What's on Your 4th of July Menu?

Burgers or Ribs? Barbecue or Grilling? Let Meats R Us navigate this dilemma with you... Many people don't know the difference between the cooking process of Grilling vs Barbecuing, so we are here to demystify this for you! Barbecue is traditionally a long, slow process. It requires more preparation and longer cook times at lower temperatures. Barbecuing is ideal for pork back ribs or pork spare ribs. Grilling typically refers to using high heat for shorter times for a quick sear. Ideal products for grilling require minimal seasoning, normally  just enough to bring out the natural flavors. Grilling is best for steaks, pork chops, burgers or hot dogs. If you have the time and want to really WOW your guests, opt for our Perfect Barbecued Pork Back Ribs Recipe. If you prefer an easier route and want to maximize the time relaxing with your guests, check out our tips for grilling the juiciest burger.  

Perfect Barbecued Pork Back Ribs Recipe

What you'll need:

• Meats R Us Pork Back Ribs
• Your favorite rib rub
• Your favorite barbecue sauce
• 1/2 cup of apple juice
• Aluminum foil

Let's get started!

1. 1. Preheat grill to 300 degrees and prep ribs by applying your favorite rub liberally to all sides.
   2. Once grill is ready, place ribs directly on grill, bone side down. Allow to cook for 30 minutes without opening the grill. The ribs should be browned on all sides; if not, allow to cook for an additional 10 minutes before removing from grill.
   3. For tender ribs- wrap in aluminum foil and steam by adding apple juice to the foil. Seal tightly to keep the juice in the packet. Increase the temperature to 375 degrees and place ribs over indirect heat. The juice will begin to boil, allowing the meat to tenderize. Let ribs steam in the foil for 30 minutes.
   4. Turn down heat to 250 degrees and unwrap the ribs. Place ribs in same place over indirect heat to finish cooking. Sauce ribs on one side, close lid and cook for 5 minutes. Flip ribs and complete the same process for the second side. Use this technique for 30 minutes for a thick sauce with an authentic texture and flavor.
   5. Using a meat thermometer, check the internal temperature of the ribs. Tender, juicy ribs will be between 185-190 degrees. Remove ribs from heat, cut and serve!

     

Do's and Don'ts for Grilling the Perfect Pub Burger

Do:

• Stock up on enough Meats R Us 3 ounce Pub Burgers for the whole crowd
• Allow the grill to fully heat before adding burgers
• Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the burgers (125 degrees for rare, 135 degrees for medium-rare, 145 degrees for medium, 160 for well done)

Don't:

• Over season the burgers- allow the natural flavors to really shine
• Press or flatten the burgers- this will force the fat and flavor from the burgers which can dry out the patties
• Forget to pay attention! Burgers typically cook in 4-5 minutes per side (depending on desired level of doneness)
• Add the cheese too soon. After the final flip, add your cheese about 2 minutes before removing burgers from the grill. This will ensure it doesn't melt completely off

    However you choose to cook for your Independence Day celebration, make sure to include Meats R Us in your festivities! Relax and enjoy the food, family and fireworks!