The Best Bake BBQ Rib Recipe
Welcome to the realm of irresistible BBQ ribs that will leave your taste buds in awe. With this recipe, we’ll guide you through the steps of creating succulent ribs that boast a delectable dry rub and a finger-licking glaze of BBQ sauce. It’s the ultimate combination of flavors and textures that will have your guests begging for more. Whether you’re a grill master or an oven enthusiast, we’ve got you covered. Get ready to embark on a journey to BBQ bliss, where tender meat and bold flavors reign supreme. So, roll up your sleeves, fire up the grill, or preheat your oven, because it’s time to indulge in the magic of these BBQ ribs.
The Best Bake BBQ Ribs
Ingredients
- 2 racks of ribs about 4 pounds total
Dry Rub
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1/4 cup paprika
- 2 tablespoons kosher salt
- 2 tablespoons black pepper
- 1 tablespoon garlic powder
- 1 tablespoon onion powder
- 1 tablespoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper adjust according to heat preference
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon mustard powder
- For the BBQ sauce:
BBQ Sauce
- 2 cups ketchup
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1/2 cup apple cider vinegar
- 1/4 cup honey
- 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper adjust according to your spice preference
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Instructions
- Remove the membrane from the back of the ribs by loosening it with a butter knife and pulling it off with a paper towel for better tenderness and flavor absorption.
- In a small bowl, mix all the dry rub ingredients together to create a spice mixture.
- Generously apply the dry rub to both sides of the racks, pressing it into the meat to adhere.
- Cover the ribs and place in the refrigerator for at least one hour to marinate the rub into the meat.
- Preheat your oven to 275°F (135°C) or preheat your grill to medium heat, around 275°F to 300°F (135°C to 150°C), and set it up for indirect grilling.
- For Oven: Place the ribs on a baking sheet or a wire rack set over a baking sheet. For Grill: Place the ribs on the cooler side of the grill, away from direct heat.
- For Oven: Cover the ribs with aluminum foil and place them in the preheated oven. For Grill: Close the grill lid.
- Cook the ribs for approximately 2 to 2 1/2 hours until tender. For Oven: The ribs should be baked at 275°F (135°C). For Grill: Maintain a consistent temperature of around 275°F to 300°F (135°C to 150°C). You can add wood chips or chunks for additional smoky flavor if desired.
- While the ribs are cooking, prepare the BBQ sauce. In a medium saucepan, combine all the BBQ sauce ingredients. Stir well to combine and bring the sauce to a simmer over medium heat.
- Reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Remove from heat and set aside.
- After the initial cooking time, remove the ribs from the oven or grill. Increase the oven temperature to 425°F (220°C) or heat the grill to medium-high direct heat.
- For Oven: Brush the ribs with the prepared BBQ sauce, coating both sides. Place the ribs back in the oven, uncovered, for about 10-15 minutes until the sauce becomes sticky and caramelized. For Grill: Brush the ribs with the BBQ sauce and place them on the direct heat side of the grill. Cook for an additional 5-10 minutes per side, basting with more BBQ sauce and flipping occasionally, until the sauce becomes sticky and caramelized.
- Once the ribs are cooked to your desired level of caramelization, remove them from the oven or grill and let them rest for a few minutes. Then, cut them into individual servings and serve with additional BBQ sauce on the side.
- Enjoy your delicious BBQ ribs cooked either in the oven or on the grill, with a flavorful dry rub and a sticky BBQ sauce glaze!
Notes
Reference Recipes
Dry Rub https://thebestbake.com/dryrub/ BBQ Sauce https://thebestbake.com/bbq-sauce/Tips and Tricks
Here are some tips and tricks to help you make the BBQ ribs recipe successfully:- Choose High-Quality Ribs: Look for high-quality baby back ribs or St. Louis-style ribs that are fresh and well-marbled. Quality ribs will result in a more flavorful and tender end result.
- Remove the Membrane: Removing the membrane from the back of the ribs is crucial for better tenderness and flavor absorption. Use a butter knife to loosen one corner, then grab it with a paper towel and peel it off.
- Dry Rub Application: Ensure even coverage of the dry rub by pressing it into the meat. This will create a delicious crust and enhance the flavor. Allow the ribs to sit with the dry rub for at least 30 minutes before cooking to let the flavors penetrate the meat.
- Low and Slow Cooking: Whether you’re using the oven or the grill, the key to tender ribs is low and slow cooking. This allows the collagen in the meat to break down slowly, resulting in tender and juicy ribs. Maintain a consistent temperature throughout the cooking process.
- Use Indirect Heat: When using the grill, set it up for indirect grilling by placing the ribs on the cooler side of the grill. This prevents direct heat from drying out the meat and helps achieve even cooking.
