If you're looking to impress at your next barbecue, these Heritage Baby Back Ribs are just the ticket. With a perfect blend of spices and a tantalizing glaze, they deliver a classic taste with a modern twist.
Baby back ribs are the star of this dish, offering tender and flavorful meat that absorbs the spices beautifully. The kosher salt and black pepper provide a basic seasoning, while garlic powder and onion powder add depth of flavor. The smoked paprika gives a subtle smoky note, and a hint of cayenne pepper adds a touch of heat. Our glaze combines barbecue sauce with apple cider vinegar for tang, brown sugar for sweetness, and olive oil for a rich finish.
Pair these ribs with classic sides like coleslaw or cornbread for a traditional barbecue feast. For a lighter option, a crisp green salad with a tangy vinaigrette balances the rich flavors of the ribs perfectly.
Start by preheating your grill to 275°F. This is a low and slow process, so maintaining a steady temperature is key. While the grill heats up, mix together the kosher salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper in a small bowl. This is your rub, a blend that will give the ribs their delicious crust.
Lay your baby back ribs on a clean surface and pat them dry with a paper towel. Sprinkle the spice mixture over both sides of the ribs, rubbing it in gently to ensure an even coating. Once seasoned, wrap each rack tightly in aluminum foil. This helps to lock in the moisture during cooking.
Place the foil-wrapped ribs on the grill and let them cook for 2.5 hours. Resist the urge to peek; keeping the heat and smoke in is crucial for tender ribs. Meanwhile, combine your barbecue sauce, apple cider vinegar, brown sugar, and olive oil in a saucepan. Heat this mixture on the stove until the sugar is fully dissolved, stirring occasionally.
When the ribs have cooked for 2.5 hours, carefully remove them from the grill and discard the foil. Brush them generously with the barbecue sauce mixture, covering all sides. Return the ribs to the grill and let them cook for another 30 minutes. During this time, baste them occasionally with more sauce until the glaze caramelizes and the ribs are tender.
Once done, remove the ribs from the grill and let them rest for about 10 minutes. This helps the juices redistribute, ensuring every bite is juicy. After resting, slice between the bones and serve.
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