How Long To Grill Beef Short Ribs On Charcoal Grill? Helpful
Are you looking for the perfect summertime meal? Beef short ribs are a savory and delicious solution that’s sure to please your taste buds. But if you’re planning on grilling them, it can be tricky to know how long to grill beef short ribs on charcoal grill. Whether you’re using a charcoal or gas grill, there are some important factors to consider when cooking beef short ribs. We’ll discuss all of these considerations in this post so that you can master grilling beef short ribs without hassle.
Grilling beef short ribs on a charcoal grill is an art form that combines technique, timing, and passion to create a culinary masterpiece. With the resurgence of traditional grilling methods, charcoal grilling offers a unique flavor and an unmatched grilling experience. The intricate dance of flames and smoke, when harnessed correctly, can transform beef short ribs into a succulent, fall-off-the-bone delight that captivates the palate. This article is crafted by grill masters who have spent years perfecting their craft, eager to share their expertise on how long to grill beef short ribs on charcoal grill.
Understanding the nuances of grilling beef short ribs on a charcoal grill is crucial for both novices and seasoned grillers. It’s not merely about the duration but understanding the temperature, the type of ribs, and how to prepare them for grilling that makes all the difference. We delve into the science and art behind grilling, offering insights into the preparation, cooking times, and techniques that ensure your beef short ribs are nothing short of spectacular.
As you embark on this grilling journey, we aim to not only educate but also inspire you to explore the depths of charcoal grilling. Whether you’re looking to impress at your next barbecue or simply want to elevate your grilling game, this article is your gateway to becoming a charcoal grill aficionado. Join us as we unlock the secrets to grilling beef short ribs to perfection, making every bite a testament to the power of fire and smoke.
Contents
What Are Beef Short Ribs?
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Beef short ribs are a popular cut of meat that come from the lower portion of the cow’s ribcage. These ribs consist of a meaty strip on one side and a bone on the other, making them perfect for grilling. They can be found in two different forms: English cut and Flanken cut. The English cut is when the ribs are sliced horizontally, while the Flanken cut is when the ribs are cut vertically.
Beef Short Ribs Grilling Time Estimate
The estimated total time to grill beef short ribs on a charcoal grill is 3.5 hours. This allows for preparation, grilling setup with indirect heat, and sufficient time over the coals for tender, fall-off-the-bone ribs. Cooking times can vary based on the size and thickness of ribs, grill temperature, and desired doneness.
Here is a typical timeline
- Preparation: 20-30 minutes
- Grill Setup: 10-20 minutes
- Active Cooking Time: 2-3 hours
- Rest Time: 15 minutes
Follow the guide below for a foolproof backyard barbecue feast.
Ingredients Needed
A classic barbecue flavor starts with the right ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need:
The Essentials
- Beef short ribs – Look for racks of meaty ribs around 3-4 pounds. Individual bone-in ribs work too.
- Charcoal – Opt for a premium hardwood charcoal like Kingsford® Original for even heating and authentic smoke flavor.
- Dry rub – A homemade blend of spices and herbs adds a flavorful crust.
- BBQ sauce (optional) – For basting and serving. A sweet tomato-based sauce works well with beef.
- Wood chunks (optional) – Soak flavorful woods like hickory, oak, or mesquite for an extra smoky taste.
Other Handy Items
- Instant-read thermometer – Tests doneness of meat accurately.
- Tongs – For easily flipping and moving the ribs.
- Oven mitts – For protecting hands from the heat.
- Cooler – Lets meat rest after cooking.
Step-By-Step Grilling Guide
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Follow these simple steps for incredible barbecue ribs every time:
1. Prep the Ribs (20-30 minutes)
- Remove ribs from packaging and let come to room temperature, about 30 minutes.
- Use a sharp knife to trim off any excess fat or sinew.
- Scoring the ribs – Use a knife to cut shallow slashes across the ribs. This helps the rub penetrate deeper.
