Bacon Wrapped Pork Ribs: Easy Recipe & Cooking Tips

Craving something truly epic for your next BBQ? A Traeger grill, known for its wood-fired flavor, can take your cooking game to the next level, especially when preparing a crowd-pleasing favorite. Preparation, the most important step, sets you up for success by ensuring your ingredients are ready to go. Bacon, that glorious, crispy treat, is about to meet pork ribs in a culinary collision of deliciousness, because, who can resist bacon wrapped pork ribs? With a few simple techniques and tips, even a novice cook can create mouthwatering bacon wrapped pork ribs that will have everyone begging for more, just like Steven Raichlen, a pitmaster, would prepare.

Bacon Wrapped Pork Ribs: Your Guide to Smoky, Delicious Perfection!

Okay, so you want to make bacon wrapped pork ribs? Awesome! Get ready for a flavour explosion that’ll have everyone asking for seconds (and the recipe!). But before you dive in, let’s talk structure. A well-organized article makes the whole process smoother, both for you writing it and for your readers devouring it.

Think of your article as a delicious multi-layered sandwich – each layer has a purpose and contributes to the overall amazingness. Here’s how we’re gonna build that sandwich:

Introduction: Setting the Stage

Start with a warm welcome. Hook your readers right away. Briefly describe how incredibly tasty bacon wrapped pork ribs are. Tease the "easy" part of the recipe. Maybe share a quick anecdote about how you discovered this magical combination. Example: "Remember that BBQ where everything was a bit…meh? Well, these bacon wrapped pork ribs will not be that ‘meh’ item. They’re a guaranteed crowd-pleaser!"

What You’ll Need: Gathering the Troops (Ingredients)

This section needs to be crystal clear. Make a bulleted list of everything you need. Don’t just list the ingredients – include the quantities. Think of this as the shopping list your reader will be taking to the store.

  • Pork Ribs: (Specify cut – St. Louis style or baby back, about 3-4 pounds)
  • Bacon: (Thick-cut is preferred, 1 pound)
  • Dry Rub: (Recipe below, or your favorite store-bought blend)
  • BBQ Sauce: (Your favourite brand, about 1 cup)
  • Optional Extras: (Brown sugar, honey, maple syrup, apple cider vinegar for added flavour)

The Dry Rub: The Secret Weapon

Here you have a few options. You can:

  1. Provide your own signature dry rub recipe: List ingredients and instructions in a clear, numbered format.
  2. Recommend a store-bought option: Suggest a particular brand or type of rub that you like. Mention characteristics of the rub (sweet, spicy, smoky).
  3. Offer both! Give your readers choices.

If you’re giving a recipe, use this structure:

  1. Dry Rub Ingredients: List each ingredient with quantities (e.g., 2 tablespoons paprika, 1 tablespoon garlic powder).
  2. Instructions:
    • Step 1: Combine all ingredients in a bowl.
    • Step 2: Mix well until thoroughly blended.
    • Step 3: Store in an airtight container.

Wrapping the Ribs: Bacon Blanket Time!

This is where you get to the heart of the technique. Break down the wrapping process into easy-to-follow steps.

  1. Prep the Ribs: Pat the ribs dry with paper towels. Remove the membrane on the back (if needed). Explain why this is important.
  2. Apply the Rub: Generously coat the ribs with the dry rub, ensuring every surface is covered.
  3. Wrap with Bacon: Weave the bacon strips around the ribs, overlapping slightly. Use toothpicks to secure the bacon if needed. Explain why overlapping and securing are important.
  4. Get Creative: Offer options for variations at this stage, for example, add thin slices of pineapple between bacon strips.

Cooking Methods: The Heat Is On!

Cover the different cooking options and provide specific instructions for each. This could include:

  • Oven Baking: Temperature, time, steps.
  • Grilling: Direct vs. indirect heat, temperature, time, steps.
  • Smoking: Wood type suggestions, temperature, time, steps.
  • Slow Cooker: Time, low vs. high settings, steps.

Use a table for better readability and comparison:

Cooking Method Temperature (F) Time Key Considerations
Oven 300 2.5 – 3 hours Wrap in foil for the first half of cooking to keep ribs moist.
Grill 250-300 (Indirect) 2 – 2.5 hours Use a water pan to maintain moisture. Baste with BBQ sauce during the last 30 minutes.
Smoker 225 4-5 hours Maintain consistent temperature. Use a mix of hickory and applewood for best flavour.
Slow Cooker Low 6-8 hours Cut ribs into smaller sections to fit. Add a little liquid (broth or apple juice) to prevent drying.

Don’t forget to explain what to look for to know when they are done – internal temperature or the "bend test".

Adding the BBQ Sauce: The Grand Finale

This section should explain when and how to add the BBQ sauce. You could also suggest different types of sauces that pair well with bacon wrapped pork ribs. For example:

  • Timing: Explain the best time to baste with sauce (usually towards the end of cooking).
  • Method: How to apply the sauce evenly.
  • Sauce Recommendations: Provide suggestions (sweet, tangy, spicy).

Serving Suggestions: Plating Perfection

Offer ideas for side dishes that complement the ribs. Classic BBQ sides like coleslaw, potato salad, corn on the cob are perfect. Consider what would appeal to a variety of readers.

Tips & Tricks: Pro-Level Advice

Share any insider tips or tricks you’ve learned over time. This could include:

  • Preventing Bacon Shrinkage: Use butcher’s twine to better secure the bacon.
  • Avoiding Dry Ribs: Keep them wrapped in foil until the last 30 minutes of cooking.
  • Adding a Touch of Sweetness: Brush with honey or maple syrup during the last 15 minutes.

These are just some suggestions, feel free to add any other tips you find helpful.

Frequently Asked Questions About Bacon Wrapped Pork Ribs

How do I keep the bacon from burning before the ribs are cooked through?

To prevent bacon burning on your bacon wrapped pork ribs, use thick-cut bacon, pre-cook the ribs partially before wrapping, and maintain a moderate oven temperature around 300-325°F. Consider adding a glaze near the end for extra flavor and to help the bacon crisp without burning.

Can I use different types of ribs for this recipe?

Yes, you can! While baby back ribs are commonly used for bacon wrapped pork ribs, spare ribs or even country-style ribs can also work. Adjust cooking times accordingly, as larger ribs will require longer cooking.

What’s the best way to get crispy bacon on my bacon wrapped pork ribs?

For crispier bacon on your bacon wrapped pork ribs, broil them for the last few minutes of cooking, but watch carefully to prevent burning. Make sure any glaze is already applied, and only broil until the bacon reaches your desired crispness.

Can I freeze bacon wrapped pork ribs?

Yes, you can freeze cooked bacon wrapped pork ribs. Allow them to cool completely, then wrap them tightly in plastic wrap followed by foil, or place in a freezer bag. They can be stored for up to 2-3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

So there you have it! Everything you need to make seriously delicious bacon wrapped pork ribs right in your own kitchen. Give this recipe a try, and get ready to impress your friends and family with some smoky, savory goodness. Enjoy!

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