Maryland Eastern Shore BBQ Ribs on the Arteflame Grill

Introduction

Nothing beats the bold, tangy flavors of Maryland Eastern Shore BBQ Ribs slow-grilled to perfection. This recipe brings out the best of vinegary barbecue sauce while keeping the pork ribs juicy and tender. By searing them on the Arteflame’s center grill grate at 1,000F, we lock in flavor before finishing them on the flat cooktop. The result? Ribs that are caramelized on the outside and fall-off-the-bone tender inside.

Ingredients

• 2 full racks of pork spare ribs
• 2 tbsp kosher salt
• 1 tbsp black pepper
• 1 tbsp smoked paprika
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp onion powder
• 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper
• 2 cups apple cider vinegar
• 1/2 cup yellow mustard
• 1/4 cup brown sugar
• 2 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
• 1 tbsp butter

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Arteflame Grill

1. Pour some vegetable oil on three paper napkins.
2. Place the napkins in the center of the grill and stack firewood over them.
3. Light the napkins and allow the grill to heat for about 20 minutes.

Step 2: Season the Ribs

1. Pat the ribs dry with paper towels.
2. Mix the salt, black pepper, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and cayenne pepper.
3. Rub the seasoning mix evenly over both sides of the ribs.

Step 3: Sear the Ribs

1. Place the ribs on the center grill grate and sear for 2-3 minutes per side to lock in juices.

Step 4: Cook the Ribs on the Flat Cooktop

1. Move the seared ribs to the outer flat cooktop, closer to the edge for lower heat.
2. Cook for 45-50 minutes, flipping occasionally.

Step 5: Prepare the BBQ Sauce

1. Mix apple cider vinegar, yellow mustard, brown sugar, and Worcestershire sauce.
2. Place the sauce on the flat cooktop near the edge and allow it to warm.

Step 6: Glaze and Finish the Ribs

1. Brush the ribs with the warm vinegar-based BBQ sauce.
2. Cook for another 10 minutes until caramelized.
3. Remove the ribs when the internal temperature is about 195F (they will continue to cook off the grill).

Tips

• Let the ribs rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing to retain juices.
• Use hickory or oak wood for a richer smoky flavor.
• Brush the ribs with extra sauce just before serving for added moisture.
• Adjust the heat by moving the ribs closer or further from the center grill grate.

Variations

1. Honey Mustard Ribs: Swap yellow mustard with Dijon and add 2 tbsp honey for a sweeter twist.
2. Spicy Chipotle Ribs: Add 1 tbsp chipotle powder to the seasoning for an extra kick.
3. Maple Bourbon Ribs: Replace brown sugar with maple syrup and add 2 tbsp bourbon to the sauce.
4. Kansas City Style Ribs: Use a sweet and smoky tomato-based BBQ sauce instead of the vinegar one.
5. Applewood Smoked Ribs: Use applewood chunks for a mild yet sweet smoke infusion.

Best Pairings

• Grilled corn on the cob with butter
• Smoky baked beans
• Coleslaw with apple cider vinegar
• Crispy sweet potato fries
• A cold Maryland beer

Conclusion

These Maryland Eastern Shore BBQ Ribs cooked on an Arteflame grill will leave you with irresistible, smoky, and tangy flavors. By mastering the technique of searing on the center grill grate at 1,000F and finishing on the flat cooktop, you ensure tender, perfectly caramelized ribs every time.