1-First Step: Make the Spice Rub and Prep the RibsStart by whisking together 3 tablespoons sugar, 2 teaspoons salt, 1.5 tablespoons smoked paprika, 1.5 teaspoons garlic powder, 1.5 teaspoons onion powder, 1 teaspoon ground cumin, 1 teaspoon dried oregano, 0.5 teaspoon ground mustard, and 0.5 teaspoon cayenne pepper in a medium bowl to create your spice rub. Remove the membrane from the underside of your 2 racks of baby back ribs (about 8-10 pounds total) using a butter knife and paper towel for better grip and tenderness for vegan adaptations, prepare seitan or jackfruit slabs to rub with the mix. Let the ribs sit with half the rub for 15 minutes to absorb flavors, then apply the rest, setting up for a flavorful BBQ baby back ribs experience.

2-Second Step: Preheat and Set Up for CookingPreheat your smoker to 225°F, oven to 300°F, or grill for indirect heat at around 250°F, depending on your setup for the BBQ baby back ribs. This step ensures low and slow cooking for maximum tenderness, and if you’re going gluten-free, double-check ingredients like sauces. Coat the ribs evenly and get your cooking area ready, as this method works for various preferences, like using a grill for outdoor fun or an oven for indoor ease.

3-Third Step: Cook the Ribs Based on MethodFor the smoker method, place the ribs in and cook for 2 hours, then wrap each rack in foil with a little liquid like water for moisture before returning for 1.5 hours if the foil seems dry, add more to keep things juicy for your BBQ baby back ribs. In the oven, put them on a foil-lined baking sheet, cover tightly, and bake for about 2 hours, checking for low-calorie needs by reducing sugar in the rub. On the grill, wrap lightly in foil and cook bone side down over indirect heat for 2 hours, adding liquid if needed, which adapts well for faster meals on busier days.

4-Fourth Step: Add Sauce and Finish CookingUnwrap the ribs if using the smoker or grill, brush with about 6 tablespoons of barbecue sauce, and cook for another 45 minutes to 1 hour until tender for grilling, move to direct heat and grill uncovered for 10 to 20 minutes for char. Times may vary from 3 to 6 hours based on method, so lift with tongs to check doneness; adapt by using a low-sugar sauce for dietary adjustments in your BBQ baby back ribs.

5-Final Step: Rest and ServeLet the ribs rest for at least 15 minutes to retain juices before slicing, which helps with that fall-off-the-bone goodness in your BBQ baby back ribs. Serve with extras like more sauce and sides such as potato salad or cornbread, slicing into portions for easy sharing adjust for smaller servings if needed. This step seals the deal on a meal that’s not only tasty but also flexible for any crowd.