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Delicious Labor Day BBQ ribs, perfectly grilled with a smoky crust

Labor Day BBQ Ribs

Learn the secrets to perfectly smoked Labor Day BBQ Ribs. This recipe will guide you through simple steps to achieve tender, flavorful ribs that are sure to be a hit at your holiday gathering.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 5 hours
Total Time 5 hours 15 minutes
Servings: 4 people
Calories: 850
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Ribs
  • 2 racks pork spare ribs
  • 1/4 cup yellow mustard
For the Rub
  • 1/2 cup dark brown sugar
  • 1/4 cup paprika
  • 2 tablespoons kosher salt
  • 1 tablespoon black pepper
  • 1 tablespoon garlic powder

Equipment

  • Smoker
  • Aluminum Foil

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Remove the membrane from the back of each rib rack, then pat the ribs dry with paper towels.
  2. Spread a thin layer of mustard over both sides of the ribs; this acts as a binder for the rub.
  3. Combine all rub ingredients in a bowl, then generously apply the rub to both sides of the ribs, ensuring full coverage.
Smoking
  1. Preheat your smoker to 250°F (120°C) and add your preferred wood chips or chunks.
  2. Place the ribs directly on the grates, meaty side up, and smoke for about 3 hours, or until a nice bark forms and the internal temperature reaches around 165°F (74°C).
Wrapping
  1. Remove the ribs from the smoker and place each rack on a large piece of heavy-duty aluminum foil.
  2. Pour a bit of apple juice or cider vinegar over each rack, then tightly wrap the ribs in the foil and return to the smoker.
  3. Continue cooking for another 2 hours, or until the ribs are tender and the internal temperature reaches 200-205°F (93-96°C).
Resting and Serving
  1. Carefully remove the ribs from the foil, unwrap them, and let them rest for 15-20 minutes before slicing and serving.

Notes

For extra flavor, consider spritzing the ribs every hour during the smoking phase with a mixture of apple cider vinegar and apple juice.