If you're looking for a crowd-pleaser that just screams comfort food, these Heritage Grilled Ribs are the way to go. Juicy, tender, and with a hint of smoky sweetness, they're perfect for those backyard get-togethers or a cozy family dinner.
Pork ribs form the heart of this dish, offering rich flavor and a satisfying texture when cooked to perfection. The ketchup acts as a tomato base, giving the sauce its body and sweetness. Apple cider vinegar adds a tangy bite, balancing the sweetness of the brown sugar, which caramelizes beautifully, enhancing the ribs' flavor. Worcestershire sauce infuses a savory depth that pairs well with the smoked paprika, which brings a smoky, earthy note. Garlic powder and onion powder are the allium components that add subtle layers of flavor. Salt and black pepper are your basic seasonings to elevate every bite, while a touch of cayenne pepper adds a slight kick. Finally, water helps to simmer and blend all these flavors into a smooth sauce.
These ribs pair perfectly with a classic coleslaw, which adds a refreshing crunch. Consider serving them with baked beans or cornbread to round out the meal. For a lighter side, a simple green salad with vinaigrette works wonders.
First things first, preheat your grill to medium heat. This should be about 350°F, perfect for cooking the ribs slowly without drying them out. While the grill is heating, let's make the sauce. In a saucepan, combine your ketchup, apple cider vinegar, brown sugar, Worcestershire sauce, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, black pepper, cayenne pepper, and water. Give it a good stir and let it simmer over medium heat for about 20 minutes. This will thicken the sauce and marry all those wonderful flavors.
Next, you'll want to prepare the ribs. Begin by removing the membrane from the back of the ribs. This is key to ensuring your ribs are tender. Use a knife to gently lift the edge and then pull it off with your fingers or a paper towel for a better grip. Season the ribs generously with salt and pepper—don't be shy here, seasoning is crucial for flavor.
Now, place the ribs on the grill, bone side down. Let them cook for about 1.5 to 2 hours. Keep an eye on them and turn them occasionally to ensure even cooking. During the last 30 minutes of grilling, start brushing on that sauce we made earlier. Generously slather the ribs every 10 minutes. This will build a sticky, flavorful glaze that’s just irresistible.
Once done, remove the ribs from the grill and let them rest for about 10 minutes. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute, making the ribs even more succulent. After they've rested, slice them up and get ready to serve!
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