How to Cook Pork Spare Ribs on Big Green Egg

Are you ready to take your grilling skills to the next level?

In this article, we’ll show you how to cook pork spare ribs on the Big Green Egg. With its unique design and temperature control, the Big Green Egg is the perfect tool for achieving perfectly cooked, fall-off-the-bone ribs.

We’ll guide you through selecting the right ribs, preparing them for cooking, seasoning them to perfection, and setting up the Big Green Egg for the ultimate grilling experience.

Get ready to impress your friends and family with mouthwatering ribs that will leave them begging for more.

Selecting the Right Ribs

You’ll want to make sure you’re selecting the right ribs for your pork spare rib recipe. Choosing the best cuts of ribs is crucial to achieving the perfect flavor and tenderness.

There are two main types of pork ribs: baby back ribs and St. Louis-style ribs. Baby back ribs, also known as loin ribs, are smaller and leaner than St. Louis-style ribs. They are taken from the top of the rib cage, closer to the spine. On the other hand, St. Louis-style ribs are larger, meatier, and have more fat. They are cut from the lower side of the rib cage.

When it comes to cooking techniques, the choice of ribs will determine the best method. Baby back ribs are more delicate and cook faster, making them ideal for grilling or smoking. They are tender and have a sweeter flavor. St. Louis-style ribs, with their higher fat content, benefit from longer cooking times and can be braised, slow-cooked, or even oven-roasted. These techniques allow the fat to render and the meat to become tender and juicy.

Preparing the Ribs for Cooking

Get the seasoning ready by mixing together salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika.

Preparing the ribs for cooking is an important step to ensure they turn out flavorful and tender. Start by removing the membrane from the back of the ribs. This can be done by using a sharp knife to lift and loosen the membrane, then grabbing it with a paper towel and pulling it off.

Once the membrane is removed, it’s time to marinate the ribs. Choose a marinade that complements the flavors you enjoy. You can use a store-bought marinade or make your own by combining ingredients like soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, brown sugar, and spices. Place the ribs in a large resealable bag or a shallow dish and pour the marinade over them. Make sure the ribs are fully coated and let them marinate in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours, or overnight for even more flavor.

Before cooking the ribs, remove them from the marinade and pat them dry with paper towels. This will help the seasoning stick better and prevent excess moisture on the surface. Now, it’s time to apply the seasoning mix you prepared earlier. Sprinkle the seasoning evenly over the ribs, making sure to cover all sides.

Seasoning the Ribs

Once the ribs are marinated, it’s time to sprinkle the seasoning mix evenly over them for added flavor. Marinating is a great technique to enhance the taste and tenderness of your pork spare ribs. Before applying the seasoning, make sure to remove the ribs from the marinade and pat them dry with a paper towel. This will help the seasoning adhere better to the meat.

When it comes to seasoning options, there are plenty of alternatives to choose from. Traditional barbecue rubs are a popular choice, typically made with a blend of spices like paprika, brown sugar, garlic powder, and chili powder. These rubs add a smoky and slightly sweet flavor to the ribs.

If you’re looking for something different, you can try a citrus-based marinade for a tangy and refreshing taste. Alternatively, a teriyaki glaze can give your ribs a savory and slightly sweet Asian-inspired flavor.

No matter which seasoning option you choose, the key is to apply it evenly to ensure every bite is packed with flavor. Gently pat the seasoning mix onto the ribs, making sure to cover all sides.

Setting up the Big Green Egg for Cooking

To properly set up your grill for cooking, make sure to carefully arrange the charcoal and light it using a chimney starter. Grilling techniques and temperature control are crucial when it comes to achieving perfectly cooked food on the Big Green Egg.

Begin by arranging the charcoal in a pyramid shape at the bottom of the grill. This allows for even heat distribution throughout the cooking process. Once the charcoal is in place, use a chimney starter to light it. This method ensures that the charcoal lights evenly and quickly without the need for lighter fluid, which can leave an unpleasant taste on your food.

As the charcoal begins to ignite, you can adjust the temperature by opening or closing the vents on the Big Green Egg. Opening the vents allows for more oxygen flow, increasing the heat, while closing them reduces the heat. Remember, temperature control is key to achieving the desired doneness for your pork spare ribs.

Cooking the Ribs on the Big Green Egg

When the temperature reaches the desired level, you’ll be ready to place the seasoned ribs on the grill. Cooking pork spare ribs on the Big Green Egg is all about mastering the right cooking techniques and choosing the perfect marinade options.

To achieve tender and juicy ribs, it’s essential to use indirect heat. Set up your Big Green Egg for indirect cooking by placing a plate setter or heat deflector under the grates. This will create a barrier between the heat source and the ribs, allowing them to cook slowly and evenly.

Now, let’s talk about marinade options. There are countless marinade recipes available, but a classic combination of flavors like soy sauce, garlic, brown sugar, and Worcestershire sauce can work wonders. Make sure to marinate the ribs for at least a few hours or overnight to allow the flavors to penetrate the meat.

Once the grill is preheated and the ribs are marinated, place them bone-side down on the grill grates. Close the lid and let them cook for about 3 to 4 hours at a temperature of 225°F to 250°F. Remember to maintain a steady temperature and avoid opening the lid too often to keep the heat consistent.

After the initial cooking time, you can start basting the ribs with your favorite barbecue sauce every 20 minutes. This will add a delicious glaze and enhance the flavors even more. When the ribs are tender and the sauce has caramelized, remove them from the grill and let them rest for a few minutes before serving.

Serving and Enjoying the Perfectly Cooked Ribs

After removing the perfectly cooked ribs from the grill, you can savor the mouthwatering flavors and tender texture by pairing them with your favorite side dishes. Here are some serving techniques and ideas to enhance your dining experience:

1. Classic Barbecue Pairings:

   • Coleslaw: The cool and creamy texture of coleslaw complements the smoky and savory flavors of the ribs.
   • Baked Beans: The sweet and tangy flavors of baked beans provide a perfect contrast to the rich and meaty ribs.
   • Cornbread: The slightly sweet and crumbly cornbread is a delicious accompaniment to the ribs, adding a touch of Southern charm to your meal.

2. Fresh and Light Options:

   • Grilled Vegetables: The charred and smoky flavors of grilled vegetables, like bell peppers, zucchini, and eggplant, provide a refreshing contrast to the richness of the ribs.
   • Green Salad: A crisp and refreshing green salad with a tangy vinaigrette dressing adds a burst of freshness to balance out the flavors of the ribs.
   • Fruit Salsa: A vibrant and fruity salsa, made with diced mango, pineapple, and jalapenos, adds a tropical twist to the ribs and brings a burst of flavor.

3. Comfort Food Favorites:

   • Mac and Cheese: The creamy and cheesy goodness of mac and cheese pairs perfectly with the ribs, creating the ultimate comfort food combination.
   • Mashed Potatoes: The smooth and buttery mashed potatoes provide a comforting and indulgent side dish that complements the rich flavors of the ribs.
   • Corn on the Cob: The sweet and juicy corn on the cob adds a pop of freshness and a hint of sweetness to balance out the savory ribs.

Conclusion

Now that you’ve learned how to cook pork spare ribs on the Big Green Egg, you can confidently impress your friends and family with perfectly cooked ribs.

Remember to select the right ribs, prepare them properly, and season them to your liking.

Setting up the Big Green Egg for cooking is key, and once you’ve done that, the cooking process is a breeze.

Serve up those delicious ribs and enjoy the mouthwatering flavors you’ve created.

Happy cooking!