Summertime is the perfect season for firing up the grill and enjoying delicious barbecue. When it comes to ribs, slow cooking them on a gas grill can produce tender, flavorful results that will delight your taste buds. While using a gas grill might not be the traditional method for cooking ribs, it offers convenience and control over the cooking temperature. With a few simple steps, you can achieve mouthwatering ribs that are falling-off-the-bone tender.

Before you start cooking, you’ll need to prepare your ribs. Start by removing the thin membrane on the back of the ribs. This can be done by inserting a butter knife under the membrane and lifting it up. Then, using a paper towel for grip, pull the membrane off completely. Removing the membrane allows the flavors to penetrate the meat and ensures a more tender result.

Next, season your ribs with your favorite dry rub. A combination of salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika makes a great base. Feel free to experiment with different spices and herbs to customize the flavor to your liking. Massage the dry rub into the ribs, ensuring that they are evenly coated on both sides. Let the ribs sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.

Now it’s time to preheat your gas grill. Start by cleaning the grates and ensuring that they are free from any leftover debris. Then, preheat your grill to a low temperature of around 225°F (107°C). It’s important to cook the ribs low and slow to achieve that irresistible tenderness. Once the grill is preheated, you’re ready to start cooking your ribs.

Tips for Slow Cooking Ribs on the Gas Grill

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When it comes to delicious, fall-off-the-bone ribs, slow cooking on the gas grill is the way to go. Follow these tips to achieve tender and flavorful ribs every time:

1. Choose the Right Ribs

There are various types of ribs available, but for slow cooking on the gas grill, baby back ribs or spare ribs are popular choices. Baby back ribs are meaty and tender, while spare ribs have more fat and connective tissues, making them great for slow cooking.

2. Prepare the Ribs

Before cooking, remove the membrane from the back of the ribs for better flavor penetration. Season the ribs generously with a dry rub, or marinate them in your favorite barbecue sauce for a few hours to overnight.

3. Preheat the Grill

Preheat your gas grill to around 225°F (107°C) for low and slow cooking. Place a drip pan filled with water or apple juice under the grates to maintain moisture and prevent flare-ups.

4. Set Up Indirect Heat

Create a two-zone cooking setup by turning off one or two burners on your gas grill. Place the ribs on the side with no direct heat to ensure slow and even cooking. Close the grill lid to trap the heat and smoke.

5. Maintain Low Temperature

Monitor and adjust the gas grill’s temperature throughout the cooking process to keep it consistent. Use a grilling thermometer to check the internal temperature of the ribs, which should reach around 195°F (90°C) for fall-off-the-bone tenderness.

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6. Add Smoke Flavor

If desired, add wood chips or chunks to create smoky flavor. Soak the wood chips in water for about 30 minutes and then place them in a smoker box or wrap them in aluminum foil with holes poked in it. Position the smoke pack above the lit burners.

7. Baste and Wrap

After a few hours of cooking, baste the ribs with barbecue sauce or apple cider to enhance moisture and flavor. If you prefer saucy ribs, wrap them tightly in aluminum foil and cook for another hour or so.

8. Rest and Serve

Once the ribs are cooked to perfection, remove them from the grill and let them rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute and ensures juicy, succulent meat. Serve the ribs with additional barbecue sauce on the side.

By following these tips, you’ll be able to impress your friends and family with perfectly cooked, tender ribs that are packed with flavor. Enjoy!

Choosing the Right Ribs

When it comes to cooking ribs on a gas grill, selecting the right type of ribs is crucial to achieving the best results. There are different types of ribs available, each with its own taste and characteristics. Here are a few factors to consider when choosing the right ribs for slow cooking on a gas grill:

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1. Spare Ribs

Spare ribs are larger and meatier than baby back ribs. They come from the lower belly and have a higher fat content, which makes them ideal for slow cooking. Spare ribs have a rich flavor and tend to be more tender when cooked low and slow on a gas grill.

2. Baby Back Ribs

Also known as loin back ribs, baby back ribs are smaller and leaner compared to spare ribs. They come from the upper part of the pig’s ribcage and are typically more expensive. Baby back ribs are known for their tenderness and slightly sweeter flavor. They are a popular choice for grilling and can be slow-cooked on a gas grill to achieve a melt-in-your-mouth texture.

Regardless of the type of ribs you choose, it’s important to look for ribs that have a good amount of meat on them and are evenly marbled with fat. This helps ensure that the ribs stay moist and flavorful during the slow cooking process on the gas grill.

Preparing the Grill

Before cooking the ribs, it’s important to properly prepare the gas grill. Here are a few steps to follow:

1. Clean the grill: Start by thoroughly cleaning the grates and the inside of the grill. Use a wire brush to remove any residue or leftover food from previous cooking sessions.

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2. Preheat the grill: Turn on the gas grill and preheat it to a medium-low temperature of around 250°F (120°C). This will ensure a slow and even cooking process for the ribs.

