Char-Smoked Baby Back Ribs

Step 1: In a large saucepan over medium high heat combine the salt and 8 cups water, stirring until salt dissolves (a few minutes) and remove from heat and add syrup. Let cool and then pour brine into a 9 x 13 inch baking dish and add ribs and cover and refrigerate overnight.

Step 2: Using a charcoal grill build a medium heat fir. Drain ribs and pat dry with paper towels; season with salt and pepper. Grill ribs, turning, for one hour or until charred on both sides. Set aside.

Step 3: In a bowl combine the peanut oil, scallions and salt. Grill scallions for 5 minutes, turning once and then transfer to a blender with the barbecue sauce, cilantro and soy sauce and puree until smooth and set aside.

Step 4: Prepare grill to smoke the ribs by first soaking 1 pound of hickory wood chips in water for 30 minutes; drain. Spread the wood chips evenly over 5 pounds of hot coals (do not smother coals) and then close the grill lid (leaving vents slightly open) to allow the wood to smoke (under 5 minutes).

Step 5: Place the par cooked ribs on the grill and close the lid and smile for 35-45 minutes or until th meat is fragrant and dark.

Step 6: Transfer ribs to a cutting board and let rest for 10 minutes; pour on the reserved barbecue sauce. Cut ribs into individual pieces and serve.