Smoky Hickory Herb-Infused BBQ Baby Back Ribs

Hickory Smoked BBQ Baby Back Ribs Recipe

Overview

This recipe for Hickory Smoked BBQ Baby Back Ribs promises to deliver the ultimate smoked rib experience right in your own backyard. Adapted from a Cook’s Illustrated article, it combines a flavorful brine, a robust herb rub, and the aromatic smoke of hickory wood to create ribs that rival those from the best smokehouses. Ideal for a weekend barbecue or a special occasion, these ribs are infused with layers of savory and smoky flavors, making them a true crowd-pleaser.

Recipe Details

• Name: Hickory Smoked BBQ Baby Back Ribs
• Cook Time: 4 hours
• Prep Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 4 hours 30 minutes
• Recipe Category: Pork
• Keywords: Meat, Southwestern U.S., Very Low Carbs, Spring, Summer, Weeknight
• Aggregated Rating: 5 (based on 15 reviews)
• Calories: 1386.7 per serving
• Fat Content: 101.1g
• Saturated Fat Content: 30g
• Cholesterol Content: 313mg
• Sodium Content: 14574.4mg
• Carbohydrate Content: 33.8g
• Fiber Content: 0.4g
• Sugar Content: 31.7g
• Protein Content: 86.9g
• Servings: 4
• Yield: 2 Racks

Ingredients

• 2 racks baby back ribs
• 1/2 cup kosher salt
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 4 cups cold water
• 6 garlic cloves
• 8 fresh basil leaves
• 1 sprig fresh thyme
• 1 sprig fresh oregano
• 2 tablespoons Italian parsley
• 1/2 cup olive oil
• 2-4 tablespoons light brown sugar

Instructions

1. Brining the Ribs:

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   • Combine the kosher salt, granulated sugar, and water in a large plastic container or non-reactive stock pot.
   • Place the ribs in the brine and refrigerate for one hour.

2. Preparing the Herb Rub:

   • In a food processor, blend together garlic cloves, basil leaves, thyme, oregano, parsley, and olive oil until it forms a thick green liquid.

3. Applying the Rub:

   • Remove the ribs from the brine and pat them dry with paper towels.
   • Brush or rub the herb mixture over both sides of the ribs. Sprinkle with light brown sugar.
   • Wrap the ribs tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least one hour, preferably up to 4 hours or overnight for enhanced flavor.

4. Setting Up the Smoker:

   • For wood/charcoal method: Soak 2 large chunks of hickory wood in water. Light 40-50 coals or use an equal amount of dry hickory chunks for intense smoke.
   • Avoid using lighter fluid; use a fire starter chimney instead.
   • Once coals are covered with gray ash, move them to one side of the grill and place soaked hickory chunks on top. Replace the grate.
   • Create a pan with heavy aluminum foil large enough for the ribs. Place it on the cool side of the grill, add about 1 cup of water, and cover with the grill lid, positioning the holes over the meat.
   • Turn the ribs 180 degrees every 30 minutes. Add more coals or wood chunks as needed, maintaining a grill temperature around 275°F.
   • Smoke the ribs for a total of 4 hours.

5. Gas Grill Method:

   • While not recommended due to potential slight gas taste, it can still work.
   • Follow the same basic technique as the charcoal method, using soaked hickory chips in a disposable aluminum pan placed on the hot side of the grill.
   • Maintain a grill temperature of around 275°F for 4 hours.

6. Finishing Touches:

   • Serve the smoked ribs with your favorite BBQ sauce, such as Lee Lee’s Famous Barbecue Sauce for Ribs with Preserves (#26794).
   • Optionally, brush some BBQ sauce on the ribs during the last 5-10 minutes of cooking for added flavor.

Serving Suggestions

These Hickory Smoked BBQ Baby Back Ribs are best served hot off the grill, paired with classic sides like coleslaw, cornbread, or grilled vegetables. The tender, smoky meat is complemented perfectly by a tangy BBQ sauce, creating a memorable dining experience for any barbecue enthusiast.

Conclusion

With its detailed brining, flavorful herb rub, and careful smoking process, this recipe ensures that every bite of the Hickory Smoked BBQ Baby Back Ribs is packed with savory goodness. Whether you’re hosting a backyard gathering or simply craving a taste of authentic BBQ, this recipe guarantees delicious results that will have everyone asking for seconds. Enjoy the taste of a smokehouse right at home with these mouthwatering ribs!