My favorite method for ribs

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josepha

Newbie
Original poster
May 21, 2014
14
10
After reading in these forums about the "3-2-1" method for ribs (smoke for 3 hours, wrap in foil to retain juices and smoke for 2 hours, unwrap, mop, and smoke for 1hour), I've standardized on this method for doing ribs. They come out great every time, and they pass the "acid test": people who have no reason to butter me up say that the ribs taste great!

I alternate between Famous Dave's Rib Rub, which I found in the grocery, and "Bronzeville Rib Rub, which I found online at www.thespicehouse.com. Either way, I apply the rub and let the ribs sit overnight. Before I start the smoker, I take the ribs out of the fridge and let them come up to room temp. I mainly use mesquite chips for ribs. I've tried creating my own sauce, but after reading the labels on sauce bottles, I've settled on Stubbs brand regular barbecue sauce for just about everything.

This may be too simplistic for advanced BBQ-ers, but it works for me.:439:


Above: the latest batch of baby backs. Below: Choo-Choo says, "Mom-mom, are you gonna eat that?"

 
Not too simplistic at all Joseph...those ribs look awesome!

I use the same method...I just don't use a store bought rub or sauce...but if you found a good one...then stick with it bud!

Great job!
 
Nice
drool.gif
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Easy and efficient...
 
This may be too simplistic for advanced BBQ-ers, but it works for me.
439.gif
Certainly not too simplistic. The secret is finding what works for you and use it. A lot of us make our own rubs and BBQ sauce however most of us will used commercially prepared ingredients (e.g. Ketchup) as one of the main ingredients. I say "most" as some on here will also make it from scratch themselves.

Even though you like it that should not stop you from tweaking it in the future though. There are some great rub recipes on here and they are not difficult to make. Make a small batch and try one on one rack and your usual brand on a second. That way you can compare them side by side.
 
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Joseph, looking good.

I'm with Wade, it took me a few years to get my ribs to the point I felt were top notch, I spent more time on experimenting with layering flavors after I was happy with the cooking method.

It's a great feeling when you have a system and it works every time, hell we all like experimenting but It's nice to know you always have your "tried and true" to fall back on.
 
What temp are smoking at? I find that when I use the 3-2-1 method my ribs are way too tender. I think it's because temp is too hot.
 
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