Country style ribs are a delicious cut of pork that can be grilled, smoked, or baked to perfection with the right techniques. Though they contain less fat than traditional spare ribs, country style ribs have a wonderfully tender texture and robust flavor when prepared properly. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know to make mouthwatering country style ribs at home, from choosing the best ribs to mastering cooking methods, sauces, rubs, and more. With a little time and effort, you’ll be an expert at barbecuing incredible country style ribs to impress family and friends.
Choosing High Quality Country Style Ribs
The first key step to perfectly barbecued country style ribs is selecting high quality, fresh ribs. Here are tips for picking the best ribs:
Buy Boneless or Bone-In
You can find country style ribs sold bone-in or boneless. Bone-in ribs have more flavor during cooking, but boneless ribs are easier to eat. Choose based on your cooking method and preferences.
Select Meaty, Thick Cut Ribs
Look for ribs that are at least 1/2 inch thick with lots of meat and minimal fat or gristle. Thicker ribs hold up better on the grill or smoker.
Check for Uniform Marbling
Some marbling or fat running through the meat keeps ribs tender and juicy. But too much fat results in greasy ribs.
Avoid Ribs with Dry Spots or Discoloration
Fresh ribs should look moist and have a uniform color. Pass on ribs with dry patches or odd mottled color patterns.
Source from a Trusted Butcher or Grocer
Buy ribs from a quality grocer or butcher you trust for freshness. Avoid pre-packed ribs at the supermarket, which may be old.
Consider Certified Humane or Pasture Raised Pork
Opt for ribs that are humanely raised and antibiotic-free if you can. Pasture raised pork offers a richer flavor.
Preparing Ribs Before Cooking
Proper prep ensures ribs cook evenly and absorb flavors. Here’s how to get country style ribs ready for the grill or smoker:
Trim Excess Fat
Use a sharp knife to trim thick areas of hard fat from the ribs. Leave about 1⁄4 inch of fat for moisture.
Remove Membrane
The thin membrane on the underside can make ribs tough. Slide a knife under it to remove.
Pat Dry
Blot ribs with paper towels to remove any moisture for better browning.
Apply a Dry Rub
Coat ribs all over with a dry spice rub to add flavor and aid browning.
Let Sit at Room Temperature
Let ribs sit out for 20-30 minutes after rubbing to bring them closer to cooking temp.
Chill Overnight
For more flavor, rub ribs and refrigerate uncovered 8-12 hours before cooking.
Mastering the Cooking Methods for Tender, Juicy Ribs
Country style ribs can be prepared using a variety of cooking techniques – here are tips for whipping up fall-off-the-bone tender, mouthwatering ribs using the most popular methods:
Oven Baked Country Style Ribs
Baking gives ribs a caramelized crust and tender interior. Preheat oven to 300°F. Place ribs meaty-side up on a rack in a roasting pan. Bake 2-3 hours untiltender. For smoky flavor, add soaked woodchips to the pan. Brush ribswith sauce the last 30 minutes.
Grilled Country Style Ribs
The grill imparts delicious smoky char. Prepare a two-zone fire with high and low heat areas. Grill over high heat 4-5 minutes per side to sear. Move to low heat, close the lid, and cook 1-1.5 hours until tender, flipping occasionally. Brush with sauce the final 10-15 minutes.
Smoked Country Style Ribs
For the ultimate smoky flavor, smoke ribs in a charcoal smoker or electric smoker at 225-250°F for 4-6 hours with wood chips or chunks. Spritz with apple juice or broth every hour. Glaze with sauce the final 30 minutes.
Braised Country Style Ribs
Browning then braising makes ribs super tender. Brown ribs in a skillet in batches. Transfer to a Dutch oven, add braising liquid like stock, broth or beer. Simmer covered 1-2 hours until ribs are falling off the bone.
Instant Pot Country Style Ribs
The pressure cooker makes quick work of ribs. Add broth, seasonings and thickly coated ribs to pot. Cook on high pressure 25-40 minutes until tender. Use natural or quick release. Finish under the broiler with sauce.
Air Fryer Country Style Ribs
The air fryer crisps ribs with little oil. Rub seasoned ribs and mist with oil. Air fry at 370°F for 15 minutes, flipping halfway. Brush ribs with sauce and cook 5 minutes more to caramelize.
Flavorful Sauces and Rubs for Country Style Ribs
The right combination of rubs and sauces take country style ribs over the top. Here are delicious options to try:
Dry Rubs
Coat ribs with bold dry spice blends before cooking to add flavor. Try mixes with chile powder, brown sugar, paprika, garlic, onion, mustard, cumin and more.
Wet Barbecue Sauces
Finish ribs with sticky-sweet, tangy sauces for irresistible flavor. Use tomato based, vinegar, mustard and fruit based sauces. Apply the sauce during the last 20-30 minutes of cooking so it caramelizes.
Quick “Mop” Sauces
A thin sauce for basting keeps ribs moist during smoking. Whisk broth, vinegar, Worcestershire and spices for a classic mop. Apple juice and beer also work well.
