Memphis-Style Dry Rub BBQ Ribs
Experience the smoky, robust flavors of Memphis with these remarkable dry rub BBQ ribs, a signature recipe from the renowned Charlie Vergos Rendezvous restaurant. These ribs are mouthwateringly seasoned with a special blend of dry spices that penetrate the meat, creating a beautifully balanced flavor profile without the need for sticky sauces. Perfect for a backyard BBQ or a cozy gathering, these ribs can be paired with your favorite side dishes for a complete meal. While they shine on their own, feel free to serve with additional BBQ sauce on the side for those who appreciate a sauceless option. Get ready to impress your family and friends with this iconic Memphis dish!
N/A
Servings
600
Calories
4
Ingredients
Ingredients
White distilled vinegar
4 cups (None)
Water
4 cups (None)
Barbecue dry rub seasonings
1/3 cup (Use the Rendezvous recipe for best results)
Pork back ribs
4 lbs (Approximately 2 slabs, trimmed if needed)
Instructions
1
In a medium bowl, whisk together the white distilled vinegar, water, and the BBQ dry rub seasonings to create a flavorful basting sauce.
2
Prepare your grill by setting the rack about 18 inches above the coals and preheat it to a temperature of 325°F to 350°F.
3
Place the pork back ribs on the grill with the bone side facing down. Cook over direct heat for about 30 minutes, ensuring the underside becomes golden. Baste the ribs several times during cooking for added flavor and moisture.
4
After 30 minutes, carefully flip the ribs over. Continue grilling and basting until the top side is golden brown, which should take another 30 minutes.
5
Check for doneness: the ribs are ready when they are hot enough to burn your fingers upon touch.
6
Once done, do a final baste with the sauce, sprinkle some extra dry rub seasoning on top, and serve hot.
Nutrition Information
40g
Fat
1.5g
Carbs
57.5g
Protein
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes Memphis-Style ribs unique?
These ribs are seasoned with a special blend of dry spices that penetrate the meat, creating a balanced flavor profile without the need for sticky sauces.
Where does this specific recipe originate?
This recipe is inspired by the signature style of the renowned Charlie Vergos Rendezvous restaurant in Memphis.
What ingredients are used in the basting sauce?
The basting sauce consists of white distilled vinegar, water, and BBQ dry rub seasonings.
What is the recommended grill temperature for these ribs?
The grill should be preheated to a temperature between 325°F and 350°F.
How high should the grill rack be placed?
The grill rack should be set approximately 18 inches above the coals.
Should I use direct or indirect heat?
The instructions specify cooking the pork back ribs over direct heat.
Which side of the ribs should face the heat first?
Place the ribs on the grill with the bone side facing down initially.
How long should the bone side cook?
The ribs should cook bone-side down for about 30 minutes until the underside is golden.
When should I flip the ribs?
Flip the ribs after the first 30 minutes once the bottom side has turned golden.
How long do the ribs cook after being flipped?
They should grill for another 30 minutes on the top side until golden brown.
How can I tell if the ribs are done?
The ribs are ready when they are hot enough to burn your fingers upon touch.
What is the final step before serving the ribs?
Perform a final baste with the sauce and sprinkle extra dry rub seasoning on top.
How much pork is required for this recipe?
The recipe calls for 4 lbs of pork back ribs, which is approximately 2 slabs.
What kind of vinegar should be used?
White distilled vinegar is used for the basting sauce.
What amount of dry rub goes into the basting liquid?
Use 1/3 cup of barbecue dry rub seasonings for the basting sauce.
How much vinegar and water is needed?
You will need 4 cups of white distilled vinegar and 4 cups of water.
What is the calorie count per serving?
Each serving contains approximately 600 calories.
How much protein is in a serving of these ribs?
There are 57.5g of protein per serving.
What is the fat content of the ribs?
The fat content is approximately 40g per serving.
Are these ribs high in carbohydrates?
No, they are very low in carbs with only 1.5g per serving.
Can I serve these ribs with sauce?
Yes, while they are designed to be dry, you can serve additional BBQ sauce on the side.
Is it necessary to baste the ribs during cooking?
Yes, you should baste the ribs several times during cooking to add flavor and maintain moisture.
What type of dry rub is recommended?
The recipe suggests using the Rendezvous recipe dry rub for the most authentic results.
How many ingredients are in the total recipe?
There are 4 main ingredients: vinegar, water, dry rub, and pork back ribs.
What is the best setting for this recipe?
These ribs are perfect for a backyard BBQ or an outdoor cooking gathering.
Are these ribs considered finger food?
Yes, they are categorized as finger food.
What preparation is needed for the ribs?
The ribs should be trimmed if needed before they are placed on the grill.
How many servings does this recipe make?
While not explicitly stated, 4 lbs of ribs typically serves 4 to 6 people.
Is the basting sauce used at the very end?
Yes, a final baste is applied just before serving to lock in the flavor.
What color should the ribs be when finished?
The ribs should be a beautiful golden brown on both sides when fully cooked.