The temperature to smoke pork ribs varies depending on the method used. Here are some examples:
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3-2-1 Method: This method involves smoking the ribs at a low heat, unwrapped, for 3 hours, then wrapping them in aluminum foil or butcher paper and smoking them for 2 more hours, and finally smoking them unwrapped with sauce for 1 more hour. The target temperature for this method is 250°F (121°C).
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Competition Style: For competition-style ribs, smoke them for 1 hour at 250°F (121°C), then wrap them in aluminum foil and smoke for 2 more hours. During this time, make sure the ribs reach a target temperature of 190°F-205°F (88°C-96°C).
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Low and Slow: For a low and slow method, smoke the ribs at 225°F-250°F (107°C-121°C) for 4 to 5 hours.
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Eye-ball thermometer: Some people prefer to cook ribs without measuring the temperature. Instead, they look for signs of doneness such as meat pulling back from the bone and the rack bending easily without breaking. This method usually takes around 3-4.5 hours for back ribs and 5-6 hours for spare ribs.
In summary, the temperature to smoke pork ribs can range from 225°F-250°F (107°C-121°C) to 250°F (121°C) depending on the method used.
