Indulge in the ultimate culinary delight with our mouthwatering BBQ Baby Back Ribs recipe. Perfectly seasoned with a blend of spices and slow-cooked to tender perfection, these ribs are a true embodiment of comfort food bliss. Whether you’re hosting a backyard barbecue or simply craving a savory feast, this recipe is sure to impress. Join us as we explore the ingredients, step-by-step instructions, cook notes, variations, and even keto and low-carb adaptations to ensure every rib enthusiast can enjoy this delectable dish.
Ingredients:
- 1/2 cup chili ancho powder
- 1/2 cup white sugar
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1/2 cup salt
- 2 teaspoons black pepper
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon dry mustard
- 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- 1 teaspoon crushed dried chipotle pepper
- 1 rack of pork ribs
- 1 cup barbecue sauce
Instructions:
- Prepare the Spice Rub:
- In a bowl, combine chili ancho powder, white sugar, brown sugar, salt, black pepper, cumin, dry mustard, cayenne pepper, and crushed dried chipotle pepper. Mix well to ensure the spices are evenly incorporated.
- Season the Ribs:
- Remove the membrane from the back of the rack of pork ribs, if necessary.
- Rub the spice mixture generously over both sides of the ribs, ensuring they are evenly coated.
- Preheat the Grill:
- Preheat your grill to medium heat, aiming for a temperature of around 300°F (150°C).
- Slow Cook the Ribs:
- Place the seasoned ribs on the grill, bone-side down, and cook them indirectly for 2-3 hours, or until the meat is tender and starts to pull away from the bones.
- Glaze with Barbecue Sauce:
- During the last 30 minutes of cooking, brush the ribs with barbecue sauce, allowing it to caramelize and create a flavorful glaze.
- Rest and Serve:
- Once cooked, remove the ribs from the grill and let them rest for a few minutes before slicing them into individual portions. Serve hot and enjoy the irresistible flavor!
Cook Notes and Variations:
- For a smokier flavor, you can use a smoker instead of a grill. Simply follow the same steps for seasoning and cooking, adjusting the temperature and cooking time as needed.
- Customize the spice rub to suit your taste preferences by adjusting the quantities of spices or adding additional ingredients such as garlic powder, onion powder, or smoked paprika.
Keto and Low-Carb Versions:
Keto Version:
- Substitute the white and brown sugar in the spice rub with keto-friendly sweeteners such as erythritol or monk fruit sweetener.
- Opt for a sugar-free barbecue sauce or make your own keto-friendly version using tomato paste, apple cider vinegar, and a low-carb sweetener.
Low-Carb Version:
- Follow the keto adaptations mentioned above.
- Serve the ribs with a side of grilled vegetables or a crisp salad to keep the meal low in carbohydrates.
In conclusion, our BBQ Baby Back Ribs recipe is a celebration of bold flavors and tender textures that’s sure to elevate any mealtime experience. With its tantalizing blend of spices and succulent pork ribs, this dish is a testament to the timeless allure of barbecue cuisine. Whether enjoyed at a summertime cookout or as a comforting dinner option, these ribs are guaranteed to leave a lasting impression on your taste buds. So fire up the grill, gather your ingredients, and get ready to savor the smoky, savory goodness of BBQ Baby Back Ribs.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
Q: Can I use a different type of ribs for this recipe? A: Yes, you can use spare ribs or St. Louis-style ribs instead of baby back ribs if preferred. Adjust the cooking time accordingly based on the thickness of the ribs.
Q: Can I prepare the ribs in advance? A: While it’s best to cook the ribs fresh for optimal flavor and texture, you can season them with the spice rub in advance and refrigerate them until ready to cook. Just be sure to let them come to room temperature before grilling.
Q: Can I use a different type of barbecue sauce? A: Absolutely! Feel free to use your favorite barbecue sauce or experiment with different flavors to suit your taste preferences. Whether you prefer tangy, sweet, or spicy, there are endless options to explore.
Q: How do I know when the ribs are cooked? A: The ribs are cooked when the meat is tender and starts to pull away from the bones. You can also use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 190°F (88°C) for optimal doneness.
Q: Can I freeze leftover ribs? A: Yes, you can freeze leftover ribs for future enjoyment. Wrap them tightly in aluminum foil or plastic wrap and store them in an airtight container in the freezer for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and warm in the oven or microwave until heated through.
