Ribs. They are a summer favorite, right? Not only are they a cooking tradition, but the taste… Yum. There’s just something about the smoky flavors, the tender texture, and the caramelized sauces.
But how do you cook them, if you want something a little bit… different? That’s a tough question, particularly if you’ve spent summer after summer cooking ribs the same way. Maybe you’re not a fan of change. Or maybe you know that everyone loves the way you cook them already. So, if it’s the latter, why change it?
Photo by Brian Wegman 🎃 on Unsplash
Changing how you cook ribs this summer could set off a new trend. It might even start off a new tradition. With that in mind, keep reading on.
1. The Low-and-Slow Oven Finish
If you want the classic barbeque tenderness flavor, but no outdoor cooking, this is the method for you.
The low-and-slow oven method is exactly what it sounds like – low and slow. Ribs are placed in an oven at a low temperature for a longer cooking duration. For the best results, the oven should be preheated to 225°F – 250°F, with the ribs then cooking between two and a half to three and a half hours.
This is barbequing simplified. Instead of constantly watching a charcoal grill, you’ll be able to relax and leave the kitchen. The oven holds a steady temperature. Plus, it’s relatively easy to clean up, without grates and smoker boxes to scrub.
2. The Classic Smoker Technique
Smoking ribs results in tender meat. And that is just delicious in summer. But how does this happen? Well, it’s because the technique melts tough connective tissue, leaving the best behind.
Again, you will use a steady temperature. This means the results are even. No burning on the outside, just a tender inside. Of course, this is assuming you’ve preheated your smoker to 225°F. Using apply, fruitwood, or hickory wood chips is encouraged to enhance the flavor.
If you do want to try the smoker technique, try a teriyaki ribs recipe. You won’t be disappointed.
3. The Bake-and-Grill Combo
Trouble deciding how to cook the ribs? Then why not try a combination?
The bake-and-grill combo is a very popular method. You first bake the ribs low and slow in the oven. This makes the meat tender – fall-of-the-bone tender. Then you finish them quickly on the grill to add a smoky char and crispy edges. That last step will even caramelize the sugars without burning them.
This method is incredibly convenient. You won’t need to stand over a smoker or an outdoor grill for hours. And let’s face it, no one wants to be doing that on a hot summer day.
To conclude, there are several different ways to cook ribs. In the summer, you’ve got the added heat to contend with, so your choices will need to be well-thought through. Fortunately, this post is here to help.