Preheat your smoker to 225°F using hickory or applewood chips for a clean smoke profile.
Remove the tough silver skin membrane from the back of the rib rack using a paper towel for grip.
In a small bowl, whisk together the smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, sea salt, black pepper, and dry mustard.
Apply the dry rub generously to both sides of the ribs, pressing the spices into the meat.
Place the ribs directly on the smoker grate, bone-side down, and smoke for 3 hours.
In a separate bowl, combine the tomato paste, apple cider vinegar, liquid smoke, and water to create a thick glaze.
Brush the glaze over the top of the ribs and continue smoking for another 2 hours until the meat is tender and pulls back from the bone.
Remove from the smoker and let the ribs rest for 10 minutes before slicing into individual portions.