Issue link: http://read.uberflip.com/i/958
feature 33 June 2009 Sure, hotdogs and burgers are quick and easy, ketchup and buns are cheap, but if you really want to impress, you need to introduce planning and patience into your BBQ equations. I'm talking ribs and steak, my friend. The good stuff. Stick with me and you'll be the envy of your dockmates; and you never know, you might even get compliments from that aunt who has never really seemed to like you. Ribs As I said earlier, you need to set aside a solid chunk of time to ensure you end with a good product. Excellent ribs need at least one to two hours of preparation time, and if you want to marinate (a must, in my opinion), we're looking at starting the process the night before. Marinades are seasoned liquids with acidic ingredients such as vinegar, wine or lemon juice with added oils, herbs and other sea- sonings. These all soak into the ribs, adding delicious flavors you wouldn't otherwise get. Marinating can also be used to tenderize tougher meat cuts. To use this technique effectively with ribs, you should always marinate in a refrigerator, never at room temperature. Red meat should be marinated at least 12-14 hours, which is why it's easier to start this the night before you want to cook. Marinate ribs in a food-safe plastic bag or glass or ceramic container; do not use aluminum. Don't use thick marinades, as it is much more difficult for them to penetrate the meat, and cut your meat thin (not really an issue with ribs in particular, but good to know in general). Don't Overdo It The problem most people have when cooking ribs is overcooking, which can make the ribs dry and tough. Another concern is under- cooking, which can lead to health problems like food poisoning. How do you deal with this? Pre-cook your ribs. You can do so ei- ther by boiling, steaming, or slow-cooking them in the oven before you ever slap them down on the grill. Adding a seasoning to the ribs before using these methods helps give your ribs extra flavor Another suggestion is to boil or steam your ribs with beer, which BEEF RIB MARINADE 1 cup soy sauce 4 tablespoons. brown sugar 2 tablespoons chopped green onions 1 tablespoon chopped garlic Black pepper, ground