Mastering Asado Ribs: Bbq Techniques For Succulent Results

Asado ribs are a popular choice for cooking over charcoal or wood fire coals. The term 'asado' refers to a style of cooking outdoors over coals, commonly associated with Argentinian barbecue, as well as neighbouring South American countries like Uruguay and Chile. Asado also refers to a cut of beef short ribs, which are cut perpendicular to the bone for maximum flavour. To cook asado ribs on the BBQ, the meat should first be marinated in a spice rub or sauce, before being grilled over charcoal or coals.

How to prepare the ribs

Preparing the ribs is a simple process, but it does require some time and attention to detail. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to prepare asado ribs for the BBQ:

Firstly, you will need to decide if you want to marinate your ribs. Marinating the ribs is not essential, but it can add extra flavour and moisture to the meat. If you choose to marinate, a simple mixture of salt, pepper, and red wine vinegar can be used. Generously rub the spices all over the ribs and let them sit for up to an hour at room temperature or up to four hours in the refrigerator. This process will enhance the flavour of the meat and break down some of the tough fibres, making the ribs more tender.

Next, you will need to trim any excess surface fat from the ribs. This step will help prevent flare-ups on the grill and ensure that your ribs cook evenly. Use a sharp knife to carefully trim away any large areas of fat, leaving just a thin layer for flavour and moisture.

Once your ribs are trimmed and marinated (if desired), it's time to season them. Asado ribs are typically seasoned with a generous amount of salt and pepper on both sides. You can also add other spices like garlic powder, smoked paprika, or cayenne pepper to enhance the flavour. Make sure to rub the spices into the meat and get them nice and coated.

If you want to take your ribs to the next level, you can also apply a dry rub. A dry rub is a mixture of spices that are combined and then generously rubbed into the meat. You can create your own dry rub with spices like salt, pepper, paprika, garlic powder, and brown sugar, or you can use a store-bought variety. Apply the dry rub all over the ribs, massaging it into the meat, and then let the ribs sit for a few minutes to absorb the flavours.

Finally, it's important to let the ribs come to room temperature before placing them on the grill. Take them out of the refrigerator about 30 minutes before cooking and let them rest. This step will help the ribs cook more evenly, ensuring a juicy and tender final product.

Now that your ribs are prepared, it's time to fire up the grill and get cooking! Remember to use an even layer of hot coals and to work in batches to avoid flare-ups and ensure even cooking. Follow the grilling instructions specific to your recipe, and you'll have delicious, fall-off-the-bone asado ribs to enjoy!

How to prepare the grill

Preparing the grill for asado ribs is a crucial step in the cooking process. Here is a step-by-step guide to help you get it right:

Firstly, decide on your heat source. Asado ribs can be cooked on a charcoal grill or a gas BBQ. Charcoal grills are the traditional choice and impart a unique flavour to the meat, but gas BBQs offer more control over the heat distribution. If using charcoal, prepare your grill by lighting the coals and allowing them to burn until they are hot and covered with a light layer of grey ash. For a gas BBQ, preheat it to medium-high heat.

Next, you'll want to ensure your grill grates are clean and oiled. Use a grill brush to remove any built-up residue, then lightly oil the grates to prevent the ribs from sticking. This will also add flavour to the meat.

When your grill is ready, it's time to think about heat distribution. Asado ribs do best with even heat, so if using charcoal, spread the coals out into an even layer. Be mindful that the fat from the ribs can cause flare-ups, so you want to minimise hot spots. If your grill has multiple burners, you can control the heat distribution by turning each burner up or down as needed.

Once your grill is prepared, it's time to cook those ribs! Place the ribs on the grill, making sure they are spaced evenly to allow for even cooking. Depending on your recipe, you may want to cover the grill with a lid to help trap the heat and cook the ribs more evenly. Remember to flip the ribs periodically to ensure they cook through.

Finally, always keep a close eye on your grill temperature. Asado ribs do best with consistent heat, so adjust your burners or add more charcoal as needed to maintain an even temperature. With the right preparation, your grill will be ready to cook those ribs to perfection!

How to cook the ribs

Asado ribs are a popular choice for cooking over a wood fire, but they can also be cooked on a gas barbecue grill. Here's a step-by-step guide on how to cook delicious asado ribs on the BBQ:

Preparation:

Firstly, remove the meat from the fridge 30 minutes before cooking and let it come to room temperature. This ensures even cooking. If you want to add extra flavour, you can prepare a brine (salt dissolved in water) and marinate the ribs overnight. You can also make a Chimichurri sauce in advance, which is a popular accompaniment to Asado ribs.

