Get ready to tantalize your taste buds with these Spicy Maple Glazed Baby Back Ribs. This recipe marries the sweetness of maple syrup with a kick of sriracha, creating a lip-smacking glaze that's perfect for any occasion.
Baby Back Ribs: The star of the show, these ribs are tender and juicy, absorbing all the flavors of the glaze.
Maple Syrup: Provides sweetness and depth, balancing the heat with its rich flavor.
Apple Cider Vinegar: Adds a tangy contrast that helps tenderize the meat.
Soy Sauce: Brings a salty umami punch to the glaze.
Dijon Mustard: Adds a subtle sharpness that enhances the complexity of the glaze.
Sriracha Sauce: Gives the ribs their spicy kick, adjustable to your heat preference.
Garlic: Freshly minced to add aromatic depth to the glaze.
Smoked Paprika: Infuses a smoky flavor that complements the sweetness of the maple.
Ground Cumin: Adds warmth and earthiness to the glaze.
Black Pepper & Salt: Essential seasonings that enhance all the flavors.
Olive Oil: Helps the seasoning adhere to the ribs and adds moisture.
Pair these ribs with a fresh coleslaw or roasted vegetables for a balanced meal. Cornbread or garlic mashed potatoes also make great sides, soaking up the delicious glaze. For a refreshing touch, serve with a chilled cucumber salad.
Start by preheating your oven to 300°F (150°C). This low and slow method ensures super tender ribs. Next, prep your ribs by removing the membrane from the back. This step is crucial as it helps the meat absorb the flavors and become more tender. Use a small knife to lift a corner of the membrane, then grip it with a paper towel and pull it off.
In a mixing bowl, combine the maple syrup, apple cider vinegar, soy sauce, Dijon mustard, sriracha sauce, garlic, smoked paprika, ground cumin, black pepper, and salt. This will be your flavorful glaze. Give it a good stir to ensure everything is well blended.
Brush the ribs with olive oil and season them lightly with salt and pepper. This initial seasoning enhances the meat's natural flavors. Place the ribs on a baking sheet, cover them tightly with foil, and pop them into the oven for 2.5 hours. This will allow the ribs to cook slowly and absorb all those delicious flavors.
Once the time is up, remove the ribs from the oven and increase the temperature to 400°F (200°C). Uncover the ribs and brush them generously with your maple glaze mixture. Return them to the oven, uncovered, for another 20 minutes. This step caramelizes the glaze, making it sticky and full of flavor.
After baking, let the ribs rest for about 5 minutes before slicing. This rest period allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring every bite is as juicy as the last.
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