Kansas City Style Smoked Ribs
85% authentic · American
A true Kansas City experience featuring pork ribs smoked low and slow, then finished with a thick, sweet, and spicy tomato-based sauce. Known for its rich flavor and tender texture.
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Ingredients
- Pork spare ribs1 rack (approx. 3 lbs)
- Brown sugar1/4 cup
- Sweet paprika2 tbsp
- Garlic powder1 tbsp
- Onion powder1 tbsp
- Chili powder1 tsp
- Cayenne pepper1/2 tsp
- Salt1 tbsp
- Black pepper1 tbsp
- Tomato paste1/2 cup
- Molasses1/4 cup
- Honey1/4 cup
- Apple cider vinegar1/4 cup
- Worcestershire sauce2 tbsp
- Water1/4 cup
- Hickory wood chips1 cup
Steps
- 1
Prepare the ribs: Remove the membrane, trim excess fat. Mix brown sugar, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, chili powder, cayenne, salt, and pepper for the rub. Apply generously.
- 2
Prepare the smoker: Soak hickory wood chips in water for 30 minutes. Preheat smoker to 225°F (107°C).
- 3
Smoke the ribs for 3 hours, adding wood chips as needed to maintain smoke.
- 4
While smoking, make the sauce: Combine tomato paste, molasses, honey, apple cider vinegar, Worcestershire sauce, water, and a pinch of salt and pepper in a saucepan. Simmer for 20 minutes until thickened.
- 5
After 3 hours of smoking, wrap the ribs tightly in butcher paper or foil.
- 6
Return to the smoker for another 1.5 - 2 hours, until tender.
- 7
Unwrap the ribs. Brush generously with the Kansas City style BBQ sauce.
- 8
Increase smoker temperature to 275°F (135°C) or place under a broiler for 5-10 minutes, watching carefully, until the sauce is caramelized.
- 9
Rest the ribs for 15 minutes before slicing and serving.
