BBQ RIBS

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Ingredients:

For the Ribs:

  • 2 racks of baby back ribs (about 4-5 pounds total)
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • Salt and pepper, to taste

For the Dry Rub:

  • 2 tablespoons brown sugar
  • 1 tablespoon paprika
  • 1 tablespoon garlic powder
  • 1 tablespoon onion powder
  • 1 tablespoon chili powder
  • 1 teaspoon cumin
  • 1 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
  • 1 teaspoon salt

For the BBQ Sauce:

  • 1 cup ketchup
  • 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
  • 1/4 cup brown sugar
  • 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions:

Step 1: Prepare the Ribs

  1. Preheat your oven to 150°C (300°F) if you’re baking the ribs.
  2. Remove the membrane from the back of the ribs. This will help the seasoning penetrate the meat.
  3. Rub the ribs with olive oil and season generously with salt and pepper.

Step 2: Make the Dry Rub

  1. In a small bowl, mix together the ingredients for the dry rub: brown sugar, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, chili powder, cumin, black pepper, cayenne pepper, and salt.
  2. Rub the mixture all over the ribs, ensuring an even coating.

Step 3: Bake the Ribs (or Grill)

  • Oven Method:
    1. Place the ribs on a baking sheet lined with foil. Cover them tightly with another piece of foil to keep them moist.
    2. Bake in the preheated oven for 2.5 to 3 hours, until the meat is tender and pulls away from the bone.
  • Grilling Method:
    1. Preheat your grill to medium-low heat.
    2. Place the ribs bone side down on the grill. Cook for about 2-2.5 hours, turning occasionally, until they are tender.

Step 4: Prepare the BBQ Sauce

  1. In a saucepan over medium heat, combine ketchup, apple cider vinegar, brown sugar, Worcestershire sauce, Dijon mustard, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
  2. Simmer for about 15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens slightly.

Step 5: Glaze the Ribs

  1. Once the ribs are cooked, remove them from the oven or grill and brush with the BBQ sauce.
  2. If using the oven, you can broil the ribs for 5-7 minutes to caramelize the sauce. If grilling, place the ribs back on the grill for 5-10 minutes, brushing with more sauce as they cook.

Step 6: Serve

  1. Remove the ribs from the heat and let them rest for a few minutes.
  2. Cut into portions and serve with additional BBQ sauce on the side.

Tips:

  • For added flavor, marinate the ribs in the dry rub overnight.
  • Pair your ribs with classic sides like coleslaw, cornbread, or baked beans.

Variations:

  • Sweet and Spicy: Add more cayenne pepper to the rub and a splash of hot sauce to the BBQ sauce.
  • Smoky Flavor: Incorporate smoked paprika in both the rub and the sauce for extra smokiness.