Indulge in the smoky, sweet flavors of baby back ribs that melt in your mouth. This recipe is perfect for gatherings and barbecues, offering a delightful combination of spices and a sticky glaze that will have everyone coming back for seconds. Whether you’re a seasoned grill master or a novice in the kitchen, this recipe is easy to follow and promises to deliver mouthwatering results that will make you the star of the cookout.
Ingredients
- 2 racks of baby back ribs
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
- 1 tablespoon garlic powder
- 1 tablespoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup barbecue sauce
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe serves 4 people. Preparation time is about 15 minutes, and cooking time is approximately 2.5 to 3 hours, depending on the cooking method.
Nutritional Value
Each serving (1/4 rack) contains approximately:
- Calories: 350
- Protein: 25g
- Fat: 24g
- Carbohydrates: 14g
(Note: Nutritional values may vary based on specific ingredients used.)
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
- Preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C).
- Remove the membrane from the back of the ribs.
- Rub the ribs with olive oil.
- Mix brown sugar, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne, salt, and pepper in a bowl.
- Coat the ribs evenly with the spice mixture.
- Wrap the ribs tightly in aluminum foil.
- Place wrapped ribs on a baking sheet in the oven.
- Bake for 2.5 to 3 hours until tender.
- Remove from the oven and carefully unwrap the foil.
- Brush barbecue sauce over the ribs and grill for an additional 10-15 minutes for a caramelized finish.
Alternative Ingredients
You can substitute brown sugar with honey or maple syrup for a different sweetness profile. Additionally, if you prefer a spicier kick, consider using hot sauce in the barbecue sauce or adding chili powder to the spice mix.
Serving and Pairings
These baby back ribs pair beautifully with coleslaw, cornbread, or grilled vegetables. For beverages, a chilled lager or sweet iced tea complements the flavors perfectly.
Storage and Reheating
Store leftover ribs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, wrap them in foil and warm them in the oven at 250°F (120°C) until heated through. Ribs can also be frozen for up to 3 months; thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
Cooking Mistakes
- Not removing the membrane from the ribs can lead to tough texture.
- Overcooking can dry out the meat; monitor cooking time closely.
- Using too much salt can overpower the flavors.
- Not letting the ribs rest before serving can affect moisture.
- Skipping the grilling step may miss the caramelized finish.
Helpful Tips
- For extra flavor, marinate the ribs overnight in the spice rub.
- Experiment with different barbecue sauces for variety.
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure perfect doneness.
- Let the ribs rest after grilling for juicier results.
FAQs
How do I know when my ribs are done?
Ribs are done when they are tender and the meat pulls away from the bone easily. A meat thermometer reading of 190-203°F (88-95°C) is ideal for optimal tenderness.
Can I cook baby back ribs in a slow cooker?
Yes, baby back ribs can be cooked in a slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours, then finish on the grill for a caramelized glaze.
What type of barbecue sauce works best?
A sweet and tangy barbecue sauce pairs well with baby back ribs. Choose one that complements the spice rub used in the recipe.
Can I use spare ribs instead of baby back ribs?
Yes, spare ribs can be used as a substitute, but they may require a longer cooking time due to their thicker meat.
How do I make ribs spicier?
To add heat, increase the amount of cayenne pepper in the spice rub or opt for a spicy barbecue sauce.
Conclusion
This baby back ribs recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, perfect for any gathering. With its tender meat and flavorful glaze, you’ll impress your guests and create lasting memories around the dinner table. Enjoy the deliciousness and share the joy of great food!
Baby Back Ribs Recipe
Ingredients
- 2 racks of baby back ribs
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
- 1 tablespoon garlic powder
- 1 tablespoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup barbecue sauce
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C).
- Remove the membrane from the back of the ribs.
- Rub the ribs with olive oil.
- Mix brown sugar, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne, salt, and pepper in a bowl.
- Coat the ribs evenly with the spice mixture.
- Wrap the ribs tightly in aluminum foil.
- Place wrapped ribs on a baking sheet in the oven.
- Bake for 2.5 to 3 hours until tender.
- Remove from the oven and carefully unwrap the foil.
- Brush barbecue sauce over the ribs and grill for an additional 10-15 minutes for a caramelized finish.
