How to Grill Country Style Ribs Quickly

Grilling country-style ribs can be a flavorful and satisfying experience. These ribs, cut from the blade end of the pork loin or the shoulder, are meatier than traditional ribs, making them ideal for hearty meals. However, their thickness and connective tissues can make them challenging to cook quickly while maintaining tenderness and juiciness. If you’re short on time but still want delicious, smoky, and tender country-style ribs, the right techniques can help you speed up the grilling process without compromising on flavor.

This guide will walk you through the best strategies to grill country-style ribs quickly, from selecting the right cut to using high-heat methods and pre-cooking techniques for optimal results.

Choosing the Right Ribs

Before you fire up the grill, choosing the right ribs is essential. Country-style ribs come in both bone-in and boneless varieties, each with its own advantages.

• Bone-in ribs: These ribs tend to have more flavor due to the presence of the bone, which helps retain moisture. However, they take slightly longer to cook.
• Boneless ribs: These are easier to grill quickly because they are more uniform in shape and cook faster without the bone.

When selecting ribs, look for well-marbled cuts with a good balance of meat and fat. Marbling helps keep the ribs juicy and flavorful, especially when grilling at high heat. Opt for thinner cuts if you’re aiming for a quicker cooking time.

Prepping the Ribs for Quick Grilling

Proper preparation is crucial when grilling country-style ribs quickly. Follow these steps to speed up the cooking process:

1. Trim Excess Fat (If Necessary)

While some fat is essential for flavor, too much can cause flare-ups on the grill. Trim any large sections of fat to prevent uneven cooking.

2. Flatten the Ribs for Even Cooking

If your ribs are particularly thick, use a meat mallet to slightly flatten them. This ensures that they cook evenly and reduces overall grilling time.

3. Use a Quick Marinade or Dry Rub

To enhance flavor without a long marination time, use a dry rub or a quick marinade:

• Dry rub: A mix of salt, pepper, smoked paprika, garlic powder, and brown sugar works well. Apply it generously and let the ribs sit for at least 15-20 minutes before grilling.
• Quick marinade: Combine olive oil, apple cider vinegar, soy sauce, and honey for a speedy marinade that penetrates the meat in just 30 minutes.

4. Let the Ribs Rest at Room Temperature

Allow the ribs to rest outside the refrigerator for 20-30 minutes before grilling. This prevents them from cooking unevenly due to temperature shock when placed on the grill.

Techniques for Fast Grilling

Now that your ribs are prepped, it’s time to fire up the grill. Here are three effective techniques to cook country-style ribs quickly:

Option 1: High-Heat Grilling (Direct Method)

This method is best for those who want a quick, smoky char on their ribs:

1. Preheat the grill to 400-450°F.
2. Sear the ribs directly over the flame for 2-3 minutes per side to develop a flavorful crust.
3. Move to indirect heat and close the lid, allowing the ribs to cook for another 10-15 minutes until they reach the desired internal temperature.

Option 2: Parboiling or Pre-Cooking

Pre-cooking your ribs before grilling is an excellent way to speed up the process while ensuring tenderness:

1. Simmer the ribs in a pot of seasoned broth or beer for 10-15 minutes. This helps break down tough fibers.
2. Pat dry the ribs and coat them with a dry rub or sauce.
3. Grill over high heat for 5-7 minutes per side until nicely charred.

Option 3: Butterflied Ribs

For extra-thick cuts, butterflying (splitting them lengthwise) can reduce cooking time:

1. Slice the ribs lengthwise to create thinner pieces.
2. Grill over medium-high heat (375-400°F) for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through.

Checking for Doneness

Cooking country-style ribs to the right temperature is key for safety and texture. Use a meat thermometer to ensure proper doneness:

• 145°F: Safe for consumption, but may still be slightly firm.
• 160-165°F: More tender and juicy, ideal for quick grilling.
• 175°F+: Extra tender, but may require slower cooking techniques.

Aside from temperature, check for a slightly charred exterior and firm yet springy texture when pressed.

Serving Suggestions

Once your ribs are grilled to perfection, consider these serving ideas:

1. Saucing Techniques

If using barbecue sauce, apply it during the last 5 minutes of grilling to prevent burning. Brush on a thin layer, allowing it to caramelize without charring too much.

2. Best Side Dishes for Quick Ribs

Pair your ribs with quick and flavorful sides such as:

• Coleslaw: Adds a refreshing crunch.
• Grilled corn on the cob: A classic BBQ staple.
• Baked beans: A smoky, hearty addition.

3. Optional Garnishes

Finish your ribs with fresh herbs, a squeeze of lemon, or a sprinkle of flaky salt to enhance flavor.

Conclusion

Grilling country-style ribs quickly is all about the right preparation and technique. Whether you choose high-heat grilling, parboiling, or butterflying, these methods help you achieve juicy, flavorful ribs in less time. By selecting the right cut, using quick marinades, and monitoring the internal temperature, you can enjoy delicious ribs without waiting hours for them to cook.

With these strategies, you’ll be able to grill country-style ribs efficiently while still achieving that mouthwatering, smoky flavor. So fire up the grill, get your favorite seasonings ready, and enjoy a fast yet satisfying BBQ feast.