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

1. Pour vegetable oil onto three paper napkins and place them inside the Arteflame grill.
2. Stack firewood over the napkins and light them to start the fire.
3. 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

1. Remove the membrane from the back of the ribs for better texture.
2. Combine the chili powder, smoked paprika, cumin, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, black pepper, cayenne pepper, and brown sugar in a bowl.
3. Brush the ribs with melted butter and generously rub the seasoning all over.

Step 3: Searing the Ribs

1. 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

1. Move the seared ribs onto the flat cooktop, positioning them closer to the edge for slower cooking.
2. Let them cook for 1.5 to 2 hours, flipping occasionally to ensure even cooking.
3. Brush with Mexican-style BBQ sauce in the last 15 minutes of cooking.

Step 5: Rest and Serve

1. Remove the ribs from the grill when the internal temperature reaches 195°F.
2. Let them rest for 10 minutes to allow the juices to redistribute.
3. 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

1. Chipotle Honey Ribs: Add 2 tbsp honey and 1 tbsp chipotle powder for a smoky-sweet flavor.
2. Garlic Lime Ribs: Add 2 tsp lime zest and 1 tsp minced garlic for a zesty kick.
3. Mango Habanero Ribs: Blend 1/2 cup mango puree with 1 tbsp habanero hot sauce for a tropical heat.
4. Mexican Coffee Ribs: Add 1 tbsp finely ground coffee and 1 tsp cinnamon to the rub for a bold twist.
5. Cocoa-Chili Ribs: Mix 1 tbsp unsweetened cocoa powder with the seasoning blend for a rich depth of flavor.

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.

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