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Smoked Bison Back Ribs

Peer reviewed by UK recipe editorsAuthored by UK recipe editorsOriginally published 16 Jan 2026

Meets Patient’s editorial guidelines

These smoked bison back ribs offer a lean and deeply savoury alternative to traditional beef or pork. Bison is prized for its rich flavour and lower fat content, making it an excellent choice for those seeking a lighter yet satisfying barbecue option. Coated in a fragrant rub of citrusy lemon pepper, rosemary, and a hint of cayenne, the meat is slow-cooked until it reaches a tender, pull-apart consistency that carries a delicate smoky aroma.

As a diabetes-friendly main course, this dish focuses on high-quality protein and aromatics rather than heavy sugars. When finished with a light glaze, the ribs develop a beautiful mahogany colour and a sticky, caramelised exterior. Serve these ribs at your next family gathering alongside a crisp green salad or roasted root vegetables for a balanced and wholesome homemade meal.

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Ingredients for Smoked Bison Back Ribs

  • 1 slab bison back ribs

  • Barbecue sauce, for serving

  • 1 tablespoon lemon pepper

  • 1 tablespoon garlic salt

  • 1 teaspoon cayenne

  • 1/2 teaspoons ground rosemary

  • 1/4 teaspoons ground thyme

How to make Smoked Bison Back Ribs

Heat a cooker to 110°C to 121°C. Remove the ribs from the refrigerator and outline them with a sharp, pointed paring knife.

Combine all the ingredients for the rub in a small bowl and blend well. Season the ribs all over with the rub.

Oil the grate and place the ribs on it bone side down over indirect heat. Cover and cook for 1 to 1 1/2 hours. Turn and cook for 45 minutes more, then turn and cook for another 45 minutes, or until pull-apart tender.

Increase the heat to 177°C to 204°C. Glaze the ribs with the sauce and cook for 5 to 7 minutes, being careful not to burn the ribs, then turn and glaze again and cook for another 5 to 7 minutes. Repeat 2 or 3 times, if desired.

Transfer the ribs to a cutting board and let them rest, covered loosely with aluminum foil, for 10 to 15 minutes. Cut the ribs into individual pieces and serve with barbecue sauce.

Disclaimer

While every effort has been made to ensure the information is accurate and up to date, individual needs may vary and dietary requirements can differ based on personal health conditions. Always check food labels and allergen information before preparing or consuming any recipe. If you have specific health concerns, allergies, intolerances, or are following a medically prescribed diet, seek advice from your GP, pharmacist, or a registered dietitian before making significant changes to your diet or lifestyle.

Article history

The information on this page is peer reviewed by qualified clinicians.

  • 16 Jan 2026 | Originally published

    Authored by:

    UK recipe editors

    Peer reviewed by

    UK recipe editors
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