Grilling Country Ribs: A Step-By-Step Guide On A Gas Grill

Looking for a mouthwatering solution to satisfy your grilling cravings? Look no further! In this article, we’ll show you how to grill country ribs on a gas grill, ensuring tender, flavorful results that will impress your friends and family. Grilling ribs on a gas grill may seem daunting at first, but with our step-by-step guide, you’ll be able to master this culinary technique in no time. So grab your apron, fire up the grill, and get ready to indulge in the deliciousness of perfectly grilled country ribs. Let’s dive in!

How to Grill Country Ribs on a Gas Grill

Grilling country ribs on a gas grill is a fantastic way to enjoy tender and flavorful meat. Whether you’re hosting a backyard barbecue or simply craving some smoky goodness, this guide will take you through the steps of grilling country ribs to perfection. From choosing the right ribs to marinating and cooking techniques, we’ve got you covered.

Choosing the Right Country Ribs

Before you begin grilling, it’s important to choose the right type of country ribs. Here are the two most common options:

1. Pork Loin Back Ribs: These ribs come from the top part of the pig’s ribcage, near the backbone. They tend to be leaner and have more meat compared to other cuts. Pork loin back ribs are typically more tender and flavorful.
2. Pork Spare Ribs: These ribs come from the lower part of the pig’s ribcage, closer to the belly. They have more fat and connective tissue, which adds richness and juiciness to the meat. Pork spare ribs have a slightly stronger flavor.

Both types of country ribs can be grilled using the same techniques outlined in this guide. Choose the one that suits your taste preferences.

Preparing the Ribs

Once you’ve selected your country ribs, it’s time to prepare them for grilling. Follow these steps:

1. Trim Excess Fat: Use a sharp knife to remove any large pieces of excess fat from the ribs. Leaving a thin layer of fat can add flavor and moisture to the meat during cooking.
2. Remove the Membrane: Flip the ribs over so the bone side is facing up. Locate the membrane, a tough layer of connective tissue, on the back of the ribs. Gently lift one corner with a butter knife or your fingers and pull it off the ribs. Removing the membrane allows for better seasoning penetration and enhances tenderness.
3. Seasoning the Ribs: Sprinkle your desired seasoning blend on both sides of the ribs. You can use a store-bought rub or create your own using a combination of salt, pepper, garlic powder, paprika, and other spices. Massage the seasoning into the meat to ensure even distribution.

Marinating and Resting

Marinating the ribs is optional but highly recommended as it adds extra flavor and helps tenderize the meat. Here’s how to marinate your country ribs:

1. Choose a Marinade: Select a marinade that complements the flavors of your seasoning. Popular options include barbecue sauce, honey mustard, teriyaki, or a simple blend of olive oil, lemon juice, and herbs.
2. Coat the Ribs: Place the seasoned ribs in a large zip-top bag or a shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the ribs, ensuring that they are well-coated. Seal the bag or cover the dish and let the ribs marinate in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours or overnight for maximum flavor.
3. Rest the Ribs: Before grilling, remove the ribs from the refrigerator and let them sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes. This allows the meat to relax, ensuring more even cooking and juiciness.

Setting up the Gas Grill

Now that your ribs are prepared and marinated, it’s time to fire up the gas grill. Follow these steps to set it up correctly:

1. Clean the Grill Grates: Preheat the grill to high heat for about 10-15 minutes to burn off any residue from previous cooking sessions. Use a wire brush to clean the grates thoroughly.
2. Adjust the Heat: Reduce the heat to medium or medium-low, depending on your grill’s settings. This allows for slower and more controlled cooking, preventing the ribs from drying out.
3. Indirect Heat Method: For country ribs, it’s best to use the indirect heat method. This means turning off one or two burners and placing the ribs on the unlit side. It creates a gentle cooking environment, preventing the meat from burning or becoming too charred.
4. Prevent Flare-ups: Place a drip pan filled with water or a marinade under the ribs on the grill’s lower rack. This prevents flare-ups caused by dripping fat and helps maintain a moist grilling environment.

