Smoked Beef Short Ribs So Good They Should Be Illegal

Q: How long does it take to smoke beef short ribs in a smoker?

It typically takes 6 to 8 hours to smoke beef short ribs at 250°F. The time may vary depending on the size and thickness of the ribs, as well as smoker performance. Smoke unwrapped for the first half of the cook to develop bark, then wrap in butcher paper and finish cooking to target temp.

Q: What is the difference between smoked short ribs and regular BBQ ribs?

The main difference lies in the type of meat and cooking style . Smoked short ribs come from beef and are thicker, richer, and more marbled. Regular BBQ ribs usually refer to pork ribs , which are leaner and sweeter. Beef ribs are often smoked with minimal seasoning and no sauce (Texas-style), while pork ribs are commonly glazed with sweet BBQ sauce and cooked faster.

Question 1

How do you smoke beef short ribs Texas-style?

Accepted Answer

Texas-style smoked beef short ribs are all about keeping it simple and letting the smoke do the talking. Start by trimming the ribs and seasoning them generously with a 2:1 mix of coarse black pepper and kosher salt. Preheat your smoker to 250°F and use post oak wood for that signature Texas flavor. Smoke the ribs bone-side down, unwrapped, until the bark sets—usually around 4–5 hours. When the internal temperature reaches approximately 165°F, wrap the meat in butcher paper and keep smoking until it climbs to between 200 and 205°F. Let them rest for an hour before slicing.

Question 2

What temperature should smoked beef short ribs be cooked to?

Accepted Answer

The ideal internal temperature for smoked beef short ribs is 200°F to 205°F. This range ensures the connective tissue has fully broken down, making the ribs tender and juicy. Always use a meat thermometer to check for doneness—probe tenderness is just as important as temperature.

Question 3

How long does it take to smoke beef short ribs in a smoker?

Accepted Answer

It typically takes 6 to 8 hours to smoke beef short ribs at 250°F. The time may vary depending on the size and thickness of the ribs, as well as smoker performance. Smoke unwrapped for the first half of the cook to develop bark, then wrap in butcher paper and finish cooking to target temp.

Question 4

What is the difference between smoked short ribs and regular BBQ ribs?

Accepted Answer

The main difference lies in the type of meat and cooking style. Smoked short ribs come from beef and are thicker, richer, and more marbled. Regular BBQ ribs usually refer to pork ribs, which are leaner and sweeter. Beef ribs are often smoked with minimal seasoning and no sauce (Texas-style), while pork ribs are commonly glazed with sweet BBQ sauce and cooked faster.

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