Indulge in the ultimate comfort food with our baby back ribs recipe. These tender, juicy ribs are coated in a rich barbecue sauce that caramelizes beautifully during the cooking process. Perfect for summer cookouts or cozy family dinners, this dish will have everyone coming back for seconds! Get ready to impress your guests and elevate your grilling game with this easy-to-follow recipe.
Ingredients
– 2 racks of baby back ribs
– 1 cup barbecue sauce
– 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
– 1 tablespoon brown sugar
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1 teaspoon onion powder
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
– Fresh parsley for garnish
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe serves 4 people. Preparation time is approximately 15 minutes, while cooking time is about 2.5 hours.
Nutritional Value
Per serving (1/4 rack of ribs):
– Calories: 350
– Protein: 25g
– Fat: 22g
– Carbohydrates: 10g
– Fiber: 1g
This nutritional information is based on one serving.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
1. Preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. Remove the membrane from the back of the ribs.
3. Rinse the ribs under cold water and pat dry.
4. In a bowl, mix smoked paprika, brown sugar, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper.
5. Rub the spice mixture evenly over both sides of the ribs.
6. Place the ribs on a baking sheet lined with aluminum foil.
7. Cover the ribs with another layer of foil to trap moisture.
8. Bake in the preheated oven for 2 hours.
9. Remove the top foil and brush barbecue sauce generously over the ribs.
10. Increase the oven temperature to 400°F (200°C) and bake for an additional 30 minutes, basting with sauce halfway through.
Alternative Ingredients
You can substitute the barbecue sauce with a homemade version or a different flavor, such as teriyaki or sweet chili sauce. Additionally, you can use different spices based on your preference, like cumin or coriander, to add a unique twist.
Serving and Pairings
These baby back ribs pair wonderfully with coleslaw, cornbread, or grilled vegetables. Consider serving with a refreshing salad or your favorite side dishes to balance the richness of the ribs.
Storage and Reheating
To store, wrap the leftover ribs tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and place them in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For reheating, warm the ribs in an oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes, or until heated through. You can freeze the ribs for up to 3 months; just ensure they are sealed properly.
Cooking Mistakes
– Not removing the membrane can lead to tough ribs.
– Overcooking at high temperatures can dry out the meat.
– Skipping the seasoning can result in bland ribs.
– Not allowing the ribs to rest after cooking can make them tough.
– Using low-quality barbecue sauce may affect flavor.
Helpful Tips
– Marinate the ribs overnight for deeper flavor.
– Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness (145°F/63°C).
– Let the ribs rest for 10 minutes after cooking for juicier meat.
– Experiment with different barbecue sauces for variety.
FAQs
Can I cook baby back ribs on the grill?
Yes, baby back ribs can be cooked on the grill. Use indirect heat and cook low and slow for the best results.
How do I know when my ribs are done?
Ribs are done when the meat is tender and has pulled back from the bones. A meat thermometer should read at least 145°F (63°C).
Can I use other types of ribs for this recipe?
Yes, you can use spare ribs or St. Louis-style ribs. Adjust the cooking time as needed since they may be thicker.
What should I serve with baby back ribs?
Baby back ribs pair well with sides like coleslaw, baked beans, and cornbread.
How long can I store leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 3 months.
Conclusion
This baby back ribs recipe is a guaranteed hit for any gathering. With its tender meat and flavorful seasoning, it’s sure to impress your family and friends. Enjoy the process of cooking and savor every bite of these delightful ribs!
Baby Back Ribs Recipe
Ingredients
- 2 racks of baby back ribs
- 1 cup barbecue sauce
- 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper optional
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C).
- Remove the membrane from the back of the ribs.
- Rinse the ribs under cold water and pat dry.
- In a bowl, mix smoked paprika, brown sugar, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper.
- Rub the spice mixture evenly over both sides of the ribs.
- Place the ribs on a baking sheet lined with aluminum foil.
- Cover the ribs with another layer of foil to trap moisture.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 2 hours.
- Remove the top foil and brush barbecue sauce generously over the ribs.
- Increase the oven temperature to 400°F (200°C) and bake for an additional 30 minutes, basting with sauce halfway through.
