Memphis Style Rib Rub

prep time:: 15 min
total time:: 0 Marinate: 4 hours; Grill: 1 1/2 hours

Rub for 2 racks

We like our ribs Memphis-style, using a spicy rub rather than barbecue sauce. This is the closest we’ve found to the classic rub used at the Rendezvous in Memphis

ingredients

RIBS
2 baby back ribs (4-5 lbs)
RUB
2 TBL paprika
1 TBL black pepper
1/4 cup dark brown sugar
1 1/2 tsp salt
1 1/2 tsp celery salt
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp dry mustard
1 tsp cumin
1/4 tsp cayenne pepper
GRILL
2 cups hickory chips, soaked in cold water

directions

1
1. Wash ribs and blot dry. Remove thin papery skin from back of ribs.
2
2. Combine ingredients for the rub in a medium mixing bowl and stir with a fork. Rub 2/3 of mixture onto both sides of ribs. Transfer to a roasting pan and place in fridge to marinate 4 hours or overnight.
3
3. Meanwhile, set-up grill for indirect heat and place drip pan in middle. For gas grill, place wood chips in smoker box and preheat on high, turning down to medium when chips start to smoke. For charcoal grill, toss wood chips on coals.
4
5. Place ribs on rack over drip pan and cover grill. Cook until grilled through, 1-1/4 to 1-1/2 hours, turning as needed.