Nothing beats the savory aroma of tender, juicy smoked pork ribs fresh off the Traeger grill. This recipe will guide you through the simple steps to achieve mouthwatering smoked pork ribs that your family and friends will love. Perfect for a weekend barbecue or a special gathering, these ribs are sure to be a hit at any meal.
**Smoked Pork Ribs Traeger**
**Ingredients:**
– 1 rack of pork ribs
– 1 cup of your favorite barbecue rub
– 1 cup of apple cider vinegar
– 1 cup of apple juice
– 2 cups of wood pellets (hickory or applewood work well)
**Instructions:**
1. **Prepare the Ribs:** Start by removing the membrane from the underside of the ribs. This will help the ribs absorb the flavors during the smoking process. Simply slide a butter knife under the membrane and lift it away from the ribs. Use a paper towel to grip and pull off the membrane completely.
2. **Season the Ribs:** Generously season both sides of the ribs with your favorite barbecue rub. Make sure to rub the seasoning into the meat to ensure maximum flavor penetration. Let the ribs sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
3. **Preheat the Traeger Grill:** Preheat your Traeger grill to 225°F (107°C). Fill the hopper with your choice of wood pellets – hickory or applewood are popular options for smoked pork ribs. Once the grill is preheated, place the ribs on the grill grates bone side down.
4. **Smoke the Ribs:** Close the lid of the grill and let the ribs smoke for about 3 hours. During this time, the ribs will slowly absorb the smoky flavors from the wood pellets, creating a delicious bark on the outside of the meat.
5. **Wrap the Ribs:** After 3 hours, remove the ribs from the grill and place them on a sheet of aluminum foil. Pour the apple cider vinegar and apple juice over the ribs, then tightly wrap them in the foil. This step helps tenderize the meat and infuse it with additional flavor.
6. **Return to the Grill:** Place the wrapped ribs back on the Traeger grill and continue cooking at 225°F (107°C) for another 2 hours. This low and slow method will ensure the ribs are fall-off-the-bone tender and packed with smoky goodness.
7. **Finish with Sauce:** After 2 hours, unwrap the ribs and brush them with your favorite barbecue sauce. Return the ribs to the grill, uncovered, for an additional 30 minutes to allow the sauce to caramelize slightly.
8. **Serve and Enjoy:** Once the ribs are done, remove them from the grill and let them rest for a few minutes before slicing between the bones. Serve the smoked pork ribs hot with your favorite sides, such as coleslaw, cornbread, or grilled veggies.
These Smoked Pork Ribs Traeger are a true crowd-pleaser, combining the rich flavors of barbecue rub, smoky wood pellets, and tangy apple juice. Whether you’re hosting a backyard cookout or simply craving some delicious ribs, this recipe is sure to satisfy your barbecue cravings. Enjoy the process of smoking these ribs and savor the delicious results with your loved ones. Happy grilling!
