If you're looking to elevate your grill game, these Citrus Glazed Baby Back Ribs are your ticket to flavor town. With a sweet and tangy glaze that caramelizes beautifully, they're perfect for any backyard BBQ or family gathering.
The star of the show is the orange juice, providing that refreshing citrus zing. Honey adds sweetness and helps the glaze stick. Soy sauce brings depth and umami. Apple cider vinegar offers a bit of tang to balance the sweetness. Brown sugar deepens the sweet notes and helps with caramelization. Worcestershire sauce introduces a hint of savory complexity. Garlic powder and onion powder add aromatic depth, while smoked paprika gives a gentle smoky kick. Finally, black pepper and salt round out the flavors.
These ribs pair beautifully with a crisp coleslaw or a light potato salad. For a refreshing contrast, try serving with a side of grilled peaches or a simple arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette.
Start by preheating your grill to medium heat. While the grill warms up, mix your glaze. Combine the orange juice, honey, soy sauce, apple cider vinegar, brown sugar, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, pepper, and salt in a bowl until well-blended.
Next, pat the ribs dry with paper towels to remove any excess moisture. Brush them lightly with olive oil, which helps prevent sticking and encourages a nice sear.
Place the ribs on the grill bone side down. You'll want to cook them for about an hour, basting with the glaze every 15 minutes. This interval allows the glaze to build up in layers, creating a sticky, flavorful crust.
After an hour, crank up the heat to medium-high. Grill the ribs for another 15 minutes, basting frequently. This final blast of heat will help caramelize the glaze, giving the ribs a beautiful, glossy finish.
Once done, remove the ribs from the grill and let them rest for about 5 minutes. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring every bite is tender and juicy. Slice and serve hot.
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