Jul 4, 2024

4th of July Patriotic BBQ Ribs Recipe

Perfectly grilled, fall-off-the-bone BBQ ribs for a patriotic celebration.
4th of July Patriotic BBQ Ribs Recipe

Celebrate Independence Day with these mouth-watering Patriotic BBQ Ribs that are sure to be a hit at any 4th of July gathering! Grilling ribs to perfection can be simpler than you think with our detailed step-by-step instructions. Patriotic BBQ Ribs combine a flavorful dry rub with a tangy, homemade BBQ sauce that brings out the best in each bite. The slow cooking method ensures that the ribs are incredibly tender and full of flavorful smokiness. Follow along as we guide you through the preparation and grilling process to create a memorable holiday feast!

Ingredients

  • 2 racks of baby back ribs
  • 1/4 cup brown sugar
  • 2 tbsp smoked paprika
  • 1 tbsp garlic powder
  • 1 tbsp onion powder
  • 1 tbsp chili powder
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1 tsp black pepper
  • 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper (optional for extra heat)
  • 1 cup apple cider vinegar
  • 1 cup BBQ sauce (store-bought or homemade)
  • Aluminum foil
  • Cooking spray

Nutrition

Calories: ~700 calories

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Ribs: Remove the membrane from the back of the ribs by sliding a knife under it and peeling it off. This will help the seasoning penetrate better and make the ribs more tender.
  2. Prepare the Dry Rub: In a medium bowl, mix together the brown sugar, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, chili powder, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper. Generously rub this mixture all over the ribs, ensuring they are completely coated.
  3. Marinate: Wrap the seasoned ribs in aluminum foil and place them in the refrigerator to marinate for at least 2 hours, preferably overnight for the best flavor.
  4. Preheat the Grill: Preheat your grill to medium heat (about 300°F). If using a charcoal grill, set it up for indirect grilling by placing the coals on one side of the grill.
  5. Cook the Ribs: Remove the ribs from the refrigerator and let them come to room temperature. Spray the grill grates with cooking spray to prevent sticking, then place the ribs on the grill, bone side down. Close the lid and cook for 2.5 hours.
  6. Baste with Vinegar: Every 30 minutes, baste the ribs with apple cider vinegar to keep them moist and add a tangy flavor.
  7. Apply BBQ Sauce: During the last 30 minutes of cooking, brush the ribs with your favorite BBQ sauce. This will create a sticky and delicious glaze on the ribs.
  8. Check for Doneness: The ribs are done when they are tender and the meat easily pulls away from the bone. If necessary, you can cook them for an additional 30 minutes.
  9. Rest the Ribs: Remove the ribs from the grill and let them rest for 10 minutes, still wrapped in foil, before slicing. This helps to retain the juices.
  10. Serve: Slice the ribs between the bones and serve with extra BBQ sauce on the side. Enjoy your 4th of July celebration with these delicious ribs!

Enjoy your Patriotic BBQ Ribs as a centerpiece for your Independence Day get-together. Here are a few tips for achieving perfect ribs: Always remove the membrane to ensure the flavors penetrate the meat. Make sure to baste with vinegar to keep the ribs moist during the long cooking process. Wrap leftovers in foil and store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days for a quick reheat on the grill or in the oven. Happy grilling and happy 4th of July!