Mastering Juicy, Tender Beef Finger Ribs on the Grill

Beef finger ribs, also known as beef short ribs, are a highly flavorful cut that shine when prepared on the grill These meaty ribs have a pronounced beef taste and succulent texture when cooked properly

Grilling brings out the best in beef finger ribs. The high direct heat sears the outside while keeping the inside moist and tender. With just a few tips, you can make incredible grilled beef finger ribs at home.

Choosing the Best Beef Finger Ribs for Grilling

Look for racks of beef finger ribs that are evenly marbled throughout. The streaks of fat embedded in the meat will baste it from within as it cooks ensuring juicy results. Well-marbled ribs are naturally more tender and flavorful.

Beef finger ribs can come attached to the rib bone or detached. Either works fine for grilling. The attached version often has more meat. Detached ribs allow more spice rub to penetrate the sides.

Aim for beef finger ribs that are around 1-2 inches thick for the best balance of tenderness and easy handling on the grill. Thinner ribs can dry out fast, while thicker ribs take much longer to cook through.

Tenderizing Beef Finger Ribs Before Cooking

While flavorful, beef finger ribs can sometimes be chewy due to their abundant connective tissue. A marinade is key to tenderize the meat before grilling. The acidic ingredients help break down tough fibers.

Some good marinade additions are vinegar, lemon juice, wine, yogurt, fruit juices like pineapple, and even soda. Let the beef finger ribs soak for at least 2-3 hours, but no longer than 12 for optimal effect.

You can also use a meat mallet or tenderizer tool to manually break down the connective tissue beforehand. Gently pound the ribs on both sides being careful not to overdo it.

Apply a Dry Rub for Maximum Flavor

A spice rub adds so much flavor and forms a tasty crust when grilled. First coat the ribs all over with a thin layer of oil so the rub adheres. Then liberally season both sides with your favorite rub.

Good rub spices include salt, pepper, garlic, chili powder, cumin, brown sugar, paprika, and cayenne. Let the rub penetrate the meat for about 30 minutes before grilling for optimal flavor.

If using a sauce, apply it during the last 10-15 minutes of grilling so it doesn’t burn. Build layers of flavor with a rub, sauce, and smoky char.

Grilling Tips for Perfectly Cooked Beef Finger Ribs

The key to great grilled beef finger ribs is using a two-zone fire. Pile coals or turn burners to high on one side, leaving the other with no direct heat. This creates hot and cool zones.

Place the ribs over the cooler side indirect heat. Close the lid if using a gas grill. The objective is to cook the ribs low and slow. Rotate and flip them every 15 minutes for even doneness.

If the temperature is too low, shift the ribs closer to the hot side. But don’t let them char too quickly or they’ll dry out. Move back if they brown too fast.

How Long Should You Grill Beef Finger Ribs?

Beef finger ribs can take 1-2 hours to become fork tender and cooked through while staying moist. Use an instant read thermometer to check doneness.

For medium rare ribs, pull them off the grill at an internal temp of 135°F. For medium 140-145°F, and for well done 160°F. The ribs will continue cooking after you remove them.

Don’t rush the process or you’ll end up with a burnt outside and undercooked interior. Low, indirect heat and patience lead to the best results.

Keeping Beef Finger Ribs Juicy on the Grill

Since beef finger ribs have a tendency to dry out, use these tricks to keep them ultra moist and tender on the grill:

• Place a drip pan under the ribs on the cooler side. The pan catches drippings and creates steam which bastes the meat. Refill with warm water as needed.

• Wrap ribs in foil packets with sauce/marinade. The foil seals in steam and liquid to almost braise the ribs as they grill. Open the foil the last 15 minutes.

• Mop or spritz ribs with marinade, broth, or juice every 30 minutes using a brush or spray bottle. This continually moisturizes the meat’s surface.

• Brush ribs with sauce or melted butter near the end of grilling time to make up for any moisture loss and coat the meat.

Serving Up Finger-Lickin’ Good Beef Finger Ribs

Allow the grilled beef finger ribs to rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing between the bones to serve. Dig in while hot! Serve any extra sauce on the side.

Pair your grilled ribs with classic BBQ sides like cornbread, coleslaw, baked beans, mac and cheese, collard greens, or potato salad. Don’t forget a cold beer or sweet tea!

With the right preparation, careful grilling, and moisture-adding tricks, you can enjoy the ultimate tender and juicy beef finger ribs straight from your backyard. Get creative with rubs and sauces. Beef finger ribs handle bold flavors beautifully.