Get ready to savor the incredible flavors of homemade baby back ribs! This recipe is perfect for any barbecue enthusiast looking to impress family and friends. With a sweet and tangy sauce and tender meat that falls off the bone, these ribs will become a staple at your gatherings. Follow this guide for a foolproof cooking process, and you’ll have everyone raving about your culinary skills!
Ingredients
– 2 racks of baby back ribs
– 1 cup of barbecue sauce
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 1 tablespoon paprika
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1 teaspoon 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 approximately 15 minutes, and cooking time is 2 to 3 hours, depending on your cooking method.
Nutritional Value
This nutritional information is based on a serving size of 1/2 rack of ribs (approximately 200g). Each serving contains about 350 calories, 20g of fat, 30g of protein, 5g of carbohydrates, and 2g of fiber.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
1. Preheat your oven to 275°F (135°C).
2. Remove the membrane from the back of the ribs for tenderness.
3. In a bowl, mix brown sugar, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, salt, and cayenne pepper.
4. Rub the spice mixture generously over both sides of the ribs.
5. Wrap the ribs in aluminum foil tightly.
6. Place the wrapped ribs on a baking sheet and bake for 2 hours.
7. Unwrap the ribs and brush with barbecue sauce.
8. Increase the oven temperature to 350°F (175°C).
9. Bake for an additional 30-45 minutes, basting with sauce every 15 minutes.
10. Remove from the oven and let rest for 10 minutes before serving.
Alternative Ingredients
You can substitute the barbecue sauce with a homemade version or a different flavor, such as teriyaki or honey mustard, based on your personal preference. Additionally, you can use different spices for a unique flavor profile.
Serving and Pairings
Baby back ribs pair wonderfully with classic sides like coleslaw, cornbread, and baked beans. For a refreshing touch, consider serving with a side of pickles or a crisp garden salad.
Storage and Reheating
Store leftover ribs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15 minutes, or until heated through. Ribs can also be frozen for up to 3 months; wrap them tightly in foil before freezing.
Cooking Mistakes
– Avoid cooking ribs at high temperatures; slow cooking yields better results.
– Don’t skip removing the membrane for tenderness.
– Ensure you wrap the ribs tightly in foil to retain moisture.
– Be careful not to overdo the barbecue sauce; a light coat is enough.
– Let the ribs rest before serving to keep them juicy.
Helpful Tips
– Marinate the ribs overnight for enhanced flavor.
– Use a meat thermometer to ensure they reach at least 190°F (88°C) for optimal tenderness.
– Experiment with different spices to create your signature rub.
– Basting with sauce during the final cooking stage adds a delicious glaze.
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 enough to pull away from the bone easily.
Can I cook baby back ribs on a grill?
Absolutely! For grilling, use indirect heat and cook low and slow, basting with sauce towards the end for a nice glaze.
What sides go well with baby back ribs?
Classic sides include coleslaw, cornbread, and potato salad. These complement the rich flavors of the ribs beautifully.
Can I use other types of ribs?
Yes, spare ribs or St. Louis-style ribs can be used, but cooking times may vary due to their size and fat content.
How do I reheat leftover ribs?
To reheat, wrap the ribs in foil and place them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15 minutes until warmed through.
Conclusion
This baby back ribs recipe will elevate your barbecue game and impress your guests. With tender meat, a flavorful rub, and a delicious glaze, these ribs are sure to be a hit at any gathering. Enjoy the process and the delightful results!
Baby Back Ribs Recipe
Ingredients
- 2 racks of baby back ribs
- 1 cup of barbecue sauce
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper optional
- Fresh herbs for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 275°F (135°C).
- Remove the membrane from the back of the ribs.
- Mix brown sugar, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, salt, and cayenne pepper.
- Rub the spice mixture over both sides of the ribs.
- Wrap the ribs in aluminum foil.
- Place the wrapped ribs on a baking sheet and bake for 2 hours.
- Unwrap the ribs and brush with barbecue sauce.
- Increase the oven temperature to 350°F (175°C) and bake for another 30-45 minutes.
- Baste with sauce every 15 minutes.
- Remove from the oven and let rest for 10 minutes before serving.
