Dry Rubbed Ribs

I think we can all agree that three day weekends are amazing.  In my world, the goal is to fit as much as I possibly can into my bonus 24 hours of weekend.😅  But Memorial Day hits a little different from other holiday weekends.  This weekend, I'm taking time to reflect on the courageous men and women who have sacrificed everything so that I can have the freedom to pursue happiness and live in a safe, secure place.  I specialize in recipes - not politics - but today I want to express my gratitude for the individuals who lost their lives bravely defending my freedom.  🇺🇸

Like I said, normally my objective is to pack as much fun into my extra weekend day, that I possibly can.  Squeezing 36 hours of activity into a 24 hour period is my super power. 😂 You can find me hiking in the mountains, riding my bike on a new trail or taking a day trip to visit a winery.🍷  Filling my bonus day with adventure is my default and that's exactly what I had on the agenda for this weekend.   BUT sometimes my best laid plans don't work out. 🤷🏻‍♀️  And contrary to what my overachieving brain tries to tell me, having an extra day with nothing on my calendar, isn't a bad thing.  😂 

Resting, relaxing, chilling - those things don't come naturally to me but, the older I get, the more I realize just how necessary they really are.  Slowing down is not only important, but essential.  Learning to make the time to reenergize and reflect is a game changer for my mental health. 

Sometimes, slowing down the meal process is important too.  There are days when my schedule dictates a quick and easy pasta dish or even a sandwich eaten in the car as my evening sustenance.🥪  But when I take the time to slow roast my meal - I approach the meal with a whole new sense of appreciation.  Maybe it's the sweet aroma of ribs infused with smoke swirling around the air all afternoon that creates a sense of anticipation but I find myself more grateful of any meal that cooks all afternoon. 😅  

Dry Rubbed Ribs
Spice Rub
2 Tablespoons paprika
2 Tablespoons brown sugar
1 Tablespoon salt
2 teaspoons chili powder
1 1/2 teaspoons garlic powder
1 1/2 teaspoons pepper
1 1/2 teaspoons onion powder
1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
1/2 teaspoon dried thyme

Ribs
2 racks St. Louis style ribs
1/2 cup apple juice
3 Tablespoons cider vinegar

Combine rub ingredients. 

Press 2 T. rub on each side of ribs. 

Combine apple juice and vinegar. 

Place ribs on grill and cook 45 minutes.  

Brush with apple juice mixture and cook another 45 minutes.  

Transfer ribs to a wire rack set on a baking​ sheet and brush with 2 T. apple juice mixture.

Pour 1 1/2 cups water into bottom of pan.  Bake 1-2 hours at 300.  

Let ribs rest 15 minutes before slicing.  

I sincerely hope that you have a wonderful Memorial Day weekend.  If you happen to find yourself without a plan for Memorial Day - I recommend you head to the grocery store, pick up some ribs and try my recipe for delicious dry rubbed ribs.  You will not be disappointed. 😉
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Ciao! 

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