Smoked Ribs Rub: The Perfect Recipe for Flavorful and Tender Baby Back Ribs

This recipe, provided by Traeger Kitchen, outlines a method for making smoked baby back ribs seasoned with a savory, spicy, and sweet rub. The ribs are smoked over hickory wood and finished with Traeger 'Que BBQ sauce.

Ingredients:

• Rub:
  • 1/4 Cup dark brown sugar
  • 1/4 Cup sea salt
  • 1/4 Cup pimentón (Spanish smoked paprika)
  • 2 Tablespoons freshly ground black pepper
  • 2 Teaspoons granulated onion
  • 2 Teaspoons granulated garlic
  • 1 Teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1/2 Teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1/4 Teaspoon ground nutmeg
• Baby Back Ribs:
  • 4 racks (2-2 1/2 lbs each) of baby back ribs
  • 2 Cups Traeger 'Que BBQ Sauce

Preparation Steps:

1. Preheat Grill:

   • Set the Traeger temperature to 250°F and preheat with the lid closed for 15 minutes.

2. Prepare Rub:

   • Mix the rub ingredients (brown sugar, salt, pimentón, pepper, onion, garlic, cumin, cinnamon, nutmeg) in a small bowl.

3. Prep Ribs:

   • Remove the thin membrane from the bone side of the ribs if not already done.
   • Sprinkle the rub over both sides of the ribs (about 1 1/2 tablespoons per side).

4. Smoking:

   • Insert a probe into the center of a rack of ribs, avoiding the bones.
   • Place the ribs bone-side down on the grill grates.
   • Smoke until the internal temperature reaches 203°F and the ribs are browned and tender.

5. Increase Temperature:

   • Remove ribs from the grill.
   • Increase the Traeger temperature to 375°F.

6. Apply Sauce:

   • Brush both sides of the ribs with Traeger 'Que BBQ Sauce.
   • Return ribs to the grill and cook for 6-8 minutes per side until the sauce is set.

7. Serving:

   • Remove the ribs from the grill.
   • Cut into halves or individual ribs and enjoy.

 Smoky Spice-Rubbed Baby Back Ribs

Nothing spells a perfect summer barbecue quite like a rack of smoky, spice-rubbed baby back ribs. These succulent ribs, infused with a harmonious blend of sweet, spicy, and smoky flavors, are sure to be the star of your next outdoor gathering. This detailed guide will walk you through the process of preparing and smoking baby back ribs to perfection using a Traeger grill.

The Perfect Rub

The magic of these ribs lies in the spice rub. This blend combines dark brown sugar, sea salt, Spanish smoked paprika (pimentón), freshly ground black pepper, granulated onion and garlic, ground cumin, cinnamon, and a hint of nutmeg. Each ingredient plays a vital role: the brown sugar adds sweetness and caramelization, the pimentón provides a smoky depth, while the cumin and cinnamon introduce an exotic warmth. The result is a rub that enhances the natural flavors of the pork without overpowering them.

Preparing the Ribs

Before applying the rub, ensure that the ribs are prepped correctly. Removing the thin membrane on the bone-side of the ribs is crucial as it allows the rub and smoke to penetrate the meat more effectively, resulting in a more flavorful and tender outcome.

Smoking: Patience is Key

Smoking ribs is a process that cannot be rushed. Preheat your Traeger grill to 250°F and allow it to reach the right temperature with the lid closed. This ensures that the heat is evenly distributed. Once the grill is ready, place the ribs bone-side down and let them smoke slowly. The key to perfect ribs is maintaining a consistent temperature and allowing the ribs to cook until they reach an internal temperature of 203°F. This low and slow method ensures that the meat becomes tender and juicy.

Finishing Touches: The Perfect Sauce

Once the ribs have been smoked, it’s time to crank up the heat to 375°F and add the finishing touch—Traeger 'Que BBQ Sauce. Brush a generous amount of the sauce on both sides of the ribs and return them to the grill. This final step caramelizes the sauce, creating a sticky, flavorful glaze that clings to each rib.

Serving and Enjoying

After the sauce has set, remove the ribs from the grill and let them rest for a few minutes. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, ensuring each bite is moist and flavorful. Cut the ribs into halves or individual pieces and serve them hot.

Whether you’re hosting a summer cookout or looking to impress your family with a delicious homemade meal, these smoky spice-rubbed baby back ribs are sure to be a hit. The combination of a well-balanced rub, slow smoking, and a sweet, tangy barbecue sauce creates ribs that are truly irresistible.