- Basting with BBQ Sauce: Apply the BBQ sauce towards the end of the cooking time to prevent burning. If using the oven, increase the temperature and cook uncovered for a short period to caramelize the sauce. When grilling, move the ribs to direct heat to create a sticky and caramelized glaze.
- Rest Before Serving: Allow the ribs to rest for a few minutes before cutting into them. This helps retain the juices and ensures a more flavorful eating experience.
- Serve with Additional Sauce: Offer extra BBQ sauce on the side for those who prefer more saucy ribs. This allows everyone to customize the amount of sauce to their liking.
- Pair with Sides: BBQ ribs pair well with a variety of sides such as coleslaw, cornbread, baked beans, grilled vegetables, or potato salad. Consider incorporating fresh and light sides to balance out the richness of the ribs.
- Experiment with Flavors: Feel free to customize the dry rub and BBQ sauce to suit your taste preferences. Add different herbs, spices, or a touch of sweetness or heat to create your signature flavor profile.
Storing Recommendations
Here are some storing tips for the BBQ ribs recipe:- Refrigerating Leftover Ribs: If you have leftover cooked ribs, allow them to cool down to room temperature before storing. Wrap the ribs tightly in aluminum foil or place them in an airtight container. Refrigerate within 2 hours of cooking. Properly stored, the ribs can be refrigerated for up to 3-4 days.
- Freezing: If you want to store the ribs for a longer period, you can freeze them. After the ribs have cooled down, wrap them tightly in aluminum foil or place them in a freezer-safe bag or airtight container. Make sure to remove as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn. Frozen ribs can be stored for up to 2-3 months.
- Reheating: To reheat refrigerated or frozen ribs, preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C). Place the ribs on a baking sheet and cover them with aluminum foil. Reheat in the oven for about 15-20 minutes or until warmed through. Alternatively, you can reheat individual portions on a microwave-safe plate, covered with a damp paper towel, for a shorter time.
- BBQ Sauce Storage: If you have leftover BBQ sauce, transfer it to a jar or airtight container. Refrigerate the sauce and use it within 1-2 weeks. Alternatively, you can freeze the sauce in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw it in the refrigerator before using.
- Portion Control: If you want to portion out the ribs before storing, you can separate them into individual servings. This way, you can easily reheat only the amount you need without having to thaw and reheat the entire batch.
- Labeling: Always label your stored ribs and sauces with the date before placing them in the refrigerator or freezer. This will help you keep track of their freshness and avoid any wastage.
Creation Time
The estimated time breakdown for this recipe is as follows: Prep Time: Approximately 15-20 minutes- Removing the membrane, preparing the dry rub, and applying it to the ribs.
- This includes the initial cooking time for the ribs and the final grilling or oven baking time with the BBQ sauce.
History:
The history of BBQ ribs is deeply rooted in the tradition of barbecuing, which has a long and rich history in various cultures. While it’s challenging to trace the exact origin of BBQ ribs, we can explore the evolution of barbecuing and how ribs became a beloved staple.
Barbecuing itself has ancient origins, with evidence of cooking meat over an open fire dating back thousands of years. Native American tribes, such as the Taino people in the Caribbean and the Indigenous peoples of North America, practiced methods of cooking meat on wooden frames or racks over fire pits.
The tradition of barbecuing was brought to the Americas by European colonizers. In the Southern United States, particularly in states like Texas, Tennessee, and the Carolinas, barbecue culture flourished. These regions developed their own unique styles and techniques, each with their own distinct flavors and methods of cooking.
Pork ribs, in particular, gained popularity due to the abundance of hogs in the Southern states. Slaves and African Americans played a significant role in the development and evolution of Southern barbecue, contributing their culinary knowledge and techniques to the art of smoking and grilling meats.
Over time, regional styles of BBQ ribs emerged. For example, Memphis-style ribs are typically slow-cooked in a pit and served either “dry” with a flavorful dry rub or “wet” with a tangy tomato-based BBQ sauce. In Kansas City, ribs are known for their thick, sweet, and sticky tomato-based sauce. Texas-style ribs often feature a simple dry rub and are cooked “low and slow” with a focus on the natural flavors of the meat.
In recent years, BBQ ribs have become a beloved dish worldwide, with various adaptations and interpretations found in different cuisines. From backyard cookouts to professional BBQ competitions, ribs remain a popular and iconic dish that brings people together to enjoy the smoky, tender, and flavorful experience of barbecued meat.
While the exact history of BBQ ribs may be difficult to trace, their journey through time and the cultural influences they have absorbed have made them an integral part of barbecue traditions around the world.
Pairing Recommendations:
- Coleslaw: A classic side dish that provides a refreshing and crunchy contrast to the rich and smoky ribs. The creamy dressing of the coleslaw helps balance the flavors and adds a cool element to the meal.
