Are you looking for a way to take your BBQ game to the next level? Look no further than St. Louis ribs cooked to perfection on your Oklahoma Joe’s Highland smoker. These mouth-watering ribs are the highlight of any backyard cookout, and with a few simple tips and tricks, you can become a pro at cooking them yourself. In this post, we’ll guide you through the process of preparing and smoking St. Louis ribs for a delicious and impressive meal that your guests won’t soon forget.

How to Make Mouth-Watering St. Louis Ribs on Your Oklahoma Joe’s Highland Smoker

Introduction

St. Louis-style ribs are a classic American barbecue dish, and smoking them on an Oklahoma Joe’s Highland Offset Smoker is one of the best ways to achieve that juicy and tender texture that everyone craves. However, smoking ribs can be a daunting task if you’re not familiar with the process. In this article, we’ll dive into the step-by-step process of smoking St. Louis-style ribs on your Oklahoma Joe’s Highland Smoker, along with some tips and tricks to ensure your ribs come out perfect every time.

Step-by-Step Guide

Step 1: Preparing the Ribs

Before you start smoking the ribs, you need to prepare them first. Begin by removing the silver skin from the back of the ribs using a sharp knife. This will allow the smoke and seasoning to penetrate the meat better. Next, rinse the ribs under cold water and pat them dry with paper towels.

Step 2: Applying the Rub

Now it’s time to apply the rub to the ribs. While there are several pre-made rubs you can use, the most basic one is a mixture of brown sugar, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Apply this rub generously onto both sides of the ribs, making sure to massage it into the meat. Once the rub is applied, let the ribs sit at room temperature for up to 30 minutes.

Step 3: Setting up the Smoker

While your ribs are resting, it’s essential to set up your smoker. First, build a charcoal fire and get the temperature up to 225-250°F. Next, add wood chunks, such as hickory or cherry, to the firebox. The wood will add a smoky flavor to the ribs and enhance their overall taste.

Step 4: Smoking the Ribs

Once your smoker is ready, it’s time to smoke the ribs. Place the ribs bone-side down on the grates, close the lid, and let them smoke for about three hours. During this time, you can spray the ribs with apple juice every half hour to keep them moist.

Step 5: Applying the Sauce

After three hours, it’s time to apply the sauce. Using a basting brush, apply the barbecue sauce to both sides of the ribs, then wrap them in aluminum foil. Place them back on the grates and let them cook for another hour.

Step 6: Checking for Doneness

After four hours of smoking, it’s crucial to check the ribs’ internal temperature to ensure they’re fully cooked. The temperature should read around 205°F when they’re ready. Once they reach the desired temperature, remove them from the smoker, unwrap them, and let them rest for about 10 minutes to allow the juices to redistribute.

Equipment Used in the Video

The video mentioned at the beginning of this article features an Oklahoma Joe’s Highland Offset Smoker and uses the following equipment:

• 100% All-Natural Hardwood Charcoal
• Eco-Friendly Fire Starters
• Hickory Wood Chunks
• Meat Thermometer
• Basting Brush
• Aluminum Foil

All these products can be purchased on Amazon using the provided affiliate links.

Conclusion

Smoking St. Louis-style ribs on your Oklahoma Joe’s Highland Smoker is a great way to enjoy a delicious barbecue meal with friends and family. Proper preparation, along with the right equipment and technique, can make sure your ribs come out juicy and tender every time. With a little practice, you can become a master at smoking ribs and enjoy mouth-watering barbecue all year round.

FAQs

1. Can I use any type of wood to smoke ribs?
   Yes, you can use any wood chunk that you prefer. Hickory and cherry are two popular choices, but apple, mesquite, or oak can also work well.

2. Do I need to wrap the ribs in aluminum foil?
   Wrapping the ribs in foil helps to maintain the moisture and flavor of the meat. However, if you prefer a crispy bark, you can skip this step.

3. Can I use a gas grill to smoke ribs?
   While it’s possible to use a gas grill for smoking, it’s not ideal as it is more difficult to regulate the temperature and maintain a consistent smoky flavor.

4. How do I know if the ribs are cooked through?
   Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the ribs. They should be around 205°F when they’re ready.

5. Can I make my own rub at home?
   Yes, you can make your own rub using ingredients like brown sugar, barbecue seasoning, paprika, garlic, and salt. Feel free to experiment with different spices and herbs to create your own unique blend.