Pork ribs in barbecue sauce are a classic comfort food, perfect for grilling or baking. Here’s a straightforward recipe to make tender, flavorful ribs coated in a delicious barbecue sauce:
Ingredients
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For the Ribs:
- 2-3 lbs (900 g - 1.4 kg) pork ribs (baby back or spare ribs)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon paprika
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
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For the Barbecue Sauce:
- 1 cup ketchup
- 1/2 cup apple cider vinegar
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1/4 cup honey
- 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional, for a smoky flavor)
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
Instructions
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Prepare the Ribs:
- Preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C) if baking, or prepare your grill for indirect heat.
- Remove the membrane from the back of the ribs if it hasn't already been removed. This will help make the ribs more tender.
- In a small bowl, mix together the paprika, brown sugar, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, pepper, and cayenne pepper (if using).
- Rub this spice mixture evenly over both sides of the ribs.
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Bake the Ribs (Oven Method):
- Place the ribs on a large piece of aluminum foil, bone side down. Wrap the foil around the ribs to create a tight packet.
- Place the foil-wrapped ribs on a baking sheet and bake for 2.5-3 hours, or until the ribs are tender.
- Carefully open the foil (be cautious of the hot steam) and brush the ribs with the barbecue sauce.
- Return the ribs to the oven, uncovered, and bake for an additional 30 minutes, or until the sauce is caramelized and sticky.
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Grill the Ribs (Grill Method):
- Preheat your grill to medium heat, setting it up for indirect cooking.
- Place the ribs, bone side down, on the grill over indirect heat. Cover and cook for 2-2.5 hours, turning occasionally.
- Brush the ribs with barbecue sauce during the last 30 minutes of grilling, turning and basting occasionally to build up a nice glaze.
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Make the Barbecue Sauce:
- In a medium saucepan, combine the ketchup, apple cider vinegar, brown sugar, honey, Worcestershire sauce, Dijon mustard, smoked paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder.
- Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat, stirring frequently. Reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 10-15 minutes until the sauce has thickened. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper to taste.
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Serve:
- Once the ribs are cooked and the sauce is caramelized, remove them from the oven or grill and let them rest for a few minutes.
- Slice the ribs between the bones and serve with additional barbecue sauce on the side.
Tips
- Marinating: For extra flavor, you can marinate the ribs with the spice rub and refrigerate for a few hours or overnight before cooking.
- Basting: If grilling, baste the ribs with barbecue sauce in the last 30 minutes to avoid burning the sauce.
Enjoy your flavorful, fall-off-the-bone pork ribs with barbecue sauce!