Glazes
For a glossy crust, coat ribs with a glaze the last few minutes of cooking. Simmer jellies, honey, maple syrup, brown sugar, spices and citrus juice.
Marinades
Soak ribs in a flavor-packed marinade overnight before cooking. Include acidic ingredients like vinegar, fruit juices or yogurt which tenderize meat.
Handy Tips for Perfectly Cooked Country Style Ribs Every Time
With the right techniques, you can whip up tender, fall-off-the-bone country style ribs for unforgettable summertime barbecues:
- Choose meaty ribs at least 1⁄2 inch thick so they don’t dry out
- Remove the membrane for tender ribs that don’t pull apart when eating
- Apply a dry rub up to 12 hours before cooking so the spices permeate the meat
- Let ribs sit out for 20-30 minutes after seasoning to prevent sticking while cooking
- Use indirect heat and cook low-and-slow, keeping temperature between 225-300°F
- Flip ribs every 30-60 minutes while cooking for even browning
- Wrap ribs in foil if they stall and stop taking on color before they are fully tender
- Cook ribs until fork tender and the meat has shrunk back 1⁄4-1⁄2 inch from the ends
- Avoid charring, which can make ribs taste burnt – moderate heat is best
- Give ribs a quick char at the end by brushing with sauce and briefly searing
Serving Up Succulent Country Style Ribs
When your country style ribs come out of the smoker, grill or oven juicy, tender and full of flavor, it’s time to serve them up for the ultimate barbecue experience. Here are ideas for plating and pairing:
- Let ribs rest 5-10 minutes before slicing to prevent juices from running out.
- Cut ribs into individual bones or carve into slices. Arrange artfully on a platter.
- Garnish ribs with fresh parsley, sliced green onions or watermelon for color.
- Offer extra barbecue sauce on the side for dipping.
- Provide a selection of traditional sides like mac and cheese, coleslaw, baked beans and cornbread.
- For a more savory rib pairing, serve collard greens, roasted potatoes or a fresh salad.
- Cool things down with chilled sides like potato salad or fruit.
- Iced tea, lemonade or beer make great beverage choices.
With the techniques in this guide, you’ll be able to impress everyone at your next backyard cookout with the most mouthwatering country style ribs. Master indirect cooking methods along with flavor boosting dry rubs, sauces and glazes for ribs that fall off the bone with juicy, smoky flavor in every bite. From choosing quality ribs to cooking them to perfection to serving them up in style, follow these tips and you’ll become known for your incredible barbecued country style ribs.
Frequently Asked Questions About BBQ Country Style Ribs
Whether you’re a barbecue newbie or longtime pitmaster, cooking up tender, juicy country style ribs may bring up some questions. Here are answers to the most common FAQs:
Are country style ribs the same as baby back ribs?
No, country style ribs come from the loin section close to the shoulder where there is more marbling. Baby backs are cut from up near the spine and have a curved shape.
Should the membrane be removed from country style ribs?
Yes, removing the thin membrane will prevent ribs from curling up while cooking. Use a knife to gently loosen it from the underside, then pull it off.
What is the best wood for smoking country style ribs?
Oak, hickory, cherry, apple, pecan and mesquite all impart great flavor. Use milder fruit woods for pork.
Should ribs be smoked fat side up or down?
Cooking fat side up allows the rendered fat to baste the ribs. Place them fat side down if you want more of a charred bark.
How can you tell when country style ribs are done?
Check for tenderness using the bend test – ribs should bend easily without resistance. Meat should have pulled back from the ends of the bones too.
At what temperature are ribs fall-off-the-bone tender?
Ribs become fall-off-the-bone tender when cooked between 195 – 205°F. Use a meat thermometer to check internal temp.
Why do my country style ribs turn out tough?
Overcooking is the main cause of tough ribs. Also avoid drying them out and charring too much. Keep temps low, spritz with juice and wrap if needed.
How long can cooked ribs be left out?
Cooked ribs should not sit out at room temperature for more than 2 hours. Promptly refrigerate leftovers and enjoy within 3-4 days.
How can you reheat leftover country style ribs?
To reheat, wrap ribs in foil and warm gently in a 300°F oven until heated through, about 15-20 minutes. They also reheat well in the microwave.
Conclusion
Cooking up fall-off-the-bone tender, full of flavor country style ribs may seem intimidating, but is easy using the right techniques. Choose quality meaty ribs and prep them properly by removing membrane and applying a dry rub. Control the heat and use indirect cooking methods like smoking, baking, or grilling low-and-slow over moderate temperature for the ideal tenderness. Glaze ribs in the last 30 minutes with a sticky sauce or mop to finish. While the specific cook times and temperatures will vary based on the cut, using the tips in this guide will help you achieve barbecue perfection. Serve sliced country style ribs straight off the grill alongside classic barbecue sides and enjoy the summer’s best meal with family and friends. Once you master these techniques for ribs cooked with care, your restaurant-worthy results will have everyone begging you to host a backyard barbecue.