How Long to Boil Ribs Before Grilling

Cold weather is fast approaching, and that means it’s time to fire up the grill for the last few times (or the first few times) of the year. Ribs are a favorite across many different lands and cultures, but few know the best trick to making the most delicious ribs: boiling them before grilling, baking or barbecuing. It tenderizes the meat, preserves juices and helps cut down, in the long run, on the amount of time you’ll have to cook it. Keep reading to find out how to boil ribs and how long you should boil the different types.

Contents

How to Boil Ribs
Types of Ribs
Pork
● How Long to Boil Pork Ribs
● How Long to Boil Boneless Pork Ribs
● How Long to Boil Pork Spare Ribs
● How Long to Boil Baby Back Ribs Before Baking
● How Long to Boil Baby Back Ribs Before Grilling
Beef
● How Long to Boil Beef Ribs Before Baking
● How Long to Boil Country Style Ribs Before Baking
Other Common Questions Related to How Long it Takes to Boil Ribs:
How Long Does it Take to Boil Ribs Before Barbecuing?
How Long Does it Take to Boil Ribs Before Grilling?

How to Boil Ribs

First, fill a large pot with water and place on the stovetop over medium-high heat until you achieve a rolling boil.
Carefully add the ribs to the pot using metal tongs or another heat-safe utensil.
Boil the ribs according to the type and purpose you have in mind. Set a timer so they don’t become over-boiled and rubbery.
Turn off the burner and drain the contents of the pot into a colander, or use a heat-safe utensil to remove the ribs as in step two.

Types of Ribs

Pork

● How Long to Boil Pork Ribs

Pork ribs should be boiled for 20-25 minutes or until the internal temperature reads 145℉ on a meat thermometer.

● How Long to Boil Boneless Pork Ribs

Whether or not the bone is in does make a difference – boil boneless pork ribs for 40-45 minutes.

● How Long to Boil Pork Spare Ribs

Pork spare ribs come from the same general area as baby back ribs (up next in the list); in fact, this cut is actually right next to the baby back ribs. Spare ribs should be boiled for 60-90 minutes.

● How Long to Boil Baby Back Ribs Before Baking

Baby back ribs are another tender cut – boil these for 60 minutes.

● How Long to Boil Baby Back Ribs Before Grilling

Before grilling, you should boil baby back ribs for 25 minutes.

Beef

● How Long to Boil Beef Ribs Before Baking

Beef ribs should be boiled 20 minutes before baking to help preserve the texture and reduce cooking time.

● How Long to Boil Country Style Ribs Before Baking

Country style ribs can be boiled for 20 minutes before they go in the oven.

How Long Does it Take to Boil Ribs Before Barbecuing?

Though you don’t technically have to boil your ribs before barbecuing them, many find that doing so prevents the ribs from drying out. It also helps prevent undercooking. Before barbecuing, you’ll want to boil your ribs (no matter what kind) for a minimum of 20 minutes.

How Long Does it Take to Boil Ribs Before Grilling?

Grilling and barbecuing are the same cooking technique, separated one degree by the addition of barbecue sauce in some regions. Boil for 20 minutes just like you would for barbecuing.