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Simple Smoked Beef Short Ribs

These simple smoked beef short ribs are the ultimate treat for any barbecue enthusiast. By using a tangy mustard and pickle juice slather as a base, the meat remains incredibly succulent while the savoury dry rub forms a beautiful, dark crust known as the bark. This high-protein dish relies on low and slow cooking to break down the connective tissue, resulting in beef that is exceptionally tender and rich in deep, smoky flavour.

Ideal for a relaxed weekend lunch or a hearty garden gathering, these ribs are best served with a side of crunchy slaw or corn on the cob. Resting the meat under foil is a crucial final step, allowing the juices to redistribute for a melt-in-the-mouth texture. Whether you are a seasoned pitmaster or a smoking novice, this straightforward method ensures a professional result every time.

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Ingredients for Simple Smoked Beef Short Ribs

  • 6 (4- or 5-inch-long) beef short ribs

  • Barbecue sauce, for serving

  • 1 cup prepared yellow mustard

  • 1/4 cup dill pickle juice

  • 1/4 cup red wine vinegar

  • 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce

  • 2 tablespoons soy sauce

  • 1 teaspoon granulated garlic

  • 1 teaspoon ground ginger

  • 2 tablespoons sea salt

  • 2 tablespoons coarse or restaurant grind black pepper

  • 1 tablespoon granulated garlic

  • 2 teaspoons white cane sugar

Remove the ribs from the refrigerator and outline the bones with a sharp, pointed paring knife. Combine all the ingredients for the mustard slather in a small bowl and blend well. Brush the slather over the entire surface of the ribs.

Combine all the ingredients for the rub in a small bowl and blend well. Sprinkle the rub over the slathered ribs.

Heat a cooker to 110°C to 121°C. Oil the rack and place the ribs on it bone side down over indirect heat. Cover and cook for 1 to 1 1/2 hours. Turn and cook for 45 minutes more, then turn and cook for another 45 minutes, or until the ribs reach 85°C on a meat thermometer.

Transfer the ribs to a cutting board and let them rest, covered loosely with aluminum foil, for 10 to 15 minutes. Cut the ribs into individual pieces and serve with barbecue sauce.

Disclaimer

While every effort has been made to ensure the information is accurate and up to date, individual needs may vary and dietary requirements can differ based on personal health conditions. Always check food labels and allergen information before preparing or consuming any recipe. If you have specific health concerns, allergies, intolerances, or are following a medically prescribed diet, seek advice from your GP, pharmacist, or a registered dietitian before making significant changes to your diet or lifestyle.

Article history

The information on this page is peer reviewed by qualified clinicians.

  • 28 Jan 2026 | Originally published

    Authored by:

    UK recipe editors

    Peer reviewed by

    UK recipe editors
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