Hickory Country Ribs
Tender pork ribs are marinated in a tangy, savory mixture and slow-cooked with hickory smoke for a flavorful, smoky barbecue experience perfect for gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine all ingredients except ribs; mix well.
- Place ribs in a shallow dish.
- Cover with marinade and refrigerate for 24 hours, turning meat occasionally.
- Place several presoaked hickory chips on hot coals.
- Remove ribs from marinade and place approximately 6 inches above coals.
- Close hood of grill.
- Cook over low heat, brushing occasionally with marinade.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider marinating the ribs for up to 48 hours instead of just 24. If you don't have hickory chips, try apple or cherry wood for a different smoky taste. You can use a mix of honey and soy sauce as a substitute for Worcestershire sauce, enhancing the sweetness. Adjust the dry mustard according to your taste preference.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these hickory country ribs with classic sides like coleslaw or baked beans for a true barbecue experience. They pair beautifully with Stuffed Zucchini(Zucanoes) for a fresh and healthy contrast. A side of cornbread is also a great option to soak up the delicious marinade.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover ribs can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze them in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. To reheat, bake in the oven at 350°F until warmed through, or grill briefly to restore the smoky flavor.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Hickory Country Ribs contains roughly 387 calories, with 13g protein, 27g carbohydrates, and 26g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (27% of the Daily Value) and protein (25% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1891mg per serving (82% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different cut of pork for this recipe?
Yes, you can substitute pork shoulder or boneless pork chops if you prefer. However, cooking times may vary, so adjust accordingly. For best results, ensure the meat is well-marbled to keep it juicy while grilling.
Is it necessary to soak the hickory chips?
Soaking hickory chips for at least 30 minutes helps prevent them from burning too quickly and enhances the smoke flavor. If you’re short on time, you can use dry chips, but be mindful of the heat level to avoid charring the ribs.
What if I don't have a grill?
If you don't have a grill, you can bake the marinated ribs in the oven at 300°F for about 2-3 hours. Cover them with foil to keep moisture in, and remove the foil in the last 30 minutes to achieve a nice caramelized exterior.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).