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Savory Grilled BBQ Ribs Recipe with Homemade Zesty Dry Rub

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This recipe features tender, juicy pork spare ribs grilled low and slow with a homemade zesty dry rub that creates a crispy, flavorful crust without overpowering saltiness. Perfect for casual gatherings and easy to prepare.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 racks pork spare ribs (4–5 pounds / 1.8–2.3 kg)
  • 1/4 cup brown sugar (50 grams)
  • 2 tablespoons smoked paprika
  • 1 tablespoon garlic powder
  • 1 tablespoon onion powder
  • 1 tablespoon chili powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
  • 1 teaspoon ground black pepper
  • 1 1/2 teaspoons kosher salt
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon lemon zest
  • Optional: 1/2 teaspoon cumin
  • Optional: 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
  • Optional: 1/2 teaspoon mustard powder

Instructions

  1. Remove the silver skin membrane from the back of the ribs using a butter knife and paper towel (about 10 minutes).
  2. In a mixing bowl, combine brown sugar, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, chili powder, cayenne pepper, black pepper, salt, and lemon zest. Stir until evenly blended (5 minutes).
  3. Lightly brush both sides of the ribs with olive oil to help the rub stick and add moisture (2 minutes).
  4. Massage the dry rub generously into both sides of the ribs, pressing firmly to form a good crust (5 minutes).
  5. Preheat your grill to medium-low heat, around 275-300°F (135-150°C). If using charcoal, bank the coals to one side for indirect grilling (10 minutes).
  6. Place ribs bone-side down on the cooler side of the grill. Close the lid and cook slowly for 2 to 2.5 hours, maintaining steady heat. Rotate ribs every 30-40 minutes and check for flare-ups.
  7. Check doneness with an instant-read thermometer aiming for 190-203°F (88-95°C), or look for meat pulling away from the bones and tender texture (5 minutes).
  8. Remove ribs from the grill and wrap tightly in aluminum foil. Let rest for 15-20 minutes to lock in juices.
  9. Slice between the bones for individual ribs and serve immediately.

Notes

Remove the membrane for better flavor and tenderness. Use indirect heat and keep the grill lid closed to trap smoke and heat. Let ribs rest wrapped in foil after grilling to lock in juices. Adjust cayenne pepper to control spice level. For extra caramelization, unwrap ribs during last 10 minutes and increase heat slightly.

Nutrition

Keywords: BBQ ribs, grilled ribs, dry rub, homemade BBQ, pork ribs, smoky ribs, easy BBQ recipe, backyard grilling

Find it online: https://realityeats.com/savory-grilled-bbq-ribs-recipe-with-homemade-zesty-dry-rub-easy-and-perfect/