How to Grill Pork Ribs

It is summertime, and the smell of open barbeques around the neighborhood is filling the air with the most delicious aroma. It is early in the day so you still have time to pick up the essentials to grill some pork ribs on the barbeque. That sounds really good, but you haven’t a clue on how to cook them on the grill. It is not difficult to grill on a barbeque. That part is pretty self explanatory. However, obtaining tasty, yummy, tender ribs is another story.

1. Start by washing your hands, this is crucial to not exposing yourself to any food borne pathogens that are in the pork. Get a pot to boil the ribs in, and make sure it is of an adequate size, which depends on the number of ribs, and whether they are boneless, or on the rack. It is usually best to boil them first, since this makes them extra tender. You may choose to marinate them in your marinade of choice, or favorite barbeque sauce. If you choose to boil them, season the pot of water with salt, pepper, garlic, pork seasoning, or sage. These are the best seasonings to complement grilled pork ribs. If you do choose to marinate them, you may season them with the same seasonings, but add a small amount of olive oil to distribute the seasonings evenly. Lemon juice is also very beneficial, it is acidic, and tenderizes meat well. Boil them for about ½ hour at a full rolling boil.

After you have marinated or boiled your ribs, start your grill so that it will be up to an even temperature when you are finished with this step. It is important, if you boiled the ribs, to season them again accordingly. It is a wise idea to keep the seasoning near the grill, as well as all the cooking utensils you will need so that they are within easy reach. Use tongs to place the ribs onto a platter, and head out to the grill.

The grill should be warm enough now, and it is really best to cook them slowly at a lower temperature. This prevents the juices from running and keeps the flavor in the ribs. Place them on the grill; if you are using barbeque sauce, brush some on the side that is facing upwards. Depending on the grill, it will take about 5-10 minutes to cook each side. The ribs will start to get brown, and caramelize. This makes them extra tasty. When one side is done, flip it over and season the other side. Many times seasoning falls off, so applying a bit more ensures they will have the flavor you desire. Allow that side to cook up another 5-10 minutes. Some ribs, if cooked separately, will be done before others. In order to make sure your ribs are done, cut one to make sure that it is not spongy or real pink. If the meat is browner, and has a smoother texture, it is fully cooked. Take them off the grill. Place them on a platter, and serve with all the other yummy summer treats, such as potato salad, coleslaw, baked beans, and fresh rolls sure you have extra napkins, though. You are about to taste the juiciest (and messiest!) pork ribs.