Memphis Dry Rub Ribs
Authentic Memphis-style pork ribs coated in a robust dry spice rub, cooked low and slow until incredibly tender. This preparation emphasizes the natural flavor of the pork, with sauce served on the side if desired.
🧂 Ingredients
- 2 racks Spare ribs(Look for racks that are relatively uniform in thickness for even cooking. Trim any excess fat if desired.)
- 3 tbsp Paprika(Sweet or smoked paprika can be used depending on preference.)
- 2 tbsp Brown sugar(Light or dark brown sugar will work.)
- 1 tbsp Cumin
- 1 tbsp Garlic powder
- 1 tsp Cayenne pepper(Adjust to your spice preference. Can omit for milder ribs.)
- 1 tbsp Salt(Kosher salt is recommended.)
- 1 tbsp Black pepper(Freshly ground black pepper is best.)
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
Prepare the Ribs: Locate the thin, papery membrane on the bone side of each rack of ribs. Using a butter knife or spoon, gently lift an edge of the membrane. Grasp the lifted edge with a paper towel (for better grip) and carefully peel the membrane off the entire rack. Discard the membrane. Pat the ribs thoroughly dry with paper towels.
⏱️ 10 minutes - 2
Mix the Dry Rub: In a small bowl, combine the paprika, brown sugar, cumin, garlic powder, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper. Whisk until well incorporated. This blend should be fragrant and evenly mixed.
⏱️ 5 minutes - 3
Apply the Rub: Generously sprinkle the dry rub mixture all over both sides of the prepared ribs. Use your hands to pat the rub firmly onto the meat, ensuring an even coating. Don't be shy; a good layer of rub is key to developing flavor and a nice crust.
⏱️ 10 minutes - 4
Rest and Marinate: Place the rubbed ribs on a wire rack set inside a baking sheet or directly on a clean plate. Cover loosely with plastic wrap or foil. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or preferably overnight (up to 24 hours). This allows the salt to penetrate the meat and the flavors to meld.
⏱️ 2-24 hours - 5
Preheat Smoker/Grill: Prepare your smoker or grill for indirect cooking. Aim for a consistent temperature of 225°F (107°C). If using a charcoal grill, arrange coals to one side and place a drip pan filled with water on the other side. If using a smoker, follow its specific instructions for maintaining temperature.
⏱️ 30 minutes - 6
Smoke the Ribs: Place the rubbed ribs bone-side down on the indirect heat side of your smoker or grill. Close the lid and maintain the target temperature. Smoke for 4-5 hours. The ribs are done when the meat has pulled back from the ends of the bones, the surface has a deep reddish-brown color, and a probe inserted into the thickest part of the meat meets very little resistance (around 195-205°F / 90-96°C internal temperature).
⏱️ 4-5 hours - 7
Rest the Ribs: Once cooked, carefully remove the ribs from the smoker or grill. Tent them loosely with foil and let them rest for at least 15-20 minutes before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, ensuring maximum tenderness and moisture.
⏱️ 15-20 minutes - 8
Serve: Slice the ribs between the bones into individual portions. Serve immediately. Traditionally, Memphis dry rub ribs are served without sauce, allowing the smoky, spiced flavor of the pork to be the star. Offer your favorite BBQ sauce on the side for those who prefer it.
⏱️ 5 minutes
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓For extra flavor, you can add a spritz of apple cider vinegar or apple juice every hour during the last 2 hours of smoking.
- ✓The 'crust' or 'bark' formed by the rub and smoke should be dark, slightly crisp, and caramelized, not burnt.
- ✓Ensure your smoker or grill temperature remains as consistent as possible for the best results.
- ✓Don't skip the resting step; it's crucial for juicy ribs.
✨ Twist Ideas
Inspiration for your own version of this recipe
- Mustard Base: Before applying the dry rub, lightly brush the ribs with yellow mustard. This acts as a binder for the rub and adds a subtle tang.
- Wet Ribs: During the last 30-60 minutes of cooking, brush the ribs with your favorite BBQ sauce and continue cooking until the sauce is caramelized and sticky.