Memphis Mop
While Memphis ribs are typically (not always) done without sauce, they do get some moisture, tenderization, and flavor from a good mop. Mops are applied during the smoking process to prevent the meat from drying out and to create a layering of flavor that is vital to a great barbecue.Memphis mops, like most barbecue mops, are made with vinegar and some seasoning. The vinegar is used as the mop base when you want to tenderize the meat, as you do when smoking ribs. The seasonings match the rib rub.The tool you use to apply a mop sauce looks like a miniature kitchen mop. The cotton fibers of the little mop head hold just enough of the liquid mop to apply it to the meat. You don't want to disturb the spice rub on the meat, and having the same spices in the mop sauce ensures you are adding some back. Another option is to use a spray bottle which is less likely to disturb your spice rub. This works best if your spices are well-grounded so they don't clog the sprayer. You can process your spice rub in a clean coffee grinder to get them well-pulverized.
$5–$8 depending on spices and pantry staples
Equipment
- Large Jar or Bowl – For mixing and storing mop sauce.
- whisk – To blend ingredients.
- Mini Cotton Mop – Traditional tool for applying mop.
- Spray Bottle (optional) – Alternative application method.
- Refrigerator/Safe Container – To store mop sauce.
Ingredients
- 2 cups apple cider vinegar
- 1 cup water
- ¼ cup Memphis Rub
- ¼ cup barbecue sauce optional
Instructions
- To make the mop, combine all the ingredients in a large jar and shake well. (This mop will settle, so shake each time before using.)
- Store the mop in an air-tight container and refrigerate for up to 3 months.
How to Use this Memphis Mop
- Apply the mop to the meat during the smoking process.
- If you are using a little cotton mop, it is best to place some of the mop sauce in a separate dish to sue each time. This prevents the main container of the mop sauce from getting contaminated with bacteria. Using a spray bottle can prevent this problem.
- The Memphis rub is used to season the mop typically has over a dozen ingredients, with the heart of it being paprika. This spice gives the ribs a rich red color without adding a tomato-based barbecue sauce. While the rub is generously added to the meat before it hits the heat, some of the rub is added to the mop to continue to layer the same flavors. The other seasonings in the rub include garlic powder, onion powder, mild chili powder, salt, pepper, oregano, thyme, cumin, coriander, allspice, and celery seeds. This gives the complex flavor typical of the Memphis-style.
Notes
Customizations:
- Sweeter Mop: Add 1–2 tbsp brown sugar.
- Spicier Mop: Stir in cayenne or hot sauce.
- With Tomato Flavor: Include the optional barbecue sauce for a richer glaze.
Storage Tips:
- Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 months.
- Shake well before each use as seasonings will settle.
Serving Tips:
- Use to baste ribs, pork shoulder, or chicken during smoking.
- Pair with a dry-rubbed rib recipe for authentic Memphis-style BBQ.
Cooking Tips:
- Always pour mop sauce into a smaller dish before applying to avoid contamination.
- If using a spray bottle, grind spices finely to prevent clogging.
- Apply mop gently to avoid disturbing the dry rub crust.
Nutrition
Calories: 64kcalCarbohydrates: 10gProtein: 0.2gFat: 0.1gSaturated Fat: 0.01gPolyunsaturated Fat: 0.02gMonounsaturated Fat: 0.02gSodium: 221mgPotassium: 147mgFiber: 0.2gSugar: 7gVitamin A: 46IUVitamin C: 0.1mgCalcium: 18mgIron: 0.4mg
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