📖 Instructions

1. First, get your ribs ready! Remove them from the packaging and pat them dry with paper towels. This helps the rub stick better. Flip the ribs over and remove the thin membrane on the back by sliding a knife under it and peeling it off. Trust me, you want to do this!.
2. Mix all those dry rub ingredients together in a bowl – that’s your brown sugar, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, chili powder, cayenne pepper, cumin, salt, and black pepper. Make sure it’s all evenly distributed.
3. Now, generously rub that mixture all over the ribs, making sure every nook and cranny is covered. Really massage it in there! Wrap the ribs tightly in plastic wrap and let them sit in the fridge for at least 2 hours, or preferably overnight. This gives the flavors time to meld.
4. Time to get smoky! Preheat your smoker to 225°F (107°C). If you don't have a smoker, no worries—I included oven instructions in the FAQ. Place the ribs in the smoker and cook for about 3 hours, or until they reach an internal temperature of around 175-185°F (80-85°C). You want them tender, but not falling apart.
5. While the ribs are smoking, let's make that incredible BBQ sauce! In a saucepan, combine the mango puree, ketchup, apple cider vinegar, maple syrup, Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, lime juice, ginger (minced or ground), red pepper flakes, and a pinch of salt. Bring it to a simmer over medium heat.
6. Let the sauce simmer for about 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it thickens slightly and the flavors have all come together. Taste and adjust the seasonings as needed. I sometimes add a dash of hot sauce if I'm feeling extra spicy!
7. Once the ribs are nice and tender, take them out of the smoker. Increase the smoker temperature to 250F. Brush them generously with the mango BBQ sauce on both sides. Put them back in the smoker for another 30-45 minutes, basting with the sauce every 15 minutes. This will caramelize the sauce and give the ribs that sticky, delicious glaze.
8. If you want even more char, you can finish the ribs on a preheated grill for a few minutes per side, basting with the sauce. This step is optional, but it adds a nice touch. Remove the ribs from the smoker (or grill) and let them rest for about 10 minutes before slicing and serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in more tender and flavorful ribs.
9. Garnish with fresh mango slices and a sprinkle of cilantro. Serve with your favorite sides, like coleslaw, corn on the cob, or potato salad. Dig in and enjoy these Spicy Mango BBQ Ribs—they're a flavor explosion you won't forget!