The Memphis Style pork rib is one of the most popular and mouth
watering styles of rib preparation. One of the reasons for the
popularity with the Memphis Style rib is its unique blend of
barbeque tradition and flavorful seasonings.
The only sauce applied to Memphis Style ribs is mop sauce used
for basting during the cooking process. Barbeque sauce is never
used during the cooking process but rather served on the side
with the ribs at the table. Because a barbeque sauce is not
used, the mop sauce is an important component in keeping the
meat moist. A Memphis Style barbeque sauce will be a tomato and
vinegar based sauce that may also contain mustard. With this
style, the quality of the meat is much more important then any
sauce. The idea is to feature the meat rather then covering it
up with a sauce. While some people can’t wait to dip the ribs
in their favorite barbeque sauce, others enjoy the pure flavor
of just the meat and rub seasoning.
Memphis style ribs are traditionally smoked and not grilled,
baked or broiled. White oak and hickory are the traditional
woods used however many other woods are now used. Other woods
used include apple and cherry.
While the quality of the meat is extra important the Memphis
Style, choosing which cut is up to the individual and the
occasion. The most popular pork rib is the St. Louis Style Rib
which comes from the pig’s rib section. The back rib, also
known as the Baby Back Rib comes from the loin portion or back
and is also quite popular. The St. Louis Style Rib is typically
easier to work with and has more meat making it a favorite for
the hardy eater.
However you decide to cook them, low heat and slow cooking will
give you the best rib.
For the mop sauce
· 1 1/2 cups cider vinegar
· 2 cups apple cider
· 2 bay leaves
· 4 cloves garlic, finely minced
· 3 tablespoons hot sauce
· 1 tablespoon salt
· 3/4 cup BBQ Rub, recipe follows
For the rub
· 1/4 cup paprika
· 1/4 cup dark brown sugar
· 2 tablespoons black pepper
· 1 tablespoon salt
· 1 tablespoon celery salt
· 2 teaspoons garlic powder
· 2 teaspoons dry mustard
· 2 teaspoons cumin
· 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper
Preparing the ribs - Wash the ribs and blot dry with paper
towel. Place the ribs meat-side up. Cut the line of fat on the
base of the ribs to remove the cartilaginous rib tips. Flip the
meat over and cut off the flap of meat on the inside of the
ribs. This is not essentially but will help prevent them from
burning. Remove the membrane on the back of each rack of ribs.
You can use your fingers to pull it off but sometimes it’s
easier to use a paper towel or a dishtowel to get a secure
grip.
Combine the ingredients for the rub and mix well. Liberally rub
the ribs on both sides with the mixture. Wrap each rib in
plastic wrap then aluminum foil and let marinate for at least 4
hours, but over night is best.
Preparing the smoker – Presoak your wood chips in water for
roughly an hour. Place a drip pan in the center of your smoker
with plenty of water. A charcoal chimney is best to get your
coals started. Once you have hot coals spread them out and put
a health amount of your chips down.
Smoking the ribs – Place aluminum foil on the rack before
placing the ribs down and another loose piece on top of the
ribs. Place the ribs on the smoker over the drip pan and cover
the smoker. Start basting with the mop sauce after 30 minutes,
basting every 20-30 minutes. You will need to replenish the
coals and wood chips form time to time as needed. The ribs are
done when the meat is very tender and it has shrunk back from
the ends of the bones. At temperatures ranging from 200-250
your ribs should take roughly 4-5 hours however every smoker is
different.
Cut each slab between the rib bones and serve with your
favorite barbecue sauce on the side.
About The Author: Scott Schirkofsky is the chef and owner of At
Home Gourmet. You can find more recipes, cooking tips, food and
beverage articles on his highly recommended website:
http://www.athomegourmet.com and
http://www.foodandbeveragenetwork.com
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