These tender and tasty baby back ribs are a winner! With a sweet and tangy glaze, they are perfect for any cookout or family dinner.
I simply love how easily they fall off the bone. Just coat them with the sauce, bake, and you’ll feel like a grill master! Get ready for some happy faces at the table! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Baby Back Ribs: These are the stars of the dish. If you can’t find baby back ribs, spare ribs work as a substitute, but they’ll need a bit more cooking time to turn tender.
Brown Sugar: This adds sweetness and helps with caramelization. You can use coconut sugar or regular white sugar if you’re out of brown sugar.
Spices: The mix of paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder gives great flavor. If you want to switch things up, smoked paprika can add a nice smoky touch, while Italian seasoning can offer a unique flair.
Barbecue Sauce: Use your favorite brand, or make your own if you have the time! If you’re avoiding sugar, sugar-free barbecue sauce can work too.
Apple Cider Vinegar: This adds tanginess. You can substitute it with white vinegar or lemon juice if needed.
How Do I Easily Remove the Membrane from the Ribs?
Removing the membrane is key for tender ribs. Here’s a quick guide:
- Start by sliding a butter knife under one end of the membrane to loosen it.
- Grab a paper towel for a better grip and pull the membrane gently towards you.
- Work from one end to the other, taking care not to tear it.
This step helps the rub penetrate better and results in more tender meat!
What’s the Best Way to Ensure My Ribs are Tender?
Cooking ribs low and slow is essential. Here are some tips:
- Keep your grill or oven at a steady 275°F (135°C) for even cooking.
- Don’t rush! Allow at least 2.5 to 3 hours for the ribs to cook.
- Check for doneness by seeing if the meat is pulling away from the bone slightly; that’s your cue to take them off.
Trust me; patience pays off in tender, mouth-watering ribs!
Easy Prize-Winning Baby Back Ribs Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 racks of baby back ribs (about 2 to 3 pounds each)
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon paprika
- 1 tablespoon garlic powder
- 1 tablespoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional for heat)
- 1 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup barbecue sauce (use your favorite or homemade)
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon liquid smoke (optional, for smoky flavor)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes for prep work and 2.5 to 3 hours for cooking. In total, you should plan for around 3 to 3.5 hours to prepare and cook your delicious baby back ribs. That’s all it takes for fall-off-the-bone goodness!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preparing the Ribs:
Start by removing the thin membrane from the back of the ribs. This is important for making the meat tender and allowing the flavors to soak in. Pat the ribs dry with paper towels to get rid of any excess moisture.
2. Making the Dry Rub:
In a medium bowl, mix together the brown sugar, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper (if you want some heat), black pepper, and salt. Blend well until everything is combined.
3. Applying the Rub:
Generously coat both sides of the ribs with the dry rub you created. Make sure to press it into the meat so it sticks well, allowing the flavors to penetrate.
4. Preheating Your Grill or Oven:
If you’re using a grill, set it up for indirect cooking and preheat it to about 275°F (135°C). If baking in the oven, preheat it to the same temperature.
5. Cooking the Ribs:
Place the ribs on the grill, bone-side down, or on a baking sheet in the oven. Cook them slowly for about 2.5 to 3 hours. You’ll know they’re ready when the meat is tender and starts to pull away from the bone.
6. Preparing the Glaze:
In a small bowl, mix together the barbecue sauce, apple cider vinegar, Worcestershire sauce, and liquid smoke (if using) to make a delicious glaze.
7. Glazing and Finishing the Cooking:
For the last 30 minutes of cooking, brush the ribs generously with the glaze every 10 minutes. If you’re grilling, you can quickly finish them over direct heat for a few minutes per side to caramelize, but keep a close eye to avoid burning.
8. Resting and Serving:
Once the ribs are done, take them off the heat and let them rest for about 10 minutes. This helps the juices redistribute. Slice between the bones and serve with extra barbecue sauce on the side!
Enjoy your tender, flavorful, and prize-worthy baby back ribs! 🍖
FAQ About Easy Prize-Winning Baby Back Ribs
Can I Use St. Louis-Style Ribs Instead of Baby Back Ribs?
Absolutely! St. Louis-style ribs can be used in this recipe, but they may require a slightly longer cooking time as they are typically larger and meatier. Just ensure they are cooked until the meat is tender and easily pulls away from the bone.
How Can I Make the Ribs Spicier?
If you love heat, consider adding more cayenne pepper to the dry rub or incorporating some hot sauce into the barbecue glaze. You could also add crushed red pepper flakes for an extra kick!
Is It Possible to Cook These Ribs in a Slow Cooker?
Yes, you can use a slow cooker to make these ribs! Rub the spices on the ribs, place them in the slow cooker, and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. Finish with the glaze under the broiler for a few minutes to caramelize.
How Should I Store Leftover Ribs?
Store leftover ribs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can reheat them in the oven or microwave. To keep them juicy, you might want to cover them with foil while reheating in the oven.
