Barbecued short ribs are a mouthwatering dish that combines the rich flavors of beef with the smoky notes from slow cooking over an open flame. Follow these detailed steps to create your perfect batch, optimized for SEO and easy readability.
#### Ingredients:
- 2 pounds beef short ribs
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon chili powder (optional)
- 3 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 4 cups barbecue sauce
#### Equipment:
- Large pan or roasting dish
- Aluminum foil
- Charcoal grill or smoker
### Step-by-Step Guide:
#### 1. Prepare the Short Ribs
- **Cleaning:** Rinse the short ribs under cold water and pat them dry with paper towels.
- **Marinating:** In a bowl, mix salt, pepper, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and chili powder (if using). Rub this mixture all over the short ribs to ensure even coating. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight.
#### 2. Preheat Your Grill
- **Preheating:** Place your charcoal grill on medium heat or preheat your smoker to around 225°F (107°C). If you're using a gas grill, set it to indirect heat.
#### 3. Cook the Short Ribs Slowly
- **Searing:** Heat a large pan over high heat and add 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil. Once hot, place the short ribs skin-side down in the pan. Sear for about 5-7 minutes until they develop a nice crust.
- **Transfer to Grill:** Carefully transfer the seared short ribs to your grill or smoker.
#### 4. Slow Cook the Ribs
- **First Smoke:** Place the short ribs, fat side up, in the preheated grill or smoker. Cover and let them smoke for about 2-3 hours until they are tender enough to pull apart easily with a fork.
- **Basting:** After an hour of smoking, start basting the ribs with barbecue sauce every 15-20 minutes. This adds flavor and keeps the meat moist.
#### 5. Finish Cooking
- **Final Smoke:** Once the ribs are tender, remove them from the grill or smoker. Cover loosely with aluminum foil to prevent drying out.
- **Grill Finish (Optional):** For a final smoky char, place the wrapped ribs back on the grill for about 10-15 minutes, turning occasionally.
#### 6. Serve and Enjoy
- **Resting:** Let the short ribs rest for at least 10 minutes before slicing.
- **Serving:** Slice the meat against the grain and serve with any remaining sauce drizzled on top.
### Tips for Optimal Results:
- **Choosing Ribs:** Ensure you have true beef short ribs, not pork or lamb versions.
- **Smoke Time:** Adjust cooking time based on your equipment and desired doneness.
- **Sauce Application:** Apply the barbecue sauce during the last hour of smoking to avoid burning it.
### Conclusion
Barbecued short ribs are a delicious addition to any barbecue menu. By following these detailed steps, you can create perfectly cooked beef that’s both tender and flavorful. Enjoy your cooking!