This adds a nice color and sweet flavor. If you want a smoky touch, smoked paprika is a great substitute. If you don’t have paprika at all, chili powder can also do the trick, although it will be a bit spicier.
Barbecue Sauce: Memphis-style sauce is sweet and tangy. If you’re watching sugar intake, you can use sugar-free barbecue sauce or make your own with tomato sauce, vinegar, and spices. Homemade gives more control over flavors!
How Can I Effectively Remove the Membrane from Ribs?
Removing the membrane on the back of the ribs can make a big difference in tenderness. It’s a thin, silver skin that can be tough. Here’s how to do it:
- Use a knife to gently lift the edge of the membrane at one end of the rack.
- Grab it with a paper towel for a better grip, and carefully pull it away from the meat. It should come off in one piece.
- If it tears, just keep lifting and pulling until it’s all removed.
This step helps the rub penetrate better and results in more tender meat. It’s worth taking the time!
Easy Memphis-Style Pork Side Ribs
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 racks pork side ribs (about 4-5 pounds total)
- 1/4 cup paprika
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon chili powder
- 1 tablespoon garlic powder
- 1 tablespoon onion powder
- 2 teaspoons salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional for heat)
- 1 cup Memphis-style barbecue sauce (store-bought or homemade)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 3-3.5 hours in total. You’ll need about 15-20 minutes for prep work, including making the dry rub and getting everything ready. Then, the ribs will bake for 2.5 to 3 hours in the oven, followed by a quick grilling session of about 10 minutes. Perfect for weekend cooking!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prepare:
Start by preheating your oven to 275°F (135°C). Line a large baking sheet with foil or parchment paper for easy cleanup later. This will be where you bake the ribs.
2. Make the Dry Rub:
In a small bowl, mix together the paprika, brown sugar, chili powder, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper (if you like some heat). This is your flavorful dry rub that will give the ribs a delicious crust!
3. Prepare the Ribs:
Check the back of the ribs for a thin membrane. If it’s still there, carefully remove it by lifting one edge with a knife and pulling it off with a paper towel for grip. Pat the ribs dry with paper towels—this helps the seasoning stick better.
4. Apply the Rub:
Generously coat the ribs with the spice mixture, making sure to press it into the meat well. You want every bite to be full of flavor!
5. Bake the Ribs:
Place the ribs meat side up on the prepared baking sheet and cover them tightly with aluminum foil. Bake in your preheated oven for 2.5 to 3 hours. You know they’re ready when the meat is tender and pulls back from the bones easily.
6. Grill for Perfection:
Once baked, remove the ribs from the oven and preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Brush a generous layer of Memphis-style barbecue sauce over the ribs.
7. Finish on the Grill:
Place the ribs on the grill. Grill for about 5-10 minutes, turning them occasionally and basting with more sauce. You’ll want to see some nice caramelization on the sauce.
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Take the ribs off the grill and let them rest for a few minutes. This helps keep the juices in. Then, cut between the bones to serve. Enjoy with some extra barbecue sauce on the side!
These tender, smoky, and sweet Memphis-style pork side ribs are perfect for any gathering. Enjoy! 😋
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use a Different Type of Ribs?
Absolutely! While this recipe calls for pork side ribs, spare ribs or baby back ribs can be used as substitutes. Keep in mind that cooking times may vary slightly, so check for tenderness as you go along.
What If I Don’t Have Paprika?
No worries! If you don’t have paprika, you can substitute it with an equal amount of chili powder for some added heat and flavor. Alternatively, smoked paprika can enhance the smoky taste of your ribs.
Can I Prepare the Ribs Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can season the ribs with the dry rub up to 24 hours in advance and store them covered in the fridge. This allows the flavors to marinate and infuse into the meat, making them even tastier!
How Do I Store Leftover Ribs?
Store any leftover ribs in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat them gently in the oven at a low temperature or on the grill, brushing with more barbecue sauce to keep them moist and flavorful.
