Sweet and Spicy BBQ Ribs on a Pellet Grill or Smoker

Sweet and spicy BBQ ribs are one of those dishes that feels like a special occasion no matter when you make them. Tender meat that pulls off the bone, a little heat, and just enough sweetness to balance it out. If you're cooking for someone you love this Valentine's Day, these ribs make a great centerpiece.

Here's what you'll need:

Ingredients

• 2 slabs of baby back ribs
• 1 cup brown sugar
• 1/2 cup chili powder
• 1 tbsp smoked paprika
• 2 tsp garlic powder
• 2 tsp onion powder
• 1 tsp salt
• 1 tsp black pepper
• 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper
• 1/2 cup ketchup
• 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
• 1/4 cup honey
• 2 tbsp Worcestershire sauce

Instructions

1. Preheat your pellet grill or smoker to 225°F.
2. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the brown sugar, chili powder, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper.
3. Cut the slabs of ribs in half and sprinkle both sides generously with the spice mixture.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together the ketchup, apple cider vinegar, honey, and Worcestershire sauce to make the BBQ sauce.
5. Place the ribs on the grill or smoker and smoke for 2 1/2 hours. Brush the BBQ sauce on both sides of the ribs every 30 minutes for the last hour.
6. Once the ribs reach an internal temperature of 145°F, pull them off the heat and let them rest for 5 to 10 minutes.
7. Serve hot with a drizzle of extra BBQ sauce and a side of your choice.

That's it. A plate of these and a little time together, and you've got a Valentine's Day worth remembering.