Description of this recipe
These Oven Pork Ribs with Barbecue Sauce are fall-off-the-bone tender, smothered in a rich, homemade barbecue sauce that’s both sweet and tangy. This recipe transforms simple pork ribs into a gourmet experience right in your own kitchen, perfect for family dinners or weekend gatherings. The ribs are first seasoned with a flavorful dry rub, then slow-baked to achieve maximum tenderness, and finally glazed with a luscious barbecue sauce that caramelizes to perfection in the oven.
Why you will love this recipe
You’ll adore this recipe for several compelling reasons. First and foremost, the ribs are incredibly tender, practically melting in your mouth with each bite. The combination of the dry rub and the slow baking process ensures that the meat is infused with flavor from the inside out.
The homemade barbecue sauce is a game-changer. Unlike store-bought versions, this sauce is crafted with a careful balance of sweet, smoky, and tangy notes, offering a depth of flavor that perfectly complements the pork ribs. Moreover, the recipe is surprisingly straightforward, making it accessible for cooks of all skill levels. With clear, step-by-step instructions, you’ll confidently create a restaurant-quality dish that will impress your family and friends.
Finally, this recipe offers versatility. Whether you’re hosting a casual barbecue or preparing a cozy family dinner, these ribs are a crowd-pleaser. Plus, the ability to adjust the spiciness of the rub and sauce means you can tailor the recipe to suit your personal preferences.
Ingredients:
Barbecue Rub for Ribs:
- 2.5 tsp paprika powder
- 2 tsp garlic powder (sub with onion powder)
- 1.5 tsp onion powder (sub with garlic powder)
- 1 tsp cayenne pepper (omit for not spicy)
- 1.5 tsp dried thyme
- 1.5 tsp dried oregano
- 1.5 tsp salt
- 0.5 tsp black pepper
Ribs
- 2 – 2.5kg / 4 – 5lb pork ribs (2 racks)
- 3/4 cup sweet alcoholic apple cider (hard cider), or apple juice
- 1 tbsp olive oil
Homemade Barbecue Sauce
- 1/2 cup apple cider vinegar
- 1 1/2 cups tomato ketchup (or Aussie tomato sauce)
- 1/2 cup water (or use remaining apple cider!)
- 1 1/2 tbsp molasses, original (not blackstrap)
- 1/3 cup brown sugar
- 2 tsp mustard powder
- 1 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 2 tsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp Tabasco or cayenne pepper (optional, for spiciness)
Preparation:
Step 1: Combine all the barbecue rub ingredients in a small bowl. Mix well to ensure all spices are evenly distributed. Generously rub this mixture onto both sides of the pork ribs, focusing on the meaty side. Allow the ribs to marinate for at least 20 minutes, or preferably overnight in the refrigerator for enhanced flavor.
Step 2: Preheat your oven to 160°C/320°F. Ensure that your oven rack is positioned in the center to promote even cooking.
Step 3: Place the marinated ribs on a baking tray in a single layer. Pour the apple cider or apple juice underneath the ribs to provide moisture and enhance flavor. Cover the tray tightly with aluminum foil to trap steam and keep the ribs tender during baking.
Step 4: Bake the ribs in the preheated oven for 1 hour and 30 minutes, or until the meat is very tender. To check for tenderness, insert a fork into the meat; it should slide in easily with minimal resistance.
Step 5: Remove the ribs from the oven and increase the oven temperature to 180°C/350°F. Take off the foil, drizzle the ribs with olive oil to encourage browning and crispiness, and return them to the oven for an additional 15 minutes, or until the dry rub develops a nice, crusty texture.
Step 6: Line a new baking tray with foil, then top with baking or parchment paper. This step prevents the barbecue sauce from sticking to the tray and makes cleanup easier.
Step 7: Transfer the ribs to the lined tray. Pour any juices remaining in the original tray over the ribs to keep them moist and flavorful.
Step 8: Flip the ribs so that the bonier side is facing up. Generously slather the meaty side with the homemade barbecue sauce, ensuring every inch is covered.
Step 9: Bake the ribs for 10 minutes, allowing the sauce to caramelize slightly.
Step 10: Remove the ribs from the oven and flip them over, so the meaty side is now facing up. Apply another generous layer of barbecue sauce. Bake for an additional 5 minutes. Repeat this process two or three more times, slathering the ribs with sauce and baking for short intervals, until a thick, glossy glaze forms on the ribs.
Step 11: Remove the ribs from the oven and let them rest for a few minutes. Cut the ribs into individual or multiple-rib portions. Serve immediately with any remaining barbecue sauce.
