Weekend Barbecue Party

Written by Rosemary Mantini | 01 July 2010
Posted in KitchenMama

June 21st may have been the official start of summer, but for most people July 1st marks the real beginning. Vacations, days at the beach, the end of another year of school, long, hot days -- so many reasons to celebrate. Eating al fresco is definitely the way to go.

This Canada Day fill the cooler with cold drinks and prime the barbecue. I've got some finger-licking recipes for you.

Some people call ribs "bones" because they have so little meat on them. Quick lesson: baby back ribs are cut from the top section closest to the spine, while spare ribs come from the bottom part closest to the breast. Either type is delicious. Baby backs aren't as meaty as spare ribs, but they are more tender. And don't limit yourself to pork. Beef ribs are larger and just as yummy. Do you know anyone who boils the ribs before grilling them? That's a completely unnecessary step, actually. Lay them on the grill and cook them over low heat, and they should be cooked through in about 15 minutes.

I know that the prevailing belief is that you'll know when the ribs are done because the meat will fall off the bone. If that's how you like it, by all means, enjoy. But, there's something to be said for not overcooking them. Try marinating the ribs for a few hours, then cook them just until they're done. You'll discover that they're full of their own special flavour without any greasiness that comes from the fat in the meat.

Try these this weekend:

Grilled Mustard Ribs and Wings - It's super easy and quick because the marinade calls for ingredients that are all probably already stashed in your fridge and pantry.

Pico de Gallo Salad - Light, refreshing and a perfect accompaniment to the ribs.

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