Ensuring you can enjoy incredibly delicious and juicy ribs, knowing how to cook St Louis ribs on gas grill is a must for anyone who enjoys BBQ. Whether you are an experienced home chef or a beginner, mastering this technique will elevate your grilling game significantly. We’ll take a deep dive into the ins and outs of grilling these sumptuous ribs, including preparations, cooking times, tips and tricks, and much more.
Understanding St. Louis Ribs
Before diving into the grilling process, it’s essential to understand what St. Louis ribs are. St. Louis ribs, also known as St. Louis-style ribs, are cut from the belly of the pig, right below the baby back ribs. They have more fat, leading to richer flavors and a juicier bite. This cut is known for its rectangular shape, even size, and meatiness, making them ideal for barbecuing and slow cook methods. Getting familiar with the uniqueness of St. Louis ribs will set you on the right path to perfecting your grilling technique.
Necessary Equipment and Ingredients
Ingredients:
- 1 rack of St. Louis-style ribs
- 1 cup of BBQ sauce
- Dry rub (paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, brown sugar, salt, and black pepper)
- 1/2 cup of apple juice
- Olive oil
Equipment:
Step-by-Step Guide to Cooking St. Louis Ribs on a Gas Grill
Step 1: Preparation
Begin by preparing your ribs with a flavorful dry rub. Combine paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, brown sugar, salt, and black pepper in a bowl. Ensure the ribs are dried thoroughly with paper towels before applying a light coat of olive oil. This will help the rub adhere to the ribs and create a nice crust during cooking. Generously sprinkle the dry rub over the ribs and pat it down so it sticks well. For added flavor, you can let the ribs marinate in the fridge for a few hours or overnight.
Step 2: Preheat and Prepare the Grill
While the ribs are marinating, you can prepare your gas grill. Aim for a temperature range between 225F and 250F for slow and even cooking. Turn on one burner to medium-high heat while leaving the other burner off to create an indirect heat zone. If your grill has multiple burners, only light the ones on one side. Place a drip pan filled with water or apple juice under the unlit side to catch drippings and maintain moisture during cooking.
Step 3: Cooking the Ribs
Once your grill is preheated, place the ribs on the unlit side for indirect cooking. Close the lid to allow the grill to function as an oven. Cook the ribs for about 2-3 hours, maintaining a consistent temperature. Halfway through the cooking process, you can baste the ribs with apple juice or apple cider vinegar to keep them moist and add extra flavor. Avoid opening the lid too frequently, as this will cause temperature fluctuations and prolong the cooking time.
Step 4: Wrapping the Ribs
After 2-3 hours of cooking, it’s time to wrap the ribs. Remove them from the grill and place them on a large sheet of aluminum foil. Brush them generously with BBQ sauce and wrap them tightly in the foil. This step, known as the ‘Texas Crutch,’ helps to tenderize the ribs by trapping steam and heat inside the foil packet. Return the wrapped ribs to the grill and cook for another hour. The ribs should be tender and juicy, with the meat pulling away slightly from the bones.
Step 5: Unwrapping and Searing
Once the ribs are tender, you can unwrap them and return them to the grill for the final sear. Preheat the grill to medium-high heat and place the ribs directly over the heat source. Brush the ribs with your favorite BBQ sauce and cook for an additional 5-10 minutes on each side, creating a nice caramelized crust. Be attentive during this step to avoid burning the sauce.
Step 6: Resting and Serving
After grilling, allow the ribs to rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing. This helps redistribute the juices, ensuring each bite is full of flavor. Use a sharp knife to cut between the bones, serving up perfectly cooked St. Louis ribs. Pair with coleslaw, cornbread, or your favorite BBQ sides for a complete meal.
Tips and Tricks for Perfect Grilled Ribs
Achieving the ideal texture and flavor for St. Louis ribs on a gas grill requires a few tips and tricks. Firstly, always keep an eye on the grill temperature, as maintaining a steady temperature is crucial for even cooking. Additionally, soaking wood chips and placing them in a smoker box can add a delightful smoky flavor to your ribs. Basting the ribs occasionally with apple juice or a vinegar-based solution during cooking will help to keep them moist and enhance their flavor.
Cleaning Up After the BBQ
Cleaning up after a BBQ session is essential to keep your grill and other equipment in good condition. Allow the grill to cool slightly before scrubbing the grates with a grill brush to remove any stuck-on residue. Use a cleaning solution specifically designed for grills to ensure a thorough clean. Additionally, applying a cookware cleaner to your gas grill and other kitchen tools will ensure they stay in top shape for your next grilling session. Don’t forget to condition your cutting board as well for longevity.
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