Preheat Your Traeger Grill:

Set your Traeger grill to 225°F (107°C) and allow it to preheat with the lid closed for about 15 minutes. This slow and low temperature is crucial for achieving tender, flavorful ribs.

Prepare the Ribs:

Start by removing the membrane from the back of the ribs. This tough layer can prevent flavors from penetrating the meat and affect the texture.

Pat the ribs dry with paper towels, then coat them with a thin layer of yellow mustard. The mustard acts as a binder, helping the rub to adhere better and adding a slight tang to the ribs.

Generously apply the Traeger Pork & Poultry Rub (or your preferred rub) all over the ribs, making sure to cover both sides evenly.

Smoke the Ribs:

Place the ribs directly on the grill grates, bone side down. Close the lid and smoke the ribs for 3 hours. This initial smoking phase is key to building that rich, smoky flavor.

During this time, mix the apple juice and apple cider vinegar in a spray bottle. Every hour, spritz the ribs with this mixture to keep them moist and enhance their flavor.

Wrap the Ribs:

After 3 hours, remove the ribs from the grill and wrap them tightly in aluminum foil. Before sealing the foil, add a sprinkle of brown sugar and a bit of the apple juice mixture to each rack.

Return the wrapped ribs to the grill and continue cooking for another 2 hours. This phase, known as the “crutch,” helps tenderize the meat and speed up the cooking process.

Unwrap and Glaze:

Carefully unwrap the ribs and place them back on the grill. If you like your ribs with a sticky glaze, brush on your favorite BBQ sauce at this stage.

Increase the grill temperature to 275°F (135°C) and cook the ribs for an additional 1 hour, allowing the sauce to set and the ribs to develop a beautiful bark.

Rest and Serve:

Once the ribs have finished cooking, remove them from the grill and let them rest for 10-15 minutes. Resting allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, ensuring every bite is flavorful and moist.

Slice the ribs between the bones and serve with extra BBQ sauce on the side.