- Cornbread: Sweet and buttery cornbread is an excellent accompaniment to BBQ ribs. Its slightly crumbly texture and cornmeal flavor complement the savory and smoky profile of the ribs.
- Baked Beans: The sweetness and smokiness of baked beans harmonize well with BBQ ribs. The combination of tender beans, savory sauce, and a touch of sweetness adds depth and richness to the meal.
- Grilled Vegetables: Grilled vegetables such as corn on the cob, zucchini, bell peppers, or asparagus make for a delightful side dish. The charred and smoky flavors of the grilled vegetables complement the BBQ ribs and provide a lighter, nutritious element to the meal.
- Potato Salad: Creamy and tangy potato salad is a classic BBQ side dish that pairs well with ribs. The creamy potatoes and tangy dressing offer a refreshing contrast to the richness of the meat.
- Macaroni and Cheese: Indulge in the comforting combination of creamy macaroni and cheese alongside your BBQ ribs. The cheesy and gooey pasta adds a comforting element to the meal.
- Watermelon Salad: A light and refreshing watermelon salad with feta cheese, mint, and a tangy dressing can provide a burst of freshness to complement the smoky flavors of the ribs.
- Tangy Pickles: Tangy pickles, whether dill or bread-and-butter style, provide a palate-cleansing contrast to the rich and flavorful BBQ ribs. The acidity and crunch of the pickles help cut through the richness of the meat.
- Corn on the Cob: Grilled or boiled corn on the cob adds a summery touch to the meal. Slather it with butter, sprinkle some salt, and enjoy the juicy and sweet kernels alongside your ribs.
- Refreshing Beverages: Pair your BBQ ribs with refreshing beverages like iced tea, lemonade, or a cold beer. These beverages help quench your thirst and provide a complementary flavor profile to the smoky and savory ribs.
Remember, these are just suggestions, and you can mix and match according to your preferences. The goal is to create a balanced and enjoyable dining experience with complementary flavors and textures.
Variations:
Here are some variations of the BBQ ribs recipe to add a twist to your cooking:
- Spicy Cajun Ribs: Add a kick of heat by incorporating Cajun seasoning into your dry rub. Mix together paprika, cayenne pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, oregano, thyme, salt, and black pepper. Apply the spicy rub to the ribs and follow the cooking instructions as usual.
- Asian-Inspired Sticky Ribs: Infuse an Asian flair into your ribs by replacing the traditional BBQ sauce with a sticky glaze made from soy sauce, hoisin sauce, honey, ginger, garlic, and a touch of chili paste. Baste the ribs with the glaze during the final stages of cooking for a delicious Asian twist.
- Smoky Chipotle Ribs: Give your ribs a smoky and slightly spicy twist by incorporating chipotle peppers into the BBQ sauce. Blend chipotle peppers in adobo sauce with ketchup, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, Worcestershire sauce, and spices. Use this chipotle-infused sauce to baste the ribs during the last part of cooking.
- Honey Mustard Glazed Ribs: Create a tangy and sweet flavor profile by substituting the BBQ sauce with a honey mustard glaze. Combine Dijon mustard, honey, apple cider vinegar, garlic powder, and a pinch of cayenne pepper. Brush the ribs with the honey mustard glaze during the final stages of cooking.
- Fruit-Infused Ribs: Add a fruity twist to your ribs by incorporating fruit flavors into the BBQ sauce. Try mixing peach preserves, orange juice, brown sugar, soy sauce, and a splash of apple cider vinegar. Baste the ribs with this fruity sauce during the last part of cooking.
- Smoked Ribs: If you have access to a smoker, take the flavor to the next level by smoking the ribs instead of using the grill or oven. Follow the same preparation and rub steps, then smoke the ribs at a low and slow temperature for several hours until tender and smoky.
- Maple Bourbon Ribs: Create a rich and decadent glaze by combining maple syrup, bourbon, Dijon mustard, soy sauce, and a pinch of cinnamon. Brush the ribs with the glaze during the final stages of cooking for a deliciously sweet and savory twist.
Remember to adjust the cooking time and temperature accordingly when incorporating these variations, as flavors and ingredients may require slight modifications. Feel free to get creative and experiment with different spice blends, sauces, and flavors to customize the ribs to your liking.
Nutritional Benefits:
While the BBQ ribs recipe can be enjoyed as a delicious indulgence, it also offers some nutritional benefits:
- Protein: Ribs are a good source of protein, which is essential for building and repairing tissues, supporting immune function, and promoting satiety. The ribs provide a substantial amount of protein in the recipe, helping to meet your daily protein needs.
- Vitamins and Minerals: The spices used in the dry rub, such as paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder, can contribute small amounts of essential vitamins and minerals. These include vitamins A, C, and K, as well as minerals like potassium, calcium, and iron.