- Make the dry rub. A classic blend includes salt, pepper, brown sugar, chili powder, garlic powder, and paprika.
- Generously season both sides of the ribs with the dry rub. Press rub into the slashes.
2. Set Up Grill for Indirect Heat (10-20 minutes)
- Use the two-zone fire method. Pile charcoal on one side of grill.
- Light coals and let flames die down until covered in gray ash. This takes 10-20 minutes.
- Target temperature: 275°F on cooler side for low, indirect heat.
- If using wood chunks, add them to the charcoal about 5 minutes before grilling for light smoke flavor.
- Oil the grill grates to prevent sticking.
3. Grill the Ribs (2-3 hours)
- Place ribs bone-side down on the cooler side of the grill, not directly over coals.
- Close lid and cook for 1.5 hours, maintaining temperature around 275°F.
- Check internal temperature after 1.5 hours. Meat should reach:
- 160°F for medium-rare
- 170°F for medium
- 180°F for well-done
- If needed, continue grilling up to 1 more hour until ribs reach desired temperature.
- Monitor ribs and manage flare-ups by moving or spraying water as needed.
- After first 1.5 hours, start basting ribs with BBQ sauce or remainder of dry rub mixture every 20-30 minutes (optional).
4. Wrap Ribs in Foil (1 hour)
- Once ribs are partially cooked, wrap them tightly in heavy-duty aluminum foil.
- Add some liquid like beer, apple juice, or water to the foil packet. This keeps ribs moist.
- Return foil-wrapped ribs to grill for about 1 more hour.
5. Check for Doneness
- Unwrap foil packet and test ribs for doneness using an instant-read thermometer, checking in a few places.
- Ribs should reach 205°F when done. The meat should look very tender and shrink away from the ends of the bones.
6. Let Ribs Rest (15 minutes)
- Remove ribs from grill and loosely cover with foil. Let rest 15 minutes.
- This allows juices to reabsorb for moist, tender ribs.
7. Slice and Serve Hot
- Use a sharp knife to slice between each rib.
- Serve ribs hot, paired with sides like cornbread, beans, coleslaw, or cornbread.
- Offer extra barbecue sauce on the side. Dig in.
Grilling Tips and Tricks
Here are some handy tips to help ensure barbecue success:
- Invest in a good digital meat thermometer to monitor doneness precisely.
- Opt for an instant-read thermometer for quick, accurate checks.
- Slice ribs following the scored lines for neat, individual ribs.
- Save any leftover defatted pan juices to drizzle over ribs for extra moisture.
- For gas grills, use indirect heat by turning off the burner under the ribs. Add wood chips to a smoker box for flavor.
- Keep the grill’s temperature steady between 250-300°F for even cooking.
- Spray water on flaming flare-ups or move ribs temporarily until flames die down.
Grilling Safety
Exercise caution when working with an open flame:
- Never leave hot coals or a fired up grill unattended.
- Use proper tools like tongs and mitts for handling hot food.
- Keep children and pets away from the grill.
- Dispose of cooled coals and ashes properly by dousing with water.
- Wash hands, utensils, and surfaces that touched raw meat to avoid cross-contamination.
With the right preparation and tools, you’ll be hosting incredible barbecue gatherings in your own backyard. Impress your family with scrumptious smoked beef short ribs using this complete grilling guide. The tantalizing aroma of ribs on the grill is sure to bring everyone running. Dig into finger-lickin’ ribs bursting with authentic charcoal and wood flavor in just 3.5 short hours.
Harmony Saunders is the CEO and founder of Bamboo Wok, a family-owned and operated Chinese restaurant that has been serving the Manvel, Rosharon, and Alvin communities for more than nine years. Our delicious dishes are made from scratch with the best ingredients, vegetables are fresh cut daily in our kitchen, and poultry is delivered every two days.
So whether you’re craving Chinese food for the family or need catering for your next event, please give us a try! We know you won’t be disappointed with our fresh, authentic Asian fare.