Main Dishes Recipes
Recipe:

BBQ Ribs

By Toni Oliver - 03/12/2025

These BBQ ribs are slow-cooked to perfection, coated in a rich, smoky barbecue sauce. Whether grilled or oven-baked, they turn out tender, juicy, and packed with flavor. A great dish for summer cookouts or cozy family dinners.

Preparation and Yield

Cook time: 1h 30 min Prep time: 15 min Total time: 1h 45 min 4 servings

Nutrition:

500 calories per serving 25 grams of fat per serving

Ingredients:

1 rack of pork ribs (about 1.5 kg) 2 tbsp olive oil 1 tbsp salt 1 tbsp black pepper 1 tbsp smoked paprika 1 tsp garlic powder 1 tsp onion powder 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper 1 cup BBQ sauce 2 tbsp honey 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar

Instructions:

Preheat the oven to 150°C (300°F). Pat the ribs dry with paper towels and remove the membrane from the back. Rub olive oil over the ribs, then season with salt, black pepper, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and cayenne pepper. Wrap the ribs in aluminum foil and place them on a baking tray.
Bake the ribs for 1 hour and 30 minutes until tender. While they bake, mix the BBQ sauce, honey, and apple cider vinegar in a bowl. Once the ribs are done, remove them from the oven and discard the foil.
Brush the ribs generously with the BBQ sauce mixture. Increase the oven temperature to 220°C (425°F) and bake for another 10-15 minutes until the sauce caramelizes. Alternatively, grill the ribs over medium-high heat for 5 minutes per side for a smoky finish.
Let the ribs rest for 5 minutes before slicing. Serve with extra BBQ sauce and enjoy!

The Art of Perfect BBQ Ribs

Achieving the perfect BBQ ribs requires patience and technique. The secret lies in the seasoning and slow cooking process. A good dry rub, combining spices like paprika, garlic, and black pepper, enhances the meat’s flavor while ensuring a smoky depth. Wrapping the ribs in foil during baking locks in moisture, keeping them tender. Whether using a smoker or an oven, the key is low and slow cooking, allowing the flavors to infuse deeply into the meat.

The Importance of Resting and Caramelization

Once cooked, letting the ribs rest is crucial to preserve juiciness. After removing them from heat, allow a few minutes before cutting, so the juices redistribute evenly. For the final touch, a thick layer of BBQ sauce should be brushed on and caramelized at high heat. This step adds a glossy, sticky texture with a balance of sweet and smoky flavors. Grilling over direct heat for a few minutes enhances the smoky aroma, making every bite even more irresistible.

Pairing BBQ Ribs with Sides and Drinks

BBQ ribs shine even brighter when paired with complementary sides and drinks. Classic options include cornbread, coleslaw, and baked beans, offering a mix of crunch, sweetness, and heartiness. For a fresh balance, a crisp green salad with vinaigrette works perfectly. When it comes to drinks, a full-bodied red wine like Zinfandel or a smoky bourbon-based cocktail complements the deep flavors of the ribs, making for a memorable dining experience.

FAQs about BBQ Ribs

1 How do I make my BBQ ribs more tender?

The key to tender ribs is slow cooking at a low temperature. Wrapping them in foil while baking helps retain moisture. Additionally, removing the membrane from the back of the ribs before seasoning allows better absorption of flavors and a more tender texture.

2 Can I cook BBQ ribs in advance?

Yes! You can bake the ribs a day ahead, then store them in the fridge. When ready to serve, reheat them on the grill or in the oven at 180°C (350°F) for 10-15 minutes while brushing with fresh BBQ sauce for a just-cooked taste.

3 What type of wood is best for smoking BBQ ribs?

For the best smoky flavor, use fruit woods like apple or cherry for a mild sweetness. Hickory provides a stronger, classic BBQ taste, while mesquite adds a bold, earthy smokiness. Mixing different woods can create a more balanced, complex flavor.

4 How do I prevent my BBQ ribs from drying out?

Keeping the ribs wrapped in foil for most of the cooking time helps lock in moisture. Basting with BBQ sauce towards the end of cooking and letting the ribs rest before slicing also ensures juicy, flavorful meat.

5 Should I boil ribs before grilling?

Boiling ribs can remove some flavor, so it's not recommended. Instead, slow bake them in the oven first to tenderize, then finish on the grill to develop a crispy, caramelized crust with deep BBQ flavor.