Smoked Rib Tips With Spicy Apple Barbecue Sauce

First, make the rub. Place the salt, pepper, sugar, paprika, garlic powder, meat tenderizer, and cayenne in a bowl and stir to mix, breaking up any lumps with your fingers.

Arrange the rib tips on a baking sheet. Sprinkle on both sides with the rub, rubbing the spices into the meat.

Set up your smoker and preheat to 225 to 250 degrees F.

Arrange the seasoned rib tips bone side up in your smoker. Smoke until nicely browned and very tender, 5 to 6 hours in all, turning the rib tips over half way through.

Transfer the rib tips to a cutting board and cut widthwise into 1-1/2 inch pieces. Figure on 7 or 8 pieces for serving. Spoon a little Spicy Apple Barbecue Sauce over the ribs, serving the remaining sauce on the side.

For Spicy Apple Barbecue Sauce: Place the ketchup, apple juice, molasses, vinegar, brown and granulated sugar, celery seed, red pepper, cinnamon, and cloves in a large heavy saucepan and gradually bring to a boil over medium heat, whisking to mix.

Reduce the heat to low and simmer the sauce until thick and richly flavored, about 40 minutes, whisking often. When properly reduced, you'll have about 2-1/2 cups.

Correct the seasoning, adding salt and pepper to taste. The sauce should be highly seasoned.