Big Bob Gibson Barbecue Ribs

gailanng's Note:

One of the many Big Bob Gibson rib recipes. Can, also, make in oven.

• Total Time: 4 hrs 30 mins
• Prep Time: 30 mins
• Cook Time: 4 hrs

Ingredients:

Yield: 1 slab ribs

For the ribs

• 2 slabs ribs
• 2 cups apple juice

For the barbecue rub

• 1/2 cup dark brown sugar
• 1/4 cup garlic salt
• 3 1/2 tablespoons onion salt
• 1/4 cup paprika
• 1 tablespoon chili powder
• 1/2 tablespoon cayenne pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

For the sauce

• 2 cups ketchup
• 2/3 cup dark brown sugar
• 1/2 cup distilled vinegar
• 1/2 cup water
• 2 tablespoons honey
• 4 teaspoons Worcestershire sauce
• 4 teaspoons liquid smoke
• 2 teaspoons garlic powder
• 2 teaspoons onion powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
• 1/8 teaspoon celery seed

Directions:

1. To prepare the rub: Combine all rub ingredients in a bowl and stir to mix.
2. Preheat a grill or the oven to 250 degrees F.
3. Place slab of ribs bone side up on table. Slide a knife under the membrane and against the end bone to separate the two. With a dry paper towel or rag, grasp the edge of the thin membrane and pull. The entire membrane should separate from rib. Note: This will result in a more tender rib and will allow your barbecue flavors to better penetrate the meat.
4. Sprinkle 1/4 cup of rub over each slab, front and back. Place ribs, meat side up, on the grill or in the oven for 2 hours. Remove and place each slab on a doubled aluminum foil square, meat side down. Pour 1 cup apple juice over each slab while wrapping tightly in foil. Cook for 1 more hour at 250 degrees F. Remove slabs from foil and sprinkle with another 1/4 cup of rub. Cook an additional 1 hour, uncovered, until ribs are tender.
5. In the meantime, mix together the barbecue sauce ingredients in a saucepan. Stir to mix and bring to a simmer and cook 10-15 minutes. Let sauce cool.
6. To finish: Remove ribs from the grill or oven, paint with finishing glaze and cook for another 15 minutes. Cut and serve with additonal sauce.