Oven Baked Ribs
Indulge in the mouthwatering flavors of oven baked ribs that will leave your taste buds dancing. This recipe showcases tender, juicy meat enveloped in a rich, tangy sauce, making it a perfect choice for family dinners or gatherings. Get ready to impress your guests with a dish that’s both easy to prepare and incredibly satisfying. Let’s dive into the details of creating this irresistible dish!
Ingredients
– 2 racks of baby back ribs
– 1 cup barbecue sauce
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 1 tablespoon paprika
– 1 tablespoon garlic powder
– 1 tablespoon onion powder
– 1 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
– 1 teaspoon mustard powder
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe serves 4-6 people. Preparation time is approximately 15 minutes, with a cooking time of about 2.5 hours.
Nutritional Value
Per serving (assuming 1/4 rack of ribs):
– Calories: 350
– Protein: 25g
– Fat: 20g
– Carbohydrates: 15g
– Fiber: 1g
This nutritional value is based on one serving for one person.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
1. Preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. Remove the membrane from the back of the ribs for better flavor absorption.
3. In a bowl, mix brown sugar, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, salt, cayenne pepper, and mustard powder.
4. Rub the spice mixture evenly over both sides of the ribs.
5. Place the ribs on a baking sheet lined with aluminum foil.
6. Cover the ribs tightly with another layer of aluminum foil.
7. Bake for 2 hours, until the ribs are tender.
8. Remove the ribs from the oven and uncover them.
9. Brush a generous amount of barbecue sauce over the ribs.
10. Increase the oven temperature to 400°F (200°C) and bake for an additional 15 minutes, or until caramelized.
Alternative Ingredients
Feel free to substitute the barbecue sauce with your favorite homemade version or a different flavor. You can also use spare ribs instead of baby back ribs for a heartier option.
Serving and Pairings
Oven baked ribs pair beautifully with coleslaw, cornbread, or roasted vegetables. A side of pickles adds a nice contrast to the rich flavors of the ribs.
Storage and Reheating
Store any 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 15-20 minutes. Ribs can also be frozen for up to 3 months; thaw in the fridge before reheating.
Cooking Mistakes
– Avoid skipping the membrane removal; it can toughen the ribs.
– Don’t rush the cooking time; low and slow is key for tenderness.
– Ensure the ribs are well-covered with foil during the initial bake.
– Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness.
– Be careful not to burn the sauce during the final baking stage.
Helpful Tips
– Marinate ribs overnight for extra flavor.
– Experiment with different spice blends for a unique taste.
– Allow ribs to rest for 10 minutes before cutting for juiciness.
– Use a basting brush for even sauce distribution.
FAQs
How do I know when ribs are done?
Check for tenderness by inserting a toothpick; it should slide in easily. Additionally, the meat should pull away from the bone slightly.
Can I cook ribs at a higher temperature?
While you can, cooking at a lower temperature for a longer time yields more tender ribs. High heat can dry them out.
What type of barbecue sauce is best?
Choose a sauce that complements your flavor preference—sweet, tangy, or spicy. Homemade sauces can enhance the dish even more.
Can I grill the ribs instead?
Yes, you can finish the ribs on a grill after baking for a smoky flavor. Just be cautious to avoid burning.
How should I serve the ribs?
Slice the ribs between the bones and serve with extra barbecue sauce on the side. Accompany with your favorite sides for a complete meal.
Conclusion
Oven baked ribs are a delightful dish that combines rich flavors and tender meat, making them perfect for any occasion. With the right technique and ingredients, you can create a memorable meal that your family and friends will love. Enjoy your culinary adventure with this easy and delicious recipe!
Oven Baked Ribs
Ingredients
- 2 racks of baby back ribs
- 1 cup barbecue sauce
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon paprika
- 1 tablespoon garlic powder
- 1 tablespoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper optional
- 1 teaspoon mustard powder
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C).
- Remove the membrane from the back of the ribs.
- Mix brown sugar, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, salt, cayenne pepper, and mustard powder.
- 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 tightly with another layer of aluminum foil.
- Bake for 2 hours.
- Uncover the ribs and brush with barbecue sauce.
- Increase the oven temperature to 400°F (200°C) and bake for an additional 15 minutes.
- Remove from the oven and let rest for 10 minutes before slicing.
