If you're looking for a crave-worthy dish that brings together the perfect balance of sweetness and spice, these Sweet & Spicy Oven Ribs are going to be your new favorite. They're slow-cooked to tender perfection, making them ideal for a cozy family dinner or impressing guests at a weekend barbecue.
Pork ribs are the star of this dish, providing rich flavