Oven-Baked Ribs:

Oven-baked ribs are a culinary masterpiece, combining the succulence of slow-cooked, tender meat with the rich flavors of a mouthwatering barbecue glaze. These ribs are a testament to the magic that happens when you combine time, patience, and a few simple ingredients. In this recipe, we’ll guide you through the process of creating your own oven-baked ribs that will have you savoring every juicy, fall-off-the-bone bite.

Ingredients:

For the Ribs:

• 2 racks of baby back ribs (approximately 3-4 pounds each)
• Salt and black pepper, to taste

For the Dry Rub:

• 1/4 cup brown sugar
• 2 tablespoons smoked paprika
• 1 tablespoon garlic powder
• 1 tablespoon onion powder
• 1 tablespoon chili powder
• 1 tablespoon cumin
• 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon black pepper

For the Barbecue Glaze:

• 1 1/2 cups barbecue sauce (homemade or your favorite store-bought brand)
• 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
• 1/4 cup honey
• 1/4 cup brown sugar
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
• Salt and black pepper to taste

Instructions:

Step 1: Prepare the Ribs

1. Start by removing the membrane from the back of the ribs. Use a butter knife or your fingers to gently lift a corner of the membrane, then grab it with a paper towel and pull it off. This step helps the seasonings penetrate the meat and makes for more tender ribs.
2. Rinse the ribs under cold water and pat them dry with paper towels.

Step 2: Season with the Dry Rub

1. In a small bowl, combine all the dry rub ingredients: brown sugar, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, chili powder, cumin, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper.
2. Rub the dry mixture generously all over the ribs, ensuring an even coating on both sides.
3. Place the seasoned ribs on a baking sheet, cover them with plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight to allow the flavors to penetrate the meat. This step is crucial for a flavorful result.

Step 3: Preheat the Oven

1. Preheat your oven to 275°F (135°C).

Step 4: Slow Roast the Ribs

1. Remove the ribs from the refrigerator and let them come to room temperature for about 30 minutes before cooking.
2. Wrap each rack of ribs individually in heavy-duty aluminum foil, creating a tight seal.
3. Place the foil-wrapped ribs on a baking sheet and roast them in the preheated oven for 2.5 to 3 hours, or until the meat is tender and easily pulls away from the bones. This slow cooking process ensures that the ribs are incredibly tender and flavorful.

Step 5: Make the Barbecue Glaze

1. While the ribs are roasting, prepare the barbecue glaze. In a saucepan, combine the barbecue sauce, apple cider vinegar, honey, brown sugar, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper.
2. Simmer the glaze over low heat, stirring occasionally, for about 15-20 minutes, or until it thickens slightly. Remove it from the heat.

Step 6: Finish the Ribs

1. Once the ribs are tender, carefully open the foil packets to expose the meat.
2. Brush the ribs generously with the prepared barbecue glaze, making sure to coat both sides.
3. Return the ribs to the oven and broil them on a high setting for about 3-5 minutes, or until the glaze becomes caramelized and slightly crispy. Keep a close eye on them to prevent burning.

Step 7: Rest and Serve

1. Remove the oven-baked ribs from the broiler and let them rest for a few minutes.
2. Slice the ribs between the bones and serve them with any extra barbecue glaze on the side.

 

Oven-baked ribs are a culinary triumph, offering succulent, fall-off-the-bone meat with a tantalizing barbecue glaze. This recipe showcases the art of slow cooking, resulting in tender and flavorful ribs that will have your taste buds singing. Enjoy the process of creating these mouthwatering ribs and savor every delicious bite.