Imagine sinking your teeth into a sandwich packed with the rich, smoky taste of slow-cooked ribs, combined with the refreshing crunch of coleslaw. That’s what you get with a Memphis-Style BBQ Rib Sandwich with Coleslaw—a culinary delight that hails from the heart of the American South. The Memphis approach to barbecue is all about perfecting the balance between sweet, tangy, and smoky flavours, creating an unforgettable experience for your taste buds.
This type of BBQ is known for its dry rubs and its love of pork, especially ribs. The ribs are often slow-cooked to achieve tender, fall-off-the-bone perfection. When paired with a tangy and creamy coleslaw, this sandwich becomes a symphony of textures and tastes that will make any meal special.
Whether you’re a seasoned BBQ enthusiast or a newbie looking to explore new recipes, the Memphis-Style BBQ Rib Sandwich with Coleslaw is a must-try. Not only is it a crowd-pleaser, but it also brings a touch of authenticity to your barbecue gatherings. Imagine the delight on your guests’ faces as they bite into this succulent sandwich, bursting with flavours that are both bold and well-balanced.
Incorporating this dish into your menu will elevate your cooking repertoire, allowing you to bring a taste of Memphis right to your kitchen. So, get ready to impress your family and friends with this mouth-watering recipe that combines the best of Memphis barbecue with the fresh zest of coleslaw. Step-by-Step Instructions:
Memphis-Style BBQ Rib Sandwich with Coleslaw Recipe
Ingredients
Forthe BBQ Ribs:
- 1.5 kg pork ribs
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil
- 2 tbsp smoked paprika
- 1 tbsp garlic powder
- 1 tbsp onion powder
- 1 tbsp brown sugar
- 1 tbsp cayenne pepper
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 200 ml barbecue sauce
For the Coleslaw:
- 300 g cabbage, finely shredded
- 1 large carrot, grated
- 1 small red onion, finely sliced
- 3 tbsp mayonnaise
- 1 tsp mustard
- 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
For the Sandwich:
- 4 brioche Rolls
- butter, for toasting
Instructions
Prepare the Ribs:
- Preheat your oven to 150°C (300°F).
- Remove the membrane from the back of the ribs.
- In a small bowl, mix together the smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, brown sugar, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper.
- Rub the ribs with vegetable oil and then coat evenly with the spice mix.
Cook the Ribs:
- Place the ribs on a baking tray lined with foil. Cover tightly with another sheet of foil.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 2 hours or until tender.
- Once cooked, remove the top foil and brush the ribs with barbecue sauce.
- Increase the oven temperature to 220°C (430°F) and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes to caramelise the sauce.
Prepare the Coleslaw:
- In a large bowl, combine the cabbage, carrot, and red onion.
- Ina small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, mustard, salt, and black pepper.
- Pour the dressing over the vegetables and toss well. Refrigerate until needed.
Assemble the Sandwiches:
- Slice the brioche buns in half and butter each side lightly.
- Toast the buns on a hot pan or grill until golden.
- Cut the ribs into sections to fit the buns, removing the bones as you go.
- Place the rib meat onto the bottom half of each bun.
- Top with a generous portion of coleslaw.
- Finish with the top half of the bun and serve immediately.
Notes
Tips
Preparing the ribs is essential for achieving the perfect Memphis-Style BBQ Rib Sandwich with Coleslaw. For the best flavour, allow the ribs to marinate in the fridge for at least two hours, or preferably overnight. Cover the ribs during marination to let the spices penetrate the meat deeply. When you’re ready to cook, remove the ribs from the fridge and let them sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes. This helps in achieving even cooking. Whether you opt for grilling or baking, brushing the ribs with olive oil before cooking will help achieve that desirable caramelised finish. The goal is to achieve a tender, fall-off-the-bone texture with a smoky, slightly charred crust. Periodically basting the ribs with Memphis-style BBQ sauce as they cook will infuse them with an irresistible blend of sweet, tangy, and smoky flavours.Nutrition
What Makes Memphis-Style BBQ Special?
Memphis-style barbecue is famous for its slow-smoked meats and bold, tangy sauces. Unlike some other regional styles, Memphis BBQ often uses a dry rub packed with spices to create a deep, flavourful crust before the ribs are smoked to perfection. While some enjoy ribs dry, others love them slathered in a sweet, tangy, tomato-based sauce that gives them that signature sticky, finger-licking goodness.
Why You’ll Love This Sandwich
- Perfect balance of flavours: The smoky ribs pair beautifully with the creamy, tangy coleslaw.
- Great for gatherings: Impress your guests at BBQs, game nights, or weekend cookouts.
- Authentic Southern taste: A true Memphis classic that brings the taste of the South to your kitchen.
Cooking Techniques
Cooking the ribs to perfection is crucial for a memorable Memphis-Style BBQ Rib Sandwich with Coleslaw. Whether you prefer grilling or baking, both methods will deliver succulent results.
For the grill method, start by preheating your grill to a medium heat. Lightly brush the ribs with olive oil to prevent sticking and place them on the grill. Cover and cook for approximately 90 minutes, turning occasionally. Basting the ribs with Memphis-style BBQ sauce throughout the cooking process will ensure they absorb maximum flavour. The grill method imparts a distinct smoky essence that enhances the overall taste.
If you opt for the oven method, preheat your oven to 150°C (300°F). Arrange the seasoned ribs on a baking tray and cover them with aluminium foil. Bake for about two and a half to three hours, basting with BBQ sauce every 30 minutes. Once the ribs are tender, remove the foil and increase the oven temperature to 200°C (400°F). Continue baking for an additional 10 minutes to achieve a caramelised finish on the ribs.
Both methods aim to produce tender, fall-off-the-bone ribs with a delightful smoky, slightly charred crust. Each basting session with Memphis-style BBQ sauce infuses the ribs with a delicious blend of sweet, tangy, and smoky notes, making them irresistible.
Serving Suggestions
Elevate your Memphis-Style BBQ Rib Sandwich with Coleslaw by pairing it with classic Southern sides that complement its robust flavours. Consider serving corn on the cob slathered with butter and sprinkled with a dash of paprika. Baked beans with a hint of molasses and bacon provide a hearty addition, while a crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette offers a refreshing contrast.
For an authentic barbecue experience, whip up some homemade potato salad or serve crispy sweet potato fries on the side. These options not only add variety but also enhance the overall meal.
To quench your thirst, iced tea or a chilled beer makes an excellent accompaniment. If you prefer non-alcoholic options, try a zesty lemonade or a fruity iced drink to balance the smoky flavours of the sandwich.
Presentation is crucial; arrange the sandwiches on a platter and garnish with fresh herbs for an appealing touch. Serve your sides in attractive bowls to create a visually pleasing spread that will impress your guests.
This careful attention to detail in both flavour and presentation ensures a memorable dining experience, capturing the essence of Memphis barbecue in every bite.