New to Smoking - MES rib questions

[utahjeff]

Hello,

I'm 100% new to the smoker world.  I know I enjoy BBQ and smoked meat, but this is my first pass at smoking at home.

I bought a MES 40" this week and will be trying baby back ribs next week.  I'm leaning toward the 3-2-1 method after doing some reading.

I have two questions.  

1.  What is your favorite wood to smoke ribs with?

2.  How often do you refill the wood chips?  I want a good smoked flavor, but don't want to "over do it".

Thanks in advance.

Jeff

 

[SmokinAl]

I use hickory for just about everything.

Add chips when the smoke stops, probably every 30-45 minutes.

For BB's you would use 2-2-1.

Al

 

[utahjeff]

Thank you Sir!  I greatly appreciate the help.

Any suggestions on a favorite rub recipe?  I know everyone has different preferences, but I'm looking for a starting point recipe!

Thank you again!

 

[bbqwillie]

Jeff makes a nice rub that is easily tweaked to taste. You can buy it through the site. Here's a quickie that's decent on ribs:

1/2 cup    paparika
1/4 cup    Kosher Salt
1/4 cup    Sugar
1/4 cup    chili powder (hot)
2 TSP      mustard powder
1/4 cup    cumin
2 TSP      black pepper
1/4 cup    granulated garlic
2 TSP      cayenne

adjust mustard powder and black pepper for heat

As for wood I'm partial to a pecan/cherry mix.

 

[utahjeff]

Thanks much.  I'll be trying this next weekend. 

 

[Bearcarver]

Yup---It's usually about 5 total hours for Baby Backs.

You should start with 2-2-1, and adjust to what you like.

Here's a pretty good Baby Back Step by Step:

Baby Back Ribs

Bear