These Easy Grilled Country Style Ribs are tender and packed with flavor. With just a few ingredients and a tasty marinade, you’ll have a delicious meal ready to impress!
I love how simple it is to grill these ribs. Plus, the smoky flavor just makes them so good! You might catch yourself going back for seconds—it’s hard to resist! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Country Style Pork Ribs: These ribs are a great option because they are meatier and tend to stay juicy. If you can’t find them, you can use spare ribs or baby back ribs as substitutes, but adjust cooking time.
Soy Sauce: This ingredient adds a salty depth to the ribs. If you’re watching your sodium intake, opt for low-sodium soy sauce or tamari for a gluten-free option.
Apple Cider Vinegar: It gives the marinade a nice tang. You could substitute it with white vinegar or lemon juice, but it may alter the flavor slightly.
Brown Sugar: It adds sweetness and helps caramelize the ribs when grilled. If you’re looking for a healthier option, coconut sugar is a great alternative.
Smoked Paprika: This adds a wonderful smoky flavor without needing a smoker! If you don’t have it, regular paprika or even cayenne can work, keeping in mind that cayenne is spicier.
How Do I Get the Perfect Grill Marks on My Ribs?
Getting those beautiful grill marks is all about technique! Here’s how to achieve them:
- First, start with a preheated grill. Medium heat around 350°F is ideal.
- Place the ribs on the grill and let them cook undisturbed for about 6-8 minutes per side.
- When you flip them, do it just once to avoid tearing the meat. This helps keep juices in!
- If using barbecue sauce, brush it on in the last few minutes. This not only adds flavor but also creates a nice glaze.
Letting the ribs rest for a few minutes after grilling allows the juices to redistribute, so they stay moist and juicy when you slice in!
Easy Grilled Country Style Ribs Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 3 lbs country style pork ribs
- 1/2 cup soy sauce
- 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Optional: barbecue sauce for basting
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 2.5 hours in total. You’ll need about 10-15 minutes to prepare the marinade and ribs, then at least 2 hours for marinating, and about 15 minutes for grilling. The wait is totally worth it for that juicy, flavorful bite!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Make the Marinade:
In a large bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, apple cider vinegar, brown sugar, minced garlic, smoked paprika, black pepper, salt, and olive oil. This mixture will be your marinade that packs a punch of flavor!
2. Marinate the Ribs:
Place the country style ribs into a large resealable bag or a container. Pour the marinade over the ribs and make sure they are well coated. Seal the bag or cover the container and refrigerate for at least 2 hours—overnight is even better! This lets all those tasty flavors soak into the meat.
3. Preheat Your Grill:
When you’re ready to grill, preheat your grill to medium heat, which is about 350°F (175°C). This temperature will help achieve that perfect char without burning the ribs.
4. Grill the Ribs:
Take the ribs out of the marinade and let the excess drip off. If you want, you can reserve some of the marinade for basting. Place the ribs on the grill and cook for about 6-8 minutes on each side. Turn them only once to ensure they get nice grill marks and stay juicy. You’ll want the internal temperature to reach at least 145°F for doneness.
5. Baste and Finish Up:
If you like, brush the ribs with reserved marinade or barbecue sauce during the last few minutes of grilling. This will give your ribs a tasty glaze and an extra burst of flavor.
6. Rest and Serve:
Once grilled to perfection, remove the ribs from the grill and let them rest for about 5 minutes. This resting time helps the juices redistribute, making each bite so much better. After resting, slice, serve hot, and enjoy these deliciously tender grilled country style ribs!
FAQ for Easy Grilled Country Style Ribs Recipe
Can I Use Other Cuts of Pork for This Recipe?
Yes! If you can’t find country style ribs, spare ribs or baby back ribs are great alternatives. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary slightly depending on the cut you choose, so be sure to check for doneness.
How Long Can I Marinate the Ribs?
You can marinate the ribs in the refrigerator for a minimum of 2 hours or up to 24 hours. The longer you marinate, the more flavorful they will be! Just be mindful not to exceed 24 hours as the meat may begin to break down too much.
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftover Ribs?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm them in the oven or microwave, adding a splash of water or broth to prevent them from drying out. Enjoy them as is, or toss them back on the grill for that fresh-out-of-the-kitchen taste!
What Should I Serve with Grilled Country Style Ribs?
These ribs pair wonderfully with classic sides like coleslaw, cornbread, or grilled vegetables. You can also serve them alongside a refreshing salad or baked beans for a complete meal that’s sure to impress!
