Pork Ribs On The Ugly Drum Smoker

I love to cook pork ribs on the ugly drum smoker for the simple reason that it is easy to do and the result is amazing.

I use regular pork spare ribs from my local supermarket and they also turn out very well.

Preparation For Ribs On The UDS

Steps To Cook Pork Ribs On An Ugly Drum Smoker.

You can use the same steps I take here and apply them to any other smoker. From off-set to pellet smoker these ribs will turn out great with these easy-to-follow steps.

• Step 1: Remove the ribs from the package and rinse them under running water.

The reason for this is that ribs are cut with a band saw and you want to remove the small pieces so they do not end up on your plate.

• Step 2: Remove the membrane.

Some people skip this step but in my experience, the membrane gets hard if it is not removed. Alternatively, you can scorch it with a knife.

• Step 3: Pat the ribs dry with a paper towel.

This will remove the water that you rinsed them with.

• Step 4: Season the ribs with your personal preference or any homemade seasoning.

You can use a binder such as mustard or Worcestershire sauce but I have not tasted a difference.

• Step 5: Let the ribs with the seasoning sit for about 20 minutes to let the meat sweat and absorb the rib rub.

If I have the time I let them sit in the refrigerator overnight but I have not tasted a big difference.

Cooking Ribs On The Ugly Drum Smoker

I have used this method many times and it has never failed me. Just realize that these are home-cooked ribs and not competition ribs. I like them as tender as possible.

• Step 1: Preheat your ugly drum smoker, or any other smoker to 225- 230°F (107 – 110°C)

I like to heat it to 230°F (110°C) since the cooler meat will lower the temperature in your smoker when added.

• Step 2: Add your ribs with the meat side down.

The reason I start with the meat side down is that the bones protect the meat from getting to hot and dry our or burn.

• Step 3: Cook your ribs for about 2 to 2 1/2 hours.

This is usually long enough to form a nice Mahogany color and bark. Optional you can spritz the ribs with a 50/50 mixture of water/apple cider vinegar every 30 minutes.

Step 4: Check the ribs and if they look good it is time to wrap them.

I use aluminum foil and add a little apple juice to help with tenderizing.

• Step 5: Put them back on the grill for another 2 hours.

This process keeps the moisture in the ribs and in combination with the apple juice they will tenderize very nicely.

• Step 6: Check the ribs for doneness and tenderness.

Now you can add a glaze if you like and put them back open on the smoker for another 1/2 hour or pull them and let them cook for about 10 minutes.

• Step 7: Slice them the way you like them and start enjoying some awesome ugly drum smoker ribs.

Pork Ribs On The Ugly Drum Smoker – My Experience

I have cooked many ribs on my homemade ugly drum smoker and have slowly mastered it.

If you follow these steps and use a good quality or homemade seasoning I can almost guarantee you great tasting and fall-of-the-bone ribs.

It will not make a difference if you use spare ribs, baby back ribs, or St. Louise-style ribs.

Have a look at all the smoker recipes and find your next cook on your smoker.

Feel free to contact me with any questions you have.

Eddie van Aken

Eddie van Aken brings years of experience from running a full-service restaurant, where he honed his skills with all types of kitchen equipment. His expertise extends to mastering the art of outdoor cooking, utilizing the right recipes to enhance flavors on grills and smokers. Eddie’s in-depth knowledge allows him to provide comprehensive grill reviews and valuable outdoor cooking tips, helping enthusiasts make the most of their grilling adventures. You can read more on the About page for Eddie van Aken