If you’re craving tender, fall-off-the-bone ribs with a mouthwatering barbecue flavor but don’t have access to a grill, fear not! This Oven Barbecue Ribs recipe is here to save the day. With just a few simple ingredients and some patience, you can achieve the same delicious results right in your own kitchen. So fire up your oven, grab your apron, and get ready to impress your family and friends with these irresistible ribs.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Can I use spare ribs instead of baby back ribs? A: Yes, spare ribs can be used as a substitute for baby back ribs in this recipe. Keep in mind that spare ribs may require slightly longer cooking time due to their higher fat content.
Q: Can I make these ribs ahead of time? A: Absolutely! You can prepare the ribs up to 24 hours in advance. Simply follow the recipe up to the point of marinating the ribs, then cover them and refrigerate until ready to bake. Allow the ribs to come to room temperature before baking for best results.
Q: Can I use homemade barbecue sauce instead of store-bought? A: Of course! Feel free to use your favorite homemade barbecue sauce recipe if you prefer. Just make sure it’s well seasoned and has a good balance of sweetness and tanginess to complement the ribs.
Q: How do I store leftover ribs? A: If you have any leftovers (which is unlikely!), allow the ribs to cool completely, then transfer them to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to three days. To reheat, simply place the ribs on a baking sheet and warm them in a preheated oven until heated through.
Ingredients:
For the Ribs:
- 4 pounds (2 kg) baby back pork ribs
- 2 teaspoons garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 2 teaspoons paprika
- 2 teaspoons salt
- 1 teaspoon cracked black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon chili or Cayenne powder (optional)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
For the Sauce:
- 2 cups (500ml) barbecue sauce
- 3 tablespoons minced garlic
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1/2 – 1 tablespoon cayenne pepper (optional for heat)
- 1 teaspoon salt
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Ribs:
- Preheat your oven to 275°F (135°C). Line a large baking sheet with aluminum foil and place a wire rack on top.
- In a small bowl, combine the garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, pepper, cumin, and optional chili or Cayenne powder. Mix well to create a dry rub.
- Remove the membrane from the back of the ribs by sliding a butter knife under the membrane and then pulling it off with a paper towel for better flavor penetration.
- Rub the dry spice mixture all over the ribs, making sure to coat them evenly. Drizzle the olive oil over the ribs and rub it in as well.
2. Bake the Ribs:
- Place the ribs on the prepared baking sheet, bone side down. Cover the ribs tightly with aluminum foil, sealing the edges to trap the steam.
- Bake the ribs in the preheated oven for 2 1/2 to 3 hours, or until tender and cooked through. Remove the foil during the last 30 minutes of cooking to allow the ribs to caramelize and develop a crust.
3. Make the Sauce:
- While the ribs are baking, prepare the barbecue sauce. In a saucepan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute.
- Stir in the barbecue sauce, Worcestershire sauce, cayenne pepper (if using), and salt. Simmer the sauce for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until heated through and slightly thickened.
4. Glaze the Ribs:
- Once the ribs are cooked, remove them from the oven and increase the oven temperature to 425°F (220°C).
- Brush the ribs generously with the prepared barbecue sauce, making sure to coat them evenly.
- Return the ribs to the oven and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the sauce is sticky and caramelized.
5. Serve and Enjoy!
- Remove the ribs from the oven and let them rest for a few minutes before slicing them into individual portions.
- Serve the ribs hot with any remaining barbecue sauce on the side for dipping. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley or green onions, if desired.
Cook’s Notes:
- For extra flavor, you can add a splash of liquid smoke to the barbecue sauce.
- If you prefer, you can marinate the ribs in the dry rub and refrigerate them overnight for maximum flavor.
- To make cleanup easier, you can line your baking sheet with parchment paper instead of aluminum foil.
Variations:
- For a smokier flavor, you can grill the ribs over indirect heat on a barbecue instead of baking them in the oven.
- Feel free to customize the barbecue sauce to suit your taste preferences. Add more or less cayenne pepper for heat, or incorporate other spices like smoked paprika or chipotle powder for a unique twist.
- If you’re short on time, you can use store-bought barbecue sauce instead of making your own.
Keto and Low-Carb Versions:
- To make this recipe keto-friendly, substitute the sugar in the barbecue sauce with a low-carb sweetener like erythritol or stevia.
- Instead of serving the ribs with traditional barbecue sauce, you can make a keto-friendly glaze using ingredients like tomato paste, apple cider vinegar, and low-carb sweetener.
- Serve the ribs with a side of roasted vegetables or a crisp green salad for a complete keto meal.
Indulge in the irresistible flavors of tender, juicy ribs coated in a rich and tangy barbecue sauce with this Oven Barbecue Ribs recipe. Whether you’re hosting a backyard barbecue or simply craving a hearty and satisfying meal, these ribs are sure to hit the spot. With minimal effort and maximum flavor, this recipe is guaranteed to become a staple in your kitchen. So fire up your oven, gather your ingredients, and get ready to enjoy a finger-licking good feast that will leave everyone asking for seconds!
