Mastering The Grill: How To Cook Ribs On Gas Grill In Foil?

To cook ribs on a gas grill in foil, first, choose the type of ribs you prefer, remove the membrane, and season them. Then, wrap the ribs tightly in foil, place them on the grill, and cook for 2-2.5 hours at medium-high heat. Finish by removing the foil, brushing with barbecue sauce, and grilling for 5-10 minutes.

Choosing the Ribs

The first step in cooking ribs on a gas grill in foil is choosing the right type of ribs. There are two main types of ribs: baby back ribs and spare ribs. Baby back ribs are smaller and leaner than spare ribs, and are typically more tender and flavorful. Spare ribs, on the other hand, are larger and fattier, and are often used for barbecue. Both types of ribs can be cooked on a gas grill in foil, but baby back ribs are generally easier to work with and more forgiving.

Preparing the Ribs

Before you can cook your ribs, you’ll need to prepare them. Start by removing the membrane from the back of the ribs. This can be done by loosening one end of the membrane with a butter knife, then using a paper towel to grip the membrane and pull it off. Next, season the ribs with your favorite dry rub or marinade. Be sure to cover both sides of the ribs evenly.

Wrapping the Ribs in Foil

Once your ribs are seasoned, it’s time to wrap them in foil. This will help to keep the ribs moist and tender while they cook. Start by tearing off a large sheet of heavy-duty aluminum foil. Place the ribs in the center of the foil, then fold the sides of the foil up and over the ribs, creating a tight seal. Be sure to leave a small opening at the top of the foil to allow steam to escape.

Cooking the Ribs on the Grill

Now it’s time to cook your ribs on the grill. Preheat your gas grill to medium-high heat. Once the grill is hot, place the foil-wrapped ribs on the grill grates. Close the lid of the grill and let the ribs cook for 2-2.5 hours, or until the internal temperature of the meat reaches 145°F. Be sure to check the ribs occasionally to make sure they’re not burning or drying out.

Finishing the Ribs

Once your ribs are fully cooked, it’s time to finish them off. Remove the foil-wrapped ribs from the grill and carefully open the foil. Brush the ribs with your favorite barbecue sauce, then place them back on the grill for 5-10 minutes to allow the sauce to caramelize. Remove the ribs from the grill and let them rest for a few minutes before slicing and serving.

Serving Tips

When serving ribs that are cooked on a gas grill, there are several delicious and classic accompaniments to consider. Here are a few serving suggestions:

1. Classic BBQ sides like baked beans, coleslaw, and corn on the cob.
2. Garlic bread or dinner rolls for soaking up any leftover sauce.
3. Grilled vegetables such as zucchini, peppers, and onions.
4. A refreshing salad, such as a cucumber and tomato salad or a simple green salad.
5. Cold beverages, such as beer or iced tea, to wash it all down.

Enjoy your delicious ribs with these tasty sides and drinks for a satisfying meal.

How do you know when they are done?

You can tell when ribs are done by using the bend test. When the ribs are almost done, gently pick them up with tongs and give them a slight bend. If they begin to crack slightly and the meat starts to pull away from the bone, they are done. You can also use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the ribs, which should be around 195-203°F for fully cooked, tender ribs.

How long does it take to cook ribs on a gas grill in foil?

It takes approximately 2-2.5 hours to cook ribs on a gas grill in foil. The exact cooking time depends on the thickness of the ribs, the temperature of the grill, and the desired level of tenderness. It is important to cook the ribs low and slow to ensure that they are tender and flavorful. After the initial cooking time, the ribs are unwrapped, brushed with sauce, and grilled for an additional 5-10 minutes to caramelize the sauce and give them a crispy finish.

Should I wrap ribs in foil on gas grill?

Yes, wrapping ribs in foil on a gas grill is a great way to keep them tender and juicy. The foil helps to trap in moisture and heat, allowing the ribs to cook in their own juices. It also helps to prevent the ribs from drying out or burning. Wrapping the ribs in foil also allows for easy addition of barbecue sauce or other flavors, which can be added during the final grilling stage after the foil is removed.

How do you cook ribs on a gas grill in foil indirect heat?

To cook ribs on a gas grill in foil using indirect heat, first preheat the grill to medium-high heat. Then, prepare the ribs by removing the membrane and seasoning them. Wrap the ribs tightly in foil and place them on the cooler side of the grill, away from the direct heat.

Close the lid and cook for 2-2.5 hours, checking occasionally to ensure that the grill temperature remains steady. After the initial cooking time, remove the foil, brush with sauce, and grill over direct heat for 5-10 minutes to caramelize the sauce and give the ribs a crispy finish.

Can I cook these in the oven?

Yes, you can cook ribs in the oven. Preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C), season your ribs with your preferred dry rub or marinade, and place them in a baking dish. Cover with foil and bake for 2-2.5 hours. For extra flavor, you can finish them off on the grill or broil them in the oven.

FAQs

Conclusion

Cooking ribs on a gas grill in foil is an easy and foolproof way to get tender, juicy ribs every time. By choosing the right type of ribs, preparing them properly, wrapping them in foil, cooking them on the grill, and finishing them with your favorite sauce, you’ll have a delicious and impressive dish that’s perfect for any occasion. So fire up your grill, grab some ribs, and get cooking!