For the Barbecue Sauce:
Step 1: Combine all the barbecue sauce ingredients in a medium-sized saucepan.
Step 2: Place the saucepan over medium heat and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
Step 3: Continue to simmer the sauce for approximately 45 minutes, or until it has thickened to your desired consistency. Stir more frequently as the sauce thickens to prevent burning.
Step 4: Taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning as needed. Add more brown sugar or honey for sweetness, vinegar for tanginess, or salt to enhance the overall flavor.
Step 5: Use the barbecue sauce for glazing the ribs and serve as a dipping sauce alongside the cooked ribs.
COOKING Rating:
- Ease of Preparation: Medium
- Flavor Complexity: High
- Overall Enjoyment: High
Serving Suggestions:
These Oven Pork Ribs with Barbecue Sauce are incredibly versatile and pair well with a variety of side dishes.
- Classic Sides: Serve with coleslaw, potato salad, and cornbread for a traditional barbecue feast.
- Fresh Options: A crisp green salad with a vinaigrette dressing or grilled corn on the cob can provide a refreshing contrast to the richness of the ribs.
- Comfort Food: Creamy macaroni and cheese or baked beans make for comforting and satisfying accompaniments.
- Vegetable Medley: Roasted vegetables, such as bell peppers, onions, and zucchini, add a healthy and colorful element to the meal.
- Potato Wedges: Crispy baked or fried potato wedges seasoned with herbs and spices are always a hit.
Tips:
- Marinating: For the best flavor, marinate the ribs overnight in the refrigerator.
- Slow Baking: Slow baking at a low temperature is key to achieving tender, fall-off-the-bone ribs.
- Sauce Consistency: Adjust the cooking time of the barbecue sauce to achieve your desired thickness.
- Customization: Feel free to adjust the spices in the rub and sauce to suit your taste preferences.
- Serving: Serve the ribs immediately after cooking for the best flavor and texture.
Prep Time:
- 20 minutes (plus marinating time)
Cook Time:
- 2 hours
Total Time:
- 2 hours 20 minutes (plus marinating time)
Nutritional Information:
(Note: Nutritional information is approximate and can vary based on specific ingredients and serving sizes.)
Calories:
- Approximately 650-750 per serving
Protein:
- Approximately 40-50g per serving
Sodium:
- Approximately 800-1000mg per serving
Conclusion
Oven Pork Ribs with Barbecue Sauce are a culinary delight that brings the flavors of a summer barbecue into your kitchen any time of the year. The combination of a well-balanced dry rub, slow baking, and a luscious homemade barbecue sauce creates an unforgettable dish that is sure to impress. Whether you’re hosting a casual gathering or simply craving a comforting meal, these ribs are a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. The recipe’s adaptability allows you to customize the flavors to your liking, ensuring that each batch is perfectly tailored to your palate. With simple, step-by-step instructions, this recipe empowers home cooks of all skill levels to achieve restaurant-quality results. The result? Tender, flavorful ribs that will have everyone coming back for seconds.
Q&A
Q1: Can I use a store-bought barbecue sauce instead of making my own?
- A: Yes, you can certainly use a store-bought barbecue sauce if you’re short on time. However, homemade barbecue sauce elevates the flavor of the ribs significantly, allowing for customization of sweetness, spiciness, and tanginess. If using store-bought sauce, opt for a high-quality brand with flavors that complement pork.
Q2: How do I adjust the spiciness of this recipe?
- A: To reduce spiciness, omit the cayenne pepper and Tabasco sauce. For those who prefer a spicier kick, increase the amount of cayenne pepper in both the rub and the sauce. You can also add a pinch of chili flakes for extra heat.
Q3: Can I prepare the ribs in advance?
- A: Absolutely. You can marinate the ribs overnight for enhanced flavor. Additionally, the barbecue sauce can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to a week. On the day of serving, simply bake the ribs as instructed and glaze with the prepared sauce.
Q4: What is the best way to store leftover ribs?
- A: Allow the ribs to cool completely before storing them in an airtight container. Refrigerate the ribs for up to 3-4 days. Reheat in the oven at 300°F until warmed through, or microwave in short intervals to prevent drying out.
Q5: Can I use different types of ribs for this recipe?
- A: While this recipe is specifically designed for pork ribs, you can experiment with other types of ribs, such as baby back ribs or spare ribs. Keep in mind that cooking times may vary depending on the type and thickness of the ribs. Adjust the baking time accordingly, ensuring the meat is tender and cooked through.
