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Flavorful Smoky Chipotle Dry-Rub Baby Back Ribs Easy BBQ Recipe

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These baby back ribs are coated with a smoky, spicy chipotle dry rub that creates a crispy, tender crust. Perfect for BBQ rookies and grill veterans alike, they deliver balanced flavor with minimal fuss.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 racks baby back ribs (about 3 to 4 pounds / 1.4 to 1.8 kg), trimmed of excess fat and membrane removed
  • 2 tablespoons chipotle chili powder
  • 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
  • 2 tablespoons brown sugar, packed
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper, freshly cracked
  • 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil or neutral oil
  • Aluminum foil for wrapping

Instructions

  1. Remove the silver skin membrane from the back of the ribs by sliding a butter knife under it and peeling it off with a paper towel. Trim excess fat if needed.
  2. In a mixing bowl, combine chipotle chili powder, smoked paprika, brown sugar, garlic powder, onion powder, cumin, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper if using. Mix well until evenly blended.
  3. Lightly brush both sides of the ribs with olive oil to help the rub stick and promote caramelization.
  4. Sprinkle the dry rub generously on both sides of the ribs, pressing it in with your hands.
  5. Preheat the grill for indirect heat at around 275°F (135°C). If using wood chips, soak them for 30 minutes beforehand and add to coals or smoker box.
  6. Place the ribs bone side down on the cooler side of the grill. Close the lid and maintain temperature between 275°F to 300°F (135°C to 150°C). Every 45 minutes, spritz with apple juice or water to keep moist if desired.
  7. Optional: About two hours into cooking, wrap the ribs tightly in foil and continue cooking for 30 minutes to steam and tenderize.
  8. Unwrap ribs carefully and place over direct heat for 10-15 minutes, turning a few times to crisp up the crust. Watch closely to avoid burning.
  9. Let ribs rest for 10 minutes before slicing between the bones to allow juices to redistribute.

Notes

Remove the membrane for tender ribs. Maintain steady grill temperature and avoid opening the lid too often. Soak wood chips for better smoke without flare-ups. Use hands to apply rub for even coverage. Wrapping ribs in foil (Texas Crutch) tenderizes but don’t leave wrapped too long or crust will soften. Let ribs rest before slicing to keep juices.

Nutrition

Keywords: baby back ribs, chipotle dry rub, BBQ ribs, smoky ribs, easy BBQ recipe, grilled ribs, smoky chipotle, summer BBQ, dry rub ribs

Find it online: https://dahliadishes.com/flavorful-smoky-chipotle-dry-rub-baby-back-ribs-easy-bbq-recipe/