If you’re craving tender, juicy ribs coated in a sweet and tangy barbecue sauce, this baby back ribs recipe is just what you need. Perfectly cooked, these ribs will have your taste buds dancing and your guests asking for more. Whether it’s a summer cookout or a winter feast, this dish is sure to impress. Let’s dive into the ingredients and cooking process that will make your ribs the star of the show.
Ingredients
– 2 racks of baby back ribs
– 1 cup barbecue sauce
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
– 1 tablespoon garlic powder
– 1 tablespoon onion powder
– 1 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
– Fresh herbs for garnish
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe serves 4 people. Preparation time is 15 minutes, and cooking time is approximately 2 hours.
Nutritional Value
Each serving (approximately 1/2 rack of ribs) contains about 350 calories, 20g protein, 28g fat, 6g carbohydrates, and 1g fiber. This nutritional value is for one person.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
- Preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C).
- Remove the silver skin from the back of the ribs.
- In a bowl, mix brown sugar, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, pepper, and cayenne.
- Rub the spice mixture evenly over the ribs.
- Wrap the ribs tightly in aluminum foil.
- Place the wrapped ribs on a baking sheet.
- Bake in the oven for 2 hours until tender.
- Remove the ribs from the oven and preheat the grill to medium-high.
- Unwrap the ribs and brush with barbecue sauce.
- Grill the ribs for about 5-7 minutes, turning and basting with more sauce until caramelized.
Alternative Ingredients
You can substitute the barbecue sauce with your favorite homemade or store-bought sauce. Additionally, if you prefer a spicier kick, consider adding chili powder or using a spicy barbecue sauce instead.
Serving and Pairings
These delicious baby back ribs pair wonderfully with coleslaw, baked beans, or cornbread. A refreshing cucumber salad or grilled vegetables also complement the rich flavors of the ribs beautifully.
Storage and Reheating
Store leftover ribs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can reheat them in the oven at 250°F (120°C) for 20-30 minutes or on the grill for a few minutes until warmed through. Ribs can be frozen for up to 3 months; just ensure they are wrapped tightly.
Cooking Mistakes
- Don’t skip removing the silver skin; it can make the ribs tough.
- Avoid overcooking in the oven; this can dry out the meat.
- Don’t rush the grilling process; allow the sauce to caramelize properly.
- Be careful with the spice rub if you’re sensitive to heat.
- Make sure to use enough foil to trap moisture during baking.
Helpful Tips
- Use a meat thermometer to check the doneness of the ribs.
- Let the ribs rest for a few minutes after grilling.
- Experiment with different barbecue sauces for unique flavors.
- Consider marinating the ribs overnight for extra flavor.
FAQs
How do I know when the ribs are done?
Ribs are done when they reach an internal temperature of 190°F (88°C) and the meat is tender and pulls away from the bone easily.
Can I cook baby back ribs in a slow cooker?
Yes, baby back ribs can be cooked in a slow cooker. Set on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours for tender, flavorful results.
What kind of barbecue sauce is best for ribs?
The best barbecue sauce depends on personal preference. Sweet, tangy sauces work well, but feel free to experiment with spicy or smoky varieties.
Can I use spare ribs instead of baby back ribs?
Yes, spare ribs can be used, but they will require a longer cooking time due to their larger size.
How should I serve baby back ribs?
Serve baby back ribs with a side of coleslaw, cornbread, or any of your favorite BBQ sides for a complete meal.
Conclusion
Enjoying perfectly cooked baby back ribs is a delight that brings joy to any table. With this recipe, you can impress your family and friends with tender, flavorful ribs that are easy to make. Gather your ingredients, fire up the grill, and savor the deliciousness!
Baby Back Ribs Recipe
Ingredients
- 2 racks of baby back ribs
- 1 cup barbecue sauce
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
- 1 tablespoon garlic powder
- 1 tablespoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper optional
- Fresh herbs for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C).
- Remove the silver skin from the back of the ribs.
- In a bowl, mix brown sugar, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, pepper, and cayenne.
- Rub the spice mixture evenly over the ribs.
- Wrap the ribs tightly in aluminum foil.
- Place the wrapped ribs on a baking sheet.
- Bake in the oven for 2 hours until tender.
- Remove the ribs from the oven and preheat the grill to medium-high.
- Unwrap the ribs and brush with barbecue sauce.
- Grill the ribs for about 5-7 minutes, turning and basting with more sauce until caramelized.
