How to Grill Ribs

There are many different ways to grill ribs successfully, and many methods start with a dry rub marinade. Frequently, the ribs are precooked prior to grilling to decrease the amount of time they are on the grill. A good barbecue sauce is the finishing touch on the ribs as they grill. The type of sauce is a personal preference. Some like hot and spicy, some like sweet and savory, but whichever is used, sauce adds glaze and flavor to the final cooking.

1. First: Making a dry rub

   A dry rub marinade can consist of many different combinations of spices and other ingredients. Many dry rubs contain garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, brown sugar, paprika, cumin and chili powder. Mix these ingredients together and spread them onto both sides of the ribs, then cover and refrigerate them four hours or overnight.

2. Second: Precook the ribs in the oven

   Place the ribs in a shallow baking pan and cover the pan tightly with foil. Then, cook the ribs in the oven on low heat, approximately 300 degrees, for about an hour.

3. Third: Finish the ribs on the grill

   Turn the grill on to a medium heat (or make sure coals are medium-hot). Place the ribs directly on the grill and cook them for about five minutes, then turn them over and cook for five additional minutes, with the lid closed. Next, open the lid and brush barbecue sauce all over the top of the ribs and cook for about five minutes, then turn the ribs and brush sauce onto the opposite side. Allow them to cook for about five more minutes or until they reach the desired doneness. Let the ribs stand for a few minutes before serving.