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Memphis BBQ Pork Ribs

Discover the best Memphis BBQ Pork Ribs recipe, inspired by a famous street food classic. Perfect for your next BBQ, or to recreate the experience of a Friday-night tailgate at home!

🕒 Prep: 15 minutes - Cook: 3 hours (includes baking time) - Total: 3 hours, 15 minutes
🍽 Servings: 2
🔥 Difficulty: Easy
🌎 Cuisine: Southern American

Allergens

None

Ingredients

  • 2 racks baby back pork ribs
  • 1 cup applewood smoked salt
  • 1/4 cup paprika
  • 2 tbsp brown sugar
  • 2 tsp ground black pepper
  • 1 tsp cayenne pepper
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp onion powder
  • 1/2 tsp dried mustard
  • 1/2 tsp ground coriander

Instructions

  1. Combine applewood smoked salt, paprika, brown sugar, black pepper, cayenne pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, dried mustard, and ground coriander in a small bowl. Mix well to combine.
  2. Remove membrane from the back of each rack of ribs using a sharp knife or the edge of a spoon.
  3. Generously apply a thin layer of the spice rub to both sides of the ribs, pressing gently to adhere.
  4. Wrap each rack of ribs tightly in aluminum foil and place on a rimmed baking sheet. Bake at 250°F for 2 hours.
  5. Increase oven temperature to 375°F. Unwrap the ribs and place them on a grill rack set over a foil lined rimmed baking sheet. Grill for 10 minutes per side, basting with your favorite BBQ sauce during the last 2 minutes of cooking.
  6. Remove from the grill and let rest for 5 minutes before slicing into individual ribs.

Chef’s Insight

The slow-cooking method ensures the ribs are tender and flavorful, while the final grilling step adds a smoky char that takes this dish to new heights.

Notes

This recipe serves two, but can easily be doubled or tripled for a larger group.

Cultural or Historical Background

Memphis-style BBQ is known for its unique blend of spices, including paprika and cayenne pepper, which gives it a distinctly bold flavor profile.