3. Set up indirect heat: If your gas grill has multiple burners, only light one or two of them. This will create an indirect heat zone where the ribs can cook slowly. Place a drip pan under the grates of the grill to catch any drippings and prevent flare-ups.

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4. Add flavor: For added flavor, you can place some wood chips or chunks in a smoker box or wrap them in aluminum foil and poke some holes in it. This will create a smoky flavor that will enhance the taste of the ribs.

5. Control the temperature: Throughout the cooking process, it’s important to monitor and control the temperature of the grill. Adjust the burners accordingly to maintain a steady temperature of around 250°F (120°C).

By following these steps to prepare the gas grill, you’ll be ready to slow cook the ribs to perfection.

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Preparing the Ribs

Before you begin slow cooking your ribs on the gas grill, it’s important to properly prepare them. Follow these steps to ensure your ribs turn out tender and flavorful:

1. Trim the Ribs

Start by trimming any excess fat from the ribs. This will prevent the meat from becoming greasy and reduce flare-ups on the grill. Use a sharp knife to carefully remove any large pieces of fat.

2. Remove the Membrane

Next, remove the thin membrane on the back of the ribs. This membrane can be tough and chewy, so it’s best to remove it for a more enjoyable eating experience. Slide a butter knife under the membrane and lift it up. Then, use a paper towel to grip the edge and peel it off in one piece.

3. Season the Ribs

Once the ribs are trimmed and the membrane is removed, it’s time to season them. Use your favorite dry rub or marinade to add flavor to the meat. Apply the seasoning generously, making sure to cover all sides of the ribs.

4. Let the Ribs Rest

After seasoning, let the ribs rest at room temperature for about 30 minutes. This allows the seasoning to penetrate the meat and enhances the flavor.

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5. Preheat the Grill

While the ribs are resting, preheat your gas grill to medium heat. This will ensure that the ribs cook evenly and prevent them from becoming too charred.

6. Optional: Parboil the Ribs

If you prefer your ribs to be extra tender, you can parboil them before grilling. Fill a large pot with water and bring it to a boil. Add the ribs and let them simmer for about 45 minutes. This will help break down the tough connective tissue and make the ribs more tender.

Tip: If you choose to parboil the ribs, make sure to cool them down before seasoning and grilling.

Seasoning the Ribs

Before you start cooking the ribs, it’s important to season them properly. Seasoning the ribs will enhance their flavor and make them taste delicious. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to season your ribs:

Ingredients:

  • 2 racks of pork ribs
  • 2 tablespoons of brown sugar
  • 2 tablespoons of paprika
  • 1 tablespoon of chili powder
  • 1 tablespoon of salt
  • 1 tablespoon of black pepper
  • 1 tablespoon of garlic powder
  • 1 tablespoon of onion powder

Ribs

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Instructions:

  1. Start by patting the ribs dry using paper towels. This will remove any excess moisture.
  2. In a small bowl, mix together the brown sugar, paprika, chili powder, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder.
  3. Coat the ribs evenly with the seasoning mixture, making sure to rub it into the meat for better flavor absorption.
  4. Allow the ribs to sit and marinate in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour, but if you have time, it’s best to let them marinate overnight for maximum flavor.
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Now that your ribs are properly seasoned, they are ready to be slow cooked on the gas grill. Keep reading to learn how to cook them low and slow for tender and juicy ribs.

Q&A

What is the best way to cook ribs on a gas grill?

The best way to cook ribs on a gas grill is to use the slow cooking method. This involves preheating the grill to a low temperature, around 225-250°F, and cooking the ribs indirectly for several hours. This low and slow method allows the ribs to become tender and juicy, while also infusing them with smoky flavor.

How long does it take to slow cook ribs on a gas grill?

The cooking time for slow cooking ribs on a gas grill can vary depending on the thickness of the ribs and the temperature of the grill. Generally, it takes around 3-5 hours to fully cook the ribs. It’s important to cook them low and slow to ensure they become tender and flavorful.

Do I need to marinate the ribs before slow cooking them on the gas grill?

Marinating the ribs before slow cooking them on the gas grill is not necessary, but it can enhance their flavor. If you choose to marinate the ribs, you should do so for at least a few hours or overnight to allow the flavors to penetrate the meat. However, even without a marinade, the slow cooking process will still result in delicious and tender ribs.

Can I use a dry rub on the ribs before slow cooking them on the gas grill?

Using a dry rub on the ribs before slow cooking them on the gas grill is a great way to add flavor. You can create your own dry rub using a combination of spices like paprika, brown sugar, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Simply apply the dry rub to the ribs before cooking and let them sit for a while to allow the flavors to meld. The dry rub will form a delicious crust on the ribs as they cook, adding both texture and taste.

Should I wrap the ribs in foil while slow cooking them on the gas grill?

Wrapping the ribs in foil while slow cooking them on the gas grill is a technique known as the “Texas crutch.” This method helps to keep the ribs moist and tender by trapping in the heat and moisture. If you choose to use this method, you should wrap the ribs in foil after they have been cooking for a couple of hours. However, keep in mind that this will result in softer ribs with less of a crispy crust.