All about barbecuying > Create fireworks on the grill this Fourth of July
Rib ABC's will revolutionize your Summer Sizzle

Nothing is more American than barbecued pork ribs on the Fourth of July. The key to good ribs: keep it simple and follow the basics.

The variety of ribs available lets you select a rack of ribs that suits your style:

Pork Back Ribs
Also called baby back ribs, pork back ribs are cut from the blade and center section of the loin, and are known for the "finger meat" between the rib bones. These are favorites of rib aficionados because they're meatier than spareribs. Plan on one pound per hungry person when purchasing pork back ribs, which generally weigh between 1-1/2 to 1-3/4 pounds per rack.

Spareribs
Cut from the belly or side of the hog, spareribs are the least meaty of all pork ribs, but spare nothing in taste. Plan on one pound per serving.

Country-Style
The meatiest of ribs, country-style ribs are cut from the rib end of the loin. These pork ribs are perfect for those who want enough meat to use a knife and fork. A half pound of country-style ribs satisfies most appetites.

Grilling Ribs Right
It's easy to get ribs right if you follow these cooking instructions:

Slow Roast Ribs
Cook ribs over medium-low, indirect heat by banking the charcoal around the edges of a covered grill or roasting in a 300-350 degrees F. oven. Grill or roast ribs for 1-1/2 to 2 hours. You'll know the ribs are done when you can "wiggle" the bone somewhat away from the meat.

Finishing Touches
Some sauces may burn on the grill if brushed on too soon. Save tomato-based sauces and sauces containing a lot of sugar until the last 20 minutes of grilling or apply the sauce at the table as a finishing touch.

It's in the Bag
For extra tender ribs, remove ribs from grill and wrap in heavy foil; place in a large brown paper bag, close bag and let ribs rest for up to an hour.

Seasoning Methods
Any of these methods will add bold flavor without fat:

Rubs
Combine favorite herbs and spices to create endless options for pork ribs. Or purchase an already prepared rub. Apply rubs directly to the surface of ribs just prior to grilling, or rub and refrigerate for 1 to 24 hours.

Marinades
Marinades can be put on ribs an hour to 24 hours before cooking. Always include an acidic component (such as vinegar or citrus juices). Never marinate in tomato-based barbecue sauces, which contain sugar, they will burn during grilling.

Spiced-Up Sauces
Doctor up your favorite store-bought bottled sauce with favorite flavorful ingredients such as chili powder, orange marmalade or grated gingerroot. Brush on sauces during the last 20 minutes of grilling to avoid burning.