If you're craving ribs that are fall-off-the-bone tender with a perfectly balanced, savory flavor, then these Savory Heritage Ribs are your ticket to barbecue heaven. This recipe brings together the warmth of family traditions and the excitement of bold flavors, perfect for any gathering or simply a satisfying weeknight dinner.
The backbone of this recipe is undoubtedly the pork ribs, bringing that rich, meaty base we all love. The brown sugar adds a gentle sweetness that caramelizes beautifully during cooking. Paprika provides a smoky edge, while garlic powder and onion powder layer in depth and savory notes. Salt enhances all the flavors, and black pepper adds a touch of heat. The cayenne pepper gives these ribs a subtle kick, perfect for those who appreciate a bit of spice. Apple cider vinegar offers a tangy counterpoint to balance the sweetness, and the BBQ sauce brings everything together with its rich, sticky finish.
These ribs pair wonderfully with classic coleslaw or a light, refreshing cucumber salad. Cornbread or buttery garlic bread make excellent accompaniments, soaking up all those delicious juices. For a truly indulgent meal, consider serving with creamy mashed potatoes or a rich potato salad.
First things first, preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C). This low and slow cooking approach is what will make your ribs tender and succulent. While the oven heats up, mix together your spices: brown sugar, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper. Once the mix is ready, go ahead and rub it generously over the pork ribs. Think of this as giving your ribs a flavorful massage — the more love, the better.
Next, place the spice-rubbed ribs on a baking sheet, and cover them with foil. This is crucial as it traps the steam and keeps the ribs moist while they bake. Pop them in the preheated oven and let them bake for about 2.5 hours. During this time, feel free to relax or prepare your sides; the oven is doing all the hard work.
After the initial baking period, it’s time to add that tangy glaze. Mix apple cider vinegar and BBQ sauce in a small bowl. Remove the foil from the ribs, brush the mixture all over them, and then increase the oven temperature to 400°F (200°C). Place the ribs back in the oven uncovered for another 15-20 minutes. This will help the glaze set and the edges of the ribs to caramelize beautifully.
Once done, let the ribs rest for about 10 minutes before slicing. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring every bite is as juicy as it can be. Now, you're ready to serve and enjoy!
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