Memphis Dry Rub Ribs Recipe (Crusty, tender, and flavorful Memphis-style Ribs)

Unlike traditional saucy ribs, these Memphis Dry Rub Ribs are coated in a flavorful dry rub that forms a crust during cooking, resulting in tender, juicy ribs bursting with smoky and savory flavors.

Preparation and Cooking Time

• Preparation Time: 15 minutes
• Marinating Time: 4-12 hours
• Cooking Time: 4-6 hours

Number of Servings

• Servings: 4-6

List of Ingredients

• 2 racks of pork spare ribs
• 1/4 cup brown sugar
• 2 tablespoons paprika
• 1 tablespoon garlic powder
• 1 tablespoon onion powder
• 1 tablespoon chili powder
• 1 tablespoon ground cumin
• 1 tablespoon ground black pepper
• 1 tablespoon kosher salt
• 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for extra heat)
• Barbecue sauce (optional, for serving)

Directions

1. Remove the membrane from the back of the ribs by sliding a butter knife under the membrane and lifting it away from the ribs. Use a paper towel to grip the membrane and pull it off in one piece.
2. In a small bowl, combine the brown sugar, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, chili powder, ground cumin, black pepper, kosher salt, and cayenne pepper (if using) to create the dry rub.
3. Rub the dry rub mixture generously over both sides of the ribs, pressing it into the meat to ensure adhesion. If time allows, cover the ribs and let them marinate in the refrigerator for 4-12 hours to enhance flavor.
4. Preheat your smoker or grill to 225°F (107°C) using indirect heat, with a water pan positioned underneath the ribs to maintain moisture.
5. Place the ribs on the smoker or grill, meat side up, and close the lid. Smoke the ribs for 4-6 hours, or until they are tender and the meat starts to pull away from the bones.
6. Once the ribs are done, remove them from the smoker or grill and let them rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing.
7. Slice the ribs between the bones and serve immediately. If desired, serve with barbecue sauce on the side for dipping.

Nutrition Information

• Calories: Approximately 400 per serving
• Total Fat: 30g
• Saturated Fat: 10g
• Cholesterol: 120mg
• Sodium: 1000mg
• Total Carbohydrates: 10g
• Dietary Fiber: 1g
• Sugars: 8g
• Protein: 25g

Historical and Cultural Significance

Memphis Dry Rub Ribs are a staple of Memphis barbecue, which is renowned for its emphasis on dry rubs and slow smoking techniques. This style of ribs is beloved by locals and visitors alike, with many barbecue joints in Memphis proudly serving up their own variations of this classic dish.

Special Tips

• For the best results, use spare ribs which have more meat and fat compared to baby back ribs.
• Adjust the amount of cayenne pepper in the dry rub to suit your personal preference for heat.
• To achieve a more intense smoke flavor, consider using a combination of hickory and cherry wood chips for smoking the ribs.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve the Memphis dry rub ribs with baked beans, coleslaw, potato salad, and cornbread.
• Offer a variety of barbecue sauces on the side, including Memphis-style vinegar-based sauce, sweet and tangy sauce, and spicy mustard-based sauce.

READ:Wonderful and Delicious BBQ Recipes from around the World