Succulent, tender, and perfectly seasoned ribs can be the showstopper of any home-cooked meal, and mastering the art of rib-making doesn’t require professional skills—just a few clever hacks. With these tips, you’ll be on your way to making the best ribs right in your own kitchen.

1. Choose the Right Cut

Selecting the right type of ribs is crucial. Baby back ribs tend to be leaner with a shorter cooking time, while St. Louis or spare ribs are a bit larger and have more fat, which can mean more flavor and tenderness.

2. Remove the Membrane

For the most tender results, you want to remove the thin, silvery membrane on the back of the ribs. This can be easily achieved by loosening it with a butter knife and pulling it off with paper towels for a better grip.

3. Season Generously

One secret to great ribs is a robust dry rub. Create a mix of brown sugar, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper for a classic flavor. Be generous when applying the rub; cover both sides of the ribs thoroughly.

4. Slow and Low is the Way to Go

Cooking your ribs at a low temperature over a longer period helps break down the collagen in the meat, which results in tender ribs that are full of flavor. Aim for 225°F (107°C) if you’re cooking in an oven or smoker.

5. Use Wood Chips for Smoking

If you’re using a smoker or even a grill, adding wood chips can infuse your ribs with distinctive smoky flavors. Hickory and mesquite wood chips are popular choices that complement pork well.

6. Wrapping is Optional But Helpful

Some pitmasters swear by wrapping their ribs in foil partway through cooking—also known as the ‘Texas crutch.’ This helps keep moisture in and can speed up cooking time without sacrificing juiciness or developing a deliciously caramelized exterior.

7. Baste with BBQ Sauce

Applying barbecue sauce during the final stages of cooking gives the ribs an irresistible glaze while also enhancing their natural flavors. Don’t apply it too early though as sugar-based sauces can burn before the meat is done.

8. Let Them Rest

Once your ribs are cooked through (internal temperature should reach 190°F/88°C), let them rest for about 10 minutes before cutting into them. This allows juices inside to redistribute throughout the meat.

These hacks will set you on your path to making delectable home-cooked ribs that could rival any restaurant offering. Remember to experiment with different rubs and sauces to find your perfect combination!