Smoked Beef Ribs

Smoked Beef Ribs
Rich and juicy beef ribs with a deep smoky flavour, a peppery bark, and meat that pulls cleanly from the bone. Perfect for a weekend BBQ or special gathering.
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
Step 1 – Prepare the Ribs
- Remove any loose fat or silver skin from the top of the ribs.
- Lightly coat the ribs with olive oil or mustard.
- Mix the dry rub ingredients and apply generously over all sides.
- Let the ribs sit at room temperature for 30–45 minutes.
Step 2 – Prepare the Smoker
- Preheat your smoker to 120°C (250°F).
- Use hardwood such as oak, hickory, pecan, or a blend.
- Maintain a steady temperature throughout the cook.
Step 3 – Smoke the Ribs
- Place the ribs bone-side down on the smoker.
- Smoke for approximately 4–5 hours.
- Spritz every hour after the first 2 hours if desired.
- Continue until the internal temperature reaches about 75°C (167°F) and a dark bark has formed.
Step 4 – Wrap
- Wrap the ribs tightly in butcher paper or foil.
- Return them to the smoker.
- Continue cooking until the internal temperature reaches 95–98°C (203–208°F) and a probe slides in with little resistance.
Step 5 – Rest
- Remove the ribs from the smoker.
- Keep wrapped and rest for 30–60 minutes in a warm cooler or oven turned off.
Step 6 – Serve
- Slice between the bones.
- Serve with chimichurri, coleslaw, roasted vegetables, or potato salad.
Cooking Tips
Beef ribs are done when they feel tender, not just when they reach a target temperature. Oak wood provides a classic Texas-style flavour. Avoid opening the smoker too often, as this causes temperature fluctuations. A good bark should be dark brown to almost black, but not burnt.Notes
| Stage | Temperature |
|---|---|
| Start wrapping | 75°C (167°F) |
| Finished cooking | 95–98°C (203–208°F) |
| Serving temperature | 60–70°C (140–158°F) |