- Antioxidants: Some of the spices used in the dry rub, such as paprika and chili powder, contain antioxidants that help fight against harmful free radicals in the body. Antioxidants can help reduce oxidative stress and inflammation.
- Flavorful Ingredients: While not necessarily providing specific nutritional benefits, the use of flavorful ingredients like garlic, onions, and spices can enhance the taste of the ribs. This can encourage enjoyment of the meal and potentially promote mindful eating.
It’s important to note that the nutritional benefits mentioned above can vary depending on the specific ingredients used and the portion sizes consumed. Additionally, it’s advisable to balance this indulgent dish with a variety of other nutritious foods as part of a well-rounded diet.
Nutritional Breakdown:
Here’s an approximate nutritional breakdown for the BBQ ribs recipe (based on the assumption of 4 servings):
Please note that these values are approximate and can vary based on specific ingredients used and portion sizes:
Nutritional Breakdown per Serving:
Calories: Around 700-800 calories (depending on the size of the racks and the amount of BBQ sauce used)
Total Fat: 40-50 grams
- Saturated Fat: 12-16 grams
- Trans Fat: 0 grams
Cholesterol: Around 150-200 milligrams
Sodium: Around 1,500-2,000 milligrams
Carbohydrates: 45-55 grams
- Fiber: 2-4 grams
- Sugars: 35-40 grams
Protein: Around 45-55 grams
Please note that these values are estimates and can vary based on the specific brands and quantities of ingredients used. Additionally, the nutritional breakdown may change if you make any modifications to the recipe or use different BBQ sauces or dry rubs. It’s always a good idea to check the labels of the specific products you use to calculate accurate nutritional information.
Fun Facts:
- Rib Varieties: BBQ ribs are typically made from pork, but they can also be made with beef, lamb, or even venison. Each type of meat offers its own unique flavor and texture when cooked low and slow.
- Baby Back Ribs: Baby back ribs are a popular choice for BBQ enthusiasts. The term “baby back” refers to the ribs’ smaller size compared to other cuts. They are taken from the top of the ribcage near the backbone and are known for their tenderness and meaty flavor.
- St. Louis-Style Ribs: St. Louis-style ribs are another well-known variety. They are spareribs that have been trimmed, removing the brisket bone and rib tips. This cut results in a rectangular-shaped rib rack that cooks evenly and has a nice meat-to-bone ratio.
- Rib Championships: BBQ rib competitions are held worldwide, where pitmasters showcase their skills in preparing the best ribs. These competitions often have categories for different rib styles, such as Memphis-style, Kansas City-style, or Texas-style, allowing participants to demonstrate their regional BBQ expertise.
- Rib Rubs: Dry rubs are commonly used to season BBQ ribs. These rubs consist of a blend of herbs, spices, and other seasonings that are applied to the meat before cooking. Rubs not only enhance the flavor but also create a crust on the ribs as they cook, adding an extra layer of texture. Click Here to Get The Best Bake Dry Rub Recipe.
- Slow and Low Cooking: The key to tender and flavorful BBQ ribs is low and slow cooking. Ribs are typically cooked at low temperatures, ranging from 225°F to 275°F (107°C to 135°C), for several hours. This slow cooking process breaks down the collagen in the meat, resulting in tender, juicy, and fall-off-the-bone ribs.
- Regional Styles: Different regions in the United States have their own distinct styles of BBQ ribs. For example, Memphis-style ribs are typically cooked with a dry rub and served without sauce, while Kansas City-style ribs are known for their thick and sweet tomato-based sauce.
- BBQ Rib Festivals: Various BBQ rib festivals and events are held worldwide, celebrating the love for ribs. These festivals feature live music, entertainment, and, of course, mouthwatering ribs from local pitmasters and restaurants.
- National BBQ Month: May is National BBQ Month in the United States, a time to celebrate the art of barbecuing and all its delicious offerings, including BBQ ribs. It’s a great opportunity to fire up the grill or smoker and enjoy some finger-licking ribs with family and friends.
- BBQ Rib Eating Contests: Competitive eaters take on the challenge of consuming as many BBQ ribs as possible within a limited time frame in rib-eating contests. These contests showcase impressive feats of eating prowess and highlight the popularity and appeal of BBQ ribs.
Whether you’re a BBQ enthusiast, a fan of competitions, or simply love indulging in BBQ ribs, these fun facts add a flavorful twist to your knowledge of this beloved dish.
“You don’t win friends with salad. You win friends with ribs.”
– Homer Simpson
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Hi…
Wow, these BBQ ribs look absolutely mouth-watering! I can almost taste the smoky flavor just by looking at the pictures. Can’t wait to fire up the grill and try out this recipe for myself. Thanks for sharing!
Have A Great Day Ahead – Melissa
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