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Set the table, pass the napkins, and dig into one of the most satiating and soul-satisfying meals of summer. There are hundreds of regional variations, but all you need is one recipe to ensure perfect ribs. All the cooking takes place largely unattended, with very little prep work -- and even less fuss.

The Shopping List
Perfect ribs require the right ingredients, but there's no need to go out of your way to find the requisite components.

The Proper Cut
Saint Louis-style pork ribs, available at most supermarkets, have a rich taste, and a robust texture. The ribs' generous amount of meat is enhanced -- but not overwhelmed -- by barbecue rubs and sauces. Unlike baby back or spare ribs, this rack is trimmed to a neat rectangle with uniform, not tapered, ends that ensure even cooking.

Spice and Sauce
Nothing fancy here. Common ingredients, such as mustard powder and brown sugar, can create rubs and sauces to envy.

Grilling Gear
All your equipment needs can be fulfilled at a hardware store, where entire aisles are devoted to kettle grills, chimney starters, drip pans, tongs, thermometers, lump charcoal, and smoking chips.

Recipe
Barbecued Pork Ribs

First Published: June 2008