Seasoning:

Generously season both sides of the ribs with salt and pepper. You can also add other spices like smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, or chilli flakes for an extra kick. Don't be shy with the seasoning, as this will enhance the flavour of the meat.

Grill Setup:

For charcoal BBQs, spread out the coals evenly to ensure consistent heat distribution. Asado ribs can cause flare-ups due to their fat content, so an even layer of coals will help minimise hot spots. If using a gas grill, set it to high heat.

Cooking the Ribs:

Place the ribs on the grill, covering them with the barbecue lid. Cook for 2 minutes, then remove the lid, turn the ribs over, and replace the lid. Repeat this process, cooking for 2 minutes on each side. For rare-medium ribs, aim for a total cooking time of around 8 minutes. If you prefer them more well-done, add a minute or two to the cooking time.

Resting and Serving:

After grilling, transfer the ribs to a plate and let them rest for at least 10 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute and ensures juicy, tender meat. Finally, cut the meat between the bones into portions and arrange them on a serving platter. Serve with Chimichurri sauce, black garlic cloves, or your favourite BBQ sauce.

There you have it! Delicious, juicy Asado ribs cooked to perfection on the BBQ. Don't forget to enjoy them with a side of grilled vegetables, a green salad, and perhaps a glass of full-bodied red wine.

How to make a chimichurri sauce

Chimichurri is a South American sauce that is commonly served with grilled meats and vegetables. It is made with fresh herbs, vinegar, and garlic. Here is a recipe for chimichurri sauce that you can make at home:

Ingredients:

• 1 cup tightly packed chopped parsley leaves
• 1 cup tightly packed chopped cilantro leaves
• 1/4 to 1/3 cup red wine vinegar or white wine vinegar
• 1/2 onion, coarsely chopped
• 1 teaspoon coarse salt or to taste
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/2 to 1 teaspoon hot pepper flakes or red pepper flakes
• 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
• 1/2 to 3/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
• 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice (optional)
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
• 1/2 teaspoon cumin (optional)

Instructions:

• Combine the parsley, cilantro, vinegar, onion, garlic, salt, oregano, pepper flakes, black pepper, and any other optional spices you wish to include in a food processor or blender.
• Pulse the ingredients a few times until they are finely chopped.
• While continuing to pulse, slowly pour in the olive oil until the mixture is well combined but not mushy.
• Refrigerate the chimichurri sauce for at least 2 hours to allow the flavours to blend.
• Serve the sauce over grilled meats such as steak, chicken, or lamb, or use it as a salad dressing, dip, or marinade.

The chimichurri sauce can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks. For longer storage, you can freeze it in ice cube trays and thaw as needed.

What to serve with the ribs

Asado-cut beef short ribs are a delicious dish, perfect for a summer barbecue. But what to serve with them? Here are some ideas to make your meal even more mouth-watering:

Salads and Slaws

A refreshing salad or slaw can provide a great contrast to the rich, juicy ribs. Try a Vietnamese Bahn Mi Slaw, or a zesty, herby chimichurri—a traditional Argentinian sauce made with parsley, garlic, vinegar, and chilli flakes. This can be served as a salad or used as a marinade.

Potatoes

Mashed potatoes are a great side dish to accompany ribs, but you could also try roasted potatoes, potato salad, or even sweet potato fries. The starchiness of potatoes makes them a perfect pairing with rich, fatty meats like ribs.

Grilled Vegetables

Grilled vegetables are a classic barbecue side dish, and for good reason. They're easy to prepare and can be cooked on the barbecue alongside your ribs. Try grilled corn, eggplant, zucchini, or peppers.

Beans

Beans are a great source of protein and fibre, and they make a tasty and hearty side dish. Try a bean salad, baked beans, or even a more exotic dish like Brazilian feijoada, a black bean and meat stew.

Drinks

Finally, don't forget to pair your meal with a refreshing drink! A full-bodied red wine like an Argentinian Malbec is a great choice to complement the ribs, or you could try a craft beer or summer cocktail.

With these sides, your asado ribs will be the star of a perfect summer barbecue!

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