Ultimate BBQ Ribs Recipe

When it comes to comfort food, few dishes can rival the mouthwatering goodness of BBQ ribs. Whether you're firing up the grill for a summer cookout or cozying up indoors during the colder months, ribs are a fantastic choice that never fails to impress. Tender, juicy, and slathered with your favorite BBQ sauce, this dish is a crowd-pleaser that's perfect for family gatherings, parties, or just a cozy night in. In this article, you'll find a comprehensive guide to making the ultimate BBQ ribs that are sure to leave your taste buds dancing!

Ingredients

• 2 racks of pork baby back ribs (around 4-5 pounds or 1.8-2.3 kg)
• 1 tablespoon (15 g) paprika
• 1 tablespoon (15 g) brown sugar
• 1 tablespoon (15 g) garlic powder
• 1 tablespoon (15 g) onion powder
• 1 teaspoon (5 g) black pepper
• 1 teaspoon (5 g) salt
• 1 teaspoon (5 g) cayenne pepper (optional for heat)
• 1 cup (240 ml) of your favorite BBQ sauce (plus extra for serving)
• 2 tablespoons (30 ml) apple cider vinegar (optional for tang)

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Instructions

1. Preheat Your Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. Prepare the Ribs: Remove the membrane from the back of the ribs. This helps the flavors penetrate and makes for a more tender bite. Use a paper towel to grip and pull it off.
3. Make the Dry Rub: In a small bowl, mix together the paprika, brown sugar, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, salt, and cayenne pepper. This will be your dry rub.
4. Season the Ribs: Generously apply the dry rub all over the ribs, ensuring every crevice is coated. Let them sit for at least 30 minutes to absorb the flavors.
5. Wrap in Foil: Place the seasoned ribs on a large piece of aluminum foil. Drizzle the apple cider vinegar over the ribs (if using), then wrap the foil tightly around them to create a sealed packet.
6. Bake the Ribs: Place the foil-wrapped ribs on a baking sheet and bake in the preheated oven for 2.5 to 3 hours. This slow cooking method will ensure they become tender and flavorful.
7. Prepare the Grill: If you’re finishing your ribs on a grill, preheat it to medium-high heat (around 375°F or 190°C).
8. Glaze with BBQ Sauce: Carefully remove the ribs from the oven and discard the foil. Brush a generous amount of BBQ sauce on both sides of the ribs.
9. Grill the Ribs: Transfer the ribs to the grill and cook for an additional 10-15 minutes, flipping and basting with more BBQ sauce every few minutes. This caramelizes the sauce and adds an incredible flavor.
10. Rest and Serve: Once done, remove the ribs from the grill and let them rest for about 5 minutes. Slice between the bones and serve with extra BBQ sauce on the side.

FAQ

1. Can I use a different type of ribs?

Absolutely! While baby back ribs are popular for their tenderness, you can also use spare ribs or St. Louis-style ribs. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary slightly.

2. What if I don’t have BBQ sauce?

You can make your own BBQ sauce using ketchup, vinegar, brown sugar, Worcestershire sauce, and spices. Alternatively, you can use a dry rub and skip the sauce entirely for a different flavor profile.

3. How should I store leftover ribs?

Store leftover ribs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. You can also freeze them for up to 3 months. To reheat, wrap in foil and warm in the oven or grill until heated through.

4. Can I cook these ribs in a slow cooker?

Yes! You can cook the ribs in a slow cooker on low for 6-8 hours. After cooking, finish them on the grill or under a broiler with BBQ sauce for that caramelized finish.

5. What are some variations I can try?

Feel free to experiment with different spice blends for your dry rub, such as adding smoked paprika for a smoky flavor or brown sugar for sweetness. You can also try different types of BBQ sauce, such as vinegar-based or mustard-based sauces, to match your taste preference.

Enjoy your mouthwatering BBQ ribs, and don’t forget to share them with family and friends. Happy cooking!