Memphis Rendezvous Ribs

Charlie Vergos’ Rendezvous Charcoal Ribs has been a fixture in Memphis since 1948. While the real recipe is closely guarded, here’s a close approximation by Meathead Goldwyn.

Serves: 6 Save

Ingredients (21)

  • Seasoning mix:
  • 4 tablespoon paprika
  • 2 tablespoon powdered garlic
  • 2 tablespoon mild chili powder
  • 1 1/2 tablespoon ground black pepper
  • 1 1/2 tablespoon coarse salt
  • 2 teaspoon whole yellow mustard seed
  • 1 1/2 teaspoon crushed celery seed
  • 1 1/2 teaspoon whole celery seed
  • 1 1/2 teaspoon dried crushed oregano
  • 1 1/2 teaspoon dried crushed thyme
  • 1 1/2 teaspoon whole allspice seeds
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground allspice
  • 1 1/2 teaspoon whole coriander seed
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground coriander
  • Mop sauce and ribs:
  • 6 tablespoon Seasoning Mix
  • 1/2 cup distilled vinegar
  • 1/2 cup water
  • 4 tablespoon ketchup or tomato-based barbecue sauce
  • 2 slabs baby back ribs (about 4 pounds)

Ingredient Facts and Health Benefits

Discover fascinating facts and health benefits about some of the ingredients in the recipe, including other delicious recipes!

Directions

  1. To make the seasoning, mix all ingredients in a bowl. Store in an airtight jar. Makes about 1 cup.
  2. To make the sauce and ribs, mix 2 tablespoons seasoning mix with vinegar, water and barbecue sauce in a bowl. Makes about 1 cup.
  3. Grill or bake ribs, basting with sauce. When done, sprinkle liberally with seasoning mix.