How to Cook Delicious Ribs

You probably already know that ribs are at their best when they’re cooked for a long time at low temperatures. But how will you know when they’re ready to come off the grill?

There are several different methods, and most experts can’t agree on which one is best. That’s why we’ve compiled this list of the best-known techniques. Read on to find out how to tell if ribs are done using these tried-and-true hacks.

About Grilling Pork Ribs

Pork ribs need to be cooked just long enough for the fat to render without allowing the meat to dry out. Because this can be a tricky feat to master, let’s go over a few frequently asked questions before we get into the tests.

At What Temperature Are Pork Ribs Considered Done?

For the purposes of this guide, we’ll go with an internal temperature of 195 degrees Fahrenheit. At this point, the fat and connective tissues have broken down enough to tenderize the meat.

Can You Overcook Ribs?

Yes, it’s possible to end up with overcooked ribs. As you’ll learn from our chosen techniques, the meat should separate from the bone easily when light pressure is applied. However, if the meat is literally falling off the bone, it’s likely been cooked for too long.

My Ribs Came Out Too Tough. What Happened?

How to fix tough ribs? The short answer is to cook them longer. Toughness is the hallmark of undercooked ribs. Here’s why.

Because ribs contain a great deal of fat and connective tissue, the meat is naturally tough before it’s cooked. Only the long, slow cooking process can break down the tissues and render the fat to give you the tender, succulent texture you crave.

So, if you’re wondering how to tenderize ribs, make sure you allow for plenty of cooking time. As we’ve pointed out in The Timing Test, below, baby back ribs should be cooked for 3-4 hours, while spare ribs and St. Louis ribs typically take 5-6 hours before they’re done.

Do Ribs Get More Tender The Longer They Cook?

Yes, up to a certain point. When the pork is cooked past 203 degrees, it begins to dry out and resemble sawdust more than anything else. While you’ll want to cook the ribs to at least 195 degrees, avoid leaving them on for much longer, or the meat will have an unpleasant mushy texture.

Can Ribs Be Pink?

Yes. If you’re making smoked ribs, the meat will have a pinkish tinge around the edges (see The Visual Test, below. This is a normal reaction, and it will remain even when the pork is fully cooked. Otherwise, pink ribs are a sign that the meat hasn’t fully cooked through yet.

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