Introduction
Enjoy these mouth-watering, Mexican-style BBQ ribs cooked to perfection on the Arteflame grill. The high-temperature sear locks in juiciness, while the flat cooktop ensures slow-cooked tenderness. These ribs are sure to impress your family and friends at your next cookout.
Ingredients
- 1 rack of pork ribs
- 2 tbsp chili powder
- 1 tbsp smoked paprika
- 2 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper
- 2 tbsp brown sugar
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter (melted)
- 1/2 cup Mexican-style BBQ sauce
Instructions
Step 1: Prep the Grill
- Pour vegetable oil onto three paper napkins and place them inside the Arteflame grill.
- Stack firewood over the napkins and light them to start the fire.
- Allow the grill to heat up for about 20 minutes until the center grill grate reaches over 1,000°F.
Step 2: Prepare the Ribs
- Remove the membrane from the back of the ribs for better texture.
- Combine the chili powder, smoked paprika, cumin, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, black pepper, cayenne pepper, and brown sugar in a bowl.
- Brush the ribs with melted butter and generously rub the seasoning all over.
Step 3: Searing the Ribs
- Place the seasoned ribs on the center grill grate for about 2 minutes per side to lock in juices and develop a beautiful crust.
Step 4: Slow Cook on the Flat Cooktop
- Move the seared ribs onto the flat cooktop, positioning them closer to the edge for slower cooking.
- Let them cook for 1.5 to 2 hours, flipping occasionally to ensure even cooking.
- Brush with Mexican-style BBQ sauce in the last 15 minutes of cooking.
Step 5: Rest and Serve
- Remove the ribs from the grill when the internal temperature reaches 195°F.
- Let them rest for 10 minutes to allow the juices to redistribute.
- Slice and serve with extra BBQ sauce.
Tips
- Always let your ribs reach an internal temperature of 195°F for perfect tenderness.
- Cook all your sides on the Arteflame’s flat cooktop while the ribs are slow-cooking.
- Use wood chunks with mild smoke flavors like oak or hickory for an enhanced smoky taste.
- For additional heat, add more cayenne pepper or a drizzle of hot sauce to the rub.
- Resting the ribs properly keeps them juicy and tender.
Variations
-
Chipotle Honey Ribs: Add 2 tbsp honey and 1 tbsp chipotle powder for a smoky-sweet flavor.
-
Garlic Lime Ribs: Add 2 tsp lime zest and 1 tsp minced garlic for a zesty kick.
-
Mango Habanero Ribs: Blend 1/2 cup mango puree with 1 tbsp habanero hot sauce for a tropical heat.
-
Mexican Coffee Ribs: Add 1 tbsp finely ground coffee and 1 tsp cinnamon to the rub for a bold twist.
-
Cocoa-Chili Ribs: Mix 1 tbsp unsweetened cocoa powder with the seasoning blend for a rich depth of flavor.
Best Pairings
- Grilled Mexican street corn (elote)
- Warm flour or corn tortillas
- Smoky black beans
- Fresh guacamole with tortilla chips
- A refreshing hibiscus agua fresca
- A cold Mexican lager or mezcal cocktail
Conclusion
Enjoy these mouth-watering, Mexican-style BBQ ribs cooked to perfection on the Arteflame grill. The high-temperature sear locks in juiciness, while the flat cooktop ensures slow-cooked tenderness. These ribs are sure to impress your family and friends at your next cookout.