How Long Does It Take to Cook Ribs at 150 Degrees?
If you’re a fan of juicy, tender, fall-off-the-bone ribs, you know that cooking them to perfection takes time and patience. While there are many different methods for cooking ribs, one popular approach is low and slow cooking at 150 degrees Fahrenheit. This method allows the meat to cook slowly without drying out or becoming tough.
In this article, we’ll take a closer look at how long it takes to cook ribs at 150 degrees, as well as tips for seasoning, setting up your grill or smoker, and finishing touches. We’ll also answer some common questions about cooking ribs at lower temperatures. Let’s get started!
Prepping and Seasoning Ribs
Before you start cooking your ribs, it’s important to choose the right cut of meat. For low and slow cooking, choose cuts like spareribs or baby back ribs that have more fat and connective tissue. These cuts will become incredibly tender when cooked slowly at a lower temperature.
Next, remove the membrane from the underside of the ribs. This tough layer can prevent seasoning from penetrating the meat and can make it harder for the meat to cook evenly. Use a blunt knife or butter knife to loosen the membrane on one end of the ribs, then grab it with a paper towel and pull it off in one piece.
When it comes to seasoning your ribs, there are endless options. Some people prefer a simple salt and pepper rub, while others like to use a combination of spices like paprika, chili powder, garlic powder, and brown sugar. You can also use a pre-made rub or marinade if you’re short on time.
After seasoning your ribs, be sure to let them rest for at least 15-30 minutes. This will allow the meat to absorb the flavors and will help it cook more evenly.
Setting Up Your Grill or Smoker
Cooking ribs at 150 degrees Fahrenheit requires indirect heat, which means setting up your grill or smoker differently than you would for direct heat cooking. To set up your grill or smoker for indirect heat:
- If using a charcoal grill, stack the charcoal on one side of the grill and put a drip pan on the other side. If using a gas grill, turn off one or more burners to create a cooler side of the grill.
- Place soaked wood chips in a smoker box or directly on the coals to add smoke flavor to your ribs.
- Put your seasoned ribs on the cooler side of the grill or smoker, not directly over the heat source. Close the lid and adjust vents as needed to maintain a temperature around 150 degrees Fahrenheit.
It’s important to monitor the temperature regularly throughout the cooking process, using a thermometer to ensure that it stays consistent. Fluctuating temperatures can lead to uneven cooking and dry meat.
Cooking Ribs at 150 Degrees
The amount of time it takes to cook ribs at 150 degrees depends on several factors, including the size and type of ribs, as well as how well-insulated your grill or smoker is. In general, it can take anywhere from 4-6 hours for spareribs and 2-3 hours for baby back ribs.
However, it’s important to keep in mind that every cut of meat is different, so it’s crucial to use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of your ribs. When cooking between 140-165 degrees Fahrenheit, the texture of the meat dramatically changes. Ribs are generally finished and tender when they reach an internal temperature of 190 degrees Fahrenheit.
When checking the temperature, insert the thermometer straight into the thickest part of the meat, avoiding any bones. Be sure to also check multiple ribs in different areas, as some parts may cook faster than others.
Finishing Touches
Once your ribs are cooked to perfection, you may want to add some extra flavor with a glaze or basting. Try brushing on your favorite barbecue sauce or mixing up a simple concoction of honey and apple cider vinegar.
It’s also important to let your ribs rest for at least 10-15 minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat and will help prevent dryness when cutting into them.
When it’s time to slice and serve your ribs, be sure to cut between each bone rather than through them. This will allow the meat to come away from the bone easily and will give your guests larger, more appetizing pieces of meat.
Tips for Perfectly Cooked Ribs
- Plan ahead: Low and slow cooking takes time, so be sure to plan ahead and start early.
- Avoid opening the grill or smoker too often: Every time you open the lid, heat escapes and can cause fluctuations in temperature.
- Properly store leftovers: If you have leftover ribs, be sure to refrigerate them within two hours of cooking.
Cooking Ribs on Different Equipment
If you don’t have a grill or smoker, don’t worry! You can still cook delicious low and slow ribs using other equipment like a crockpot or oven. Adjust the cooking times and temperature based on the equipment you’re using, but the process is generally the same.
FAQs about Cooking Ribs at 150 Degrees
- Is it safe to cook ribs at only 150 degrees? Yes, it is safe to cook ribs at a lower temperature like 150 degrees Fahrenheit as long as they reach an internal temperature of 190 degrees Fahrenheit.
- Can I add wood chips while cooking? Yes, you can add soaked wood chips to your grill or smoker during the cooking process to add smoke flavor to your ribs.
- Should I wrap my ribs in foil while cooking? Wrapping your ribs in foil is not necessary for low and slow cooking, but it can speed up the cooking process and make them more tender by trapping in moisture.
Conclusion
Cooking ribs at 150 degrees requires patience and attention to detail, but it’s well worth the effort when you taste the tender, flavorful results. By following these tips for prepping, seasoning, and cooking your ribs, you can impress your guests with perfectly cooked barbecue every time. Have fun experimenting with different rubs and glazes, and be sure to share your own tips and experiences in the comments!
Frequently Asked Questions
#### 1. Can you really cook ribs at just 150 degrees?
Yes! Low and slow is the way to go when it comes to cooking ribs and a temperature of 150 degrees Fahrenheit is perfect for achieving that fall-off-the-bone tenderness.
#### 2. How long do I need to cook the ribs at this temperature?
The cooking time will vary depending on the size of your ribs, but as a general rule of thumb, you can expect them to take anywhere between 6-8 hours. Remember to keep an eye on them and check for doneness using a meat thermometer.
#### 3. What kind of ribs work best for this cooking method?
You can use any type of pork ribs for this cooking method, but we recommend using spare ribs as they have more fat and connective tissue which will break down beautifully at low temperatures.
#### 4. Should I use any additional seasonings or sauces while cooking my ribs?
It’s up to you! Some people like to add dry rubs or marinades before cooking their ribs at low temperatures, while others prefer to keep things simple with just a little bit of salt and pepper. Additionally, you can choose to baste your ribs with your favorite barbecue sauce during the last hour of cooking for an added flavor boost.