Grilling the Country Ribs

With the grill set up, it’s time to grill your country ribs to perfection. Follow these grilling techniques:

1. Place the Ribs on the Grill: Carefully place the marinated ribs bone side down on the grill grates, over the drip pan. Close the lid and let them cook undisturbed for about 1 to 1.5 hours.
2. Basting and Flipping: Every 20-30 minutes, open the grill lid and baste the ribs with your chosen sauce or marinade. This adds flavor and helps keep the meat moist. Remember to flip the ribs every time you baste to ensure even cooking.
3. Checking for Doneness: After about an hour of cooking, start checking the ribs for doneness. They should be tender and cooked through, with an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C). You can use an instant-read thermometer to confirm the temperature.
4. Optional Charring: If you prefer a charred exterior, increase the heat to medium-high for the last 10-15 minutes of cooking. This will give the ribs a caramelized crust. However, be cautious not to burn them.

Resting and Serving

Once the ribs reach the desired doneness, it’s essential to let them rest before serving. Follow these final steps:

1. Tent with Foil: Remove the ribs from the grill and place them on a cutting board. Tent the ribs loosely with aluminum foil and let them rest for 10-15 minutes. This allows the meat fibers to relax and reabsorb the juices, resulting in a more tender and flavorful bite.
2. Slicing and Serving: After resting, use a sharp knife to slice the ribs between the bones. Serve them immediately with your favorite sides, such as coleslaw, cornbread, or grilled vegetables.

Now that you’ve mastered the art of grilling country ribs on a gas grill, it’s time to gather your friends and family and enjoy the delicious fruits of your labor. With practice and experimentation, you can customize the flavors and techniques to create your signature grilled country ribs. Happy grilling!

How to Make Grilled Country Style Pork Ribs~Easy Cooking

Frequently Asked Questions

Question: What are country ribs and how do you grill them on a gas grill?

Answer: Country ribs are a type of pork ribs that come from the shoulder area of the pig. They are meaty and flavorful, making them an excellent choice for grilling. Here’s how you can grill country ribs on a gas grill:

Question: How should I prepare the ribs before grilling?

Answer: Before grilling, you can marinate the country ribs for a few hours or overnight to enhance their flavor. You can use a marinade of your choice, such as a mixture of Worcestershire sauce, soy sauce, garlic, and spices. Alternatively, you can season the ribs with a dry rub, which typically consists of a blend of spices such as paprika, brown sugar, salt, and pepper.

Question: How do I set up my gas grill for grilling country ribs?

Answer: Start by preheating your gas grill to medium-high heat, around 375-400°F (190-200°C). If your grill has multiple burners, it is recommended to turn off one of the burners to create an indirect grilling zone. This will allow you to grill the ribs using both direct and indirect heat.

Question: How long should I grill country ribs on a gas grill?

Answer: The cooking time can vary depending on the thickness of the ribs and the grill temperature. As a general guideline, grill the country ribs for about 15-20 minutes on direct heat, flipping them occasionally to ensure even cooking. Then, move the ribs to the indirect heat zone and continue grilling for another 30-40 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C).

Question: How can I tell if the country ribs are done?

Answer: To determine if the country ribs are done, you can use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature. Insert the thermometer into the thickest part of the meat, avoiding contact with the bone. The ribs are ready when the thermometer reads 145°F (63°C). Additionally, you can visually inspect the ribs for any signs of charred edges or a caramelized glaze, which indicate they are cooked to perfection.

Question: Should I let the country ribs rest after grilling?

Answer: Yes, it is recommended to let the country ribs rest for about 5-10 minutes after grilling. This allows the juices to redistribute and the meat to become more tender. Cover the ribs loosely with aluminum foil during the resting period to retain their heat. Once the resting time is over, you can serve the ribs and enjoy their delicious smoky flavors.

Final Thoughts

Grilling country ribs on a gas grill is a simple and delicious way to enjoy this flavorful cut of meat. Start by preheating your gas grill to medium-high heat. Season the ribs with your favorite dry rub, then place them on the grill. Cook the ribs for about 10 minutes on each side, or until they reach an internal temperature of 145°F. Brush the ribs with barbecue sauce during the last few minutes of cooking for added flavor. Let the ribs rest for a few minutes before serving. Grilling country ribs on a gas grill is a quick, easy, and tasty way to enjoy this classic dish.