Sweet Smoky BBQ Ribs with a Tangy Sauce

Did you know that the art of barbecuing (BBQ ribs) has been refined over centuries, bridging cultural and geographical boundaries? From the camp fires of the Argentinian shepherds or Gaucho’s to the more modern smoke pits of the American South and the aromatic char grills of Australia, each region has its unique style and approach to this rustic dish. 

When cooked right, the succulent and tender meat falls off the bone, it makes BBQ ribs more than just a meal – it’s a culinary journey full of adventure and excitement, perfect for gatherings of all kinds. 

Whether marinated in a secret blend of spices or slathered in a tangy sauce, ribs have a way of bringing people together and being the star attraction at any summer BBQ. So, the next time you indulge in these flavourful delights, remember that you’re partaking in a global tradition that has been refined and perfected over generations. 

Here’s to the joy and deliciousness of ribs!

Smoky BBQ Ribs Tips

• Use good quality ribs for the best results. Beef back ribs or pork spare ribs are both good options.
•  Lamb/Goat ribs are smaller and need a little more care to avoid burning. Aim for 2 kg total weight after cutting into individual ribs.
• Marinate for at least a few hours, or ideally overnight, for maximum flavour.
• Low and slow is the key! Cook the ribs slowly to ensure they are fall-off-the-bone tender and juicy.
• Baste the ribs with your favourite BBQ sauce during the last 30 minutes of cooking for a sticky glaze.
• If you don’t have a smoker? No worries! Bake the ribs in the oven or your BBQ with the lid down for equally delicious results.

Ingredients

• 2 kg spare ribs cut into individual ribs (we are using Pork here)

Marinade

• 1/2 cup (125 ml) Brown sugar
• 1/4 cup (60 ml) Soy sauce
• 1/4 cup (60 ml) Tomato sauce
• 2 tablespoons (30 ml) Worcestershire sauce
• 1 tablespoon (15 ml) Dijon mustard
• 1 tablespoon (15 ml) Apple cider vinegar
• 1 teaspoon (5 ml) Smoked paprika powder
• 1 teaspoon (5 ml) Ground cumin powder
• 1/2 teaspoon (2.5 ml) Garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon (2.5 ml) Onion powder
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
• 1 cup BBQ sauce of your choice, for basting

Directions

Make the marinade

1. In a large bowl, whisk together the brown sugar, soy sauce, tomato sauce, Worcestershire sauce, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, smoked paprika, cumin, garlic powder, onion powder. 
2. Add a generous amount of salt, and a good grind of black pepper.

Marinate the ribs  

1. Add the ribs to the marinade and toss to coat well.
2. Cover the bowl with cling film or a secure lid.
3. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or ideally overnight. 
4. The longer they marinate, the deeper the flavour.

Get cooking 

1. Preheat your smoker to 110°C (225°F). 
2. If you don’t have a smoker, preheat your oven or BBQ to 150°C (300°F).

Prepare the ribs 

1. Remove the ribs from the marinade and discard the marinade (it’s not suitable for re-use). 
2. Pat the ribs dry with paper towels to help achieve a crispy crust.

Smoke or bake 

1. Place the ribs on the smoker grate or a baking tray in a single layer, ensuring they’re not touching. 

2. Smoke or bake for 2-3 hours or until the ribs are tender and starting to pull away from the bone when prodded with a fork.

Baste and glaze 

1. During the last 30 minutes of cooking, baste the ribs with your favourite BBQ sauce every 10 minutes. 
2. This will create a sticky, flavourful glaze.

Rest and serve 

1. Once the ribs are cooked through and beautifully glazed, remove them from the smoker or oven and let them rest for 10 minutes before serving. 
2. This allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat for maximum tenderness.

Tuck in and enjoy your delicious Smoky BBQ Ribs with a Tangy Twist! These ribs pair perfectly with sides like potato salad, coleslaw, or roasted vegetables.

Got a taste for more awesome BBQ dishes? Check out BellyBelly’s BBQ Grilled Barramundi with Lemon & Herb Butter recipe. It’s super tasty, easy to make, and perfect for impressing your mates at your next cookout. 

To find out more about BBQ Smokers, we recommend you read the following; BBQ Smokers.