RecipesCuisine: Barbecue 17 August 2026 Updated at: 25 August 20261 min read

Charcoal-Grilled Beef Ribs

Name: Charcoal-Grilled Beef Ribs
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 150 min
Total time: 180 min
Yield: 5
Cuisine: Barbecue
Ingredients: 1.5kg beef ribs; 4 garlic cloves, finely chopped; 2 tbsp coarse salt; 1 tbsp freshly ground black pepper; 1 tbsp sweet paprika (optional); 1 tbsp olive oil; 120ml water, for the water pan

Tender beef ribs cooked low and slow over charcoal with garlic, black pepper and paprika: a generous barbecue recipe made for sharing.

Slow-cooked beef ribs are made for relaxed weekend barbecues. A simple garlic, black pepper and paprika rub builds plenty of flavour while gentle charcoal heat helps the meat become tender.

Allow time for the ribs to marinate, cook them over indirect heat with a water pan, then rest before carving. The result is a generous barbecue centrepiece that is easy to share.

Recipe details

Preparation: 30 min
Cooking: 150 min
Serves: 5
Difficulty: Easy

Ingredients

1.5kg beef ribs
4 garlic cloves, finely chopped
2 tbsp coarse salt
1 tbsp freshly ground black pepper
1 tbsp sweet paprika (optional)
1 tbsp olive oil
120ml water, for the water pan

Method

Using a sharp knife, make shallow cuts between the rib bones so the seasoning can penetrate.

Mix the garlic, salt, black pepper, paprika and olive oil, then rub the mixture all over the ribs.

Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or preferably for several hours or overnight.

Set up a covered charcoal barbecue for indirect cooking over a medium-low heat. Place a heatproof water pan beneath the cooking area and add the water.

Place the ribs bone-side down away from the direct heat and close the lid.

Cook for 2-3 hours, turning approximately every 30 minutes, until tender. Keep the barbecue temperature steady and top up the water pan if needed.

Check that the meat is thoroughly cooked and tender before removing it from the barbecue.

Rest for 10 minutes, then carve between the bones and serve hot.