How to Cook Beef Back Ribs
Beef back ribs are a delicious cut of meat that can be intimidating to cook for the inexperienced. However, with the right techniques and tools, anyone can prepare a mouthwatering dish. In this article, we will provide you with a step-by-step guide on how to cook beef back ribs to perfection.
Choosing the Right Ribs
Before you start cooking, it is essential to choose the right ribs. When you buy beef back ribs, you have two options: bone-in or boneless. Bone-in ribs will result in more flavor as the bone contributes flavor to the meat. However, boneless ribs are more accessible to eat and cook faster. Regardless of your preference, ensure you get a good quality cut without excessive amounts of fat.
Preparing the Ribs
Before cooking, remove the silver skin on the underside of the ribs as it can be tough when cooked. Then, season the ribs with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and any other seasonings you prefer. Allow the ribs to reach room temperature by taking them out of the fridge an hour before cooking. This will help the meat to cook evenly.
Preheat your oven to 275°F (135°C) or your grill to medium heat.
Oven Method
To cook the beef back ribs in the oven, place them bone-side down in a roasting pan. Add a half-cup of beef broth to the pan to keep the meat moist and flavorful. Cover the, pan with aluminum foil, and place it in the oven for three to four hours. Cooking time will depend on the thickness of the ribs, and since oven temperatures vary, check on them periodically.
After the first two hours of cooking, start basting the ribs with barbecue sauce every 30 minutes. Baking them uncovered in the last 15 minutes will give the ribs a nice crust while still remaining moist. The internal temperature of the meat should be around 185°F (85°C) when done.
Grilling Method
If you prefer grilling, start by heating the grill to medium heat. Place the beef back ribs bone-side down on the grill and cook for 45 minutes on each side. Keep an eye on them, so they don’t burn, and adjust the heat if necessary.
During the last 15 minutes of cooking, baste the ribs with barbecue sauce every five minutes. Once done, take the meat off the grill and let it rest for ten minutes before slicing.
Smoking Method
Smoking lends beef back ribs a unique flavor that is hard to beat. Start by heating your smoker to 225°F (107°C), maintaining a consistent temperature throughout cooking. You can use a mixture of wood chips, such as hickory, mesquite, or applewood, to add some smoky goodness to your ribs.
Place the ribs on the smoker, bone-side down, and let them cook for two to three hours. Then, wrap the ribs in foil and place them back on the smoker to cook for another one to two hours. The foil helps to keep the moisture inside the meat, so it doesn’t dry out.
Towards the end of cooking, remove the foil and place the ribs back on the smoker. Baste with barbecue sauce every 20 minutes and cook uncovered for the last 30 minutes. The internal temperature should be around 185°F (85°C) when done.
Serving and Enjoying
Once the ribs are done cooking, remove them from the heat and let them rest for ten minutes before slicing. Serve with roasted vegetables, potatoes, or have them as the centerpiece of your meal. Beef back ribs pair well with red wine, beer, or a refreshing cocktail.
Conclusion
Cooking beef back ribs can be a fun and rewarding experience. Whether you choose to grill, smoke, or oven cook them, the key to preparing delicious beef back ribs lies in the preparation, cooking time, and seasonings used. Follow these tips, and you’re sure to prepare the perfect beef back ribs each time.
Frequently Asked Questions – How To Cook Beef Back Ribs
1. What are Beef Back Ribs?
Beef Back Ribs are a cut of beef that comes from the section of the cow behind the shoulder blade, but in front of the loin. They are meaty and flavorful, with the characteristic rib bone running along one side.
2. How do I prepare Beef Back Ribs for cooking?
Before cooking, you may want to remove the membrane from the bone side of the ribs, as it can become chewy. To do this, grab a corner of the membrane with a paper towel and gently pull it off. You can also trim any excess fat from the ribs.
3. What is the best method for cooking Beef Back Ribs?
There are several methods for cooking beef back ribs, including smoking, grilling, and oven-baking. However, the most important factors are low and slow cooking for a tender and juicy result. For the oven method, preheat to 275°F, place ribs on a rack in a baking dish, cover with foil and cook for about 3-4 hours. For grilling, cook over indirect heat for 2-3 hours, turning occasionally. Always ensure the internal temperature reaches 145°F before serving.
[page-generator-pro-related-links post_status=”publish” radius=”0″ output_type=”list_links” limit=”2″ columns=”2″ delimiter=”, ” link_title=”%title%” link_anchor_title=”%title%” link_display_order=”link_title,featured_image,link_description” link_display_alignment=”vertical” orderby=”name” order=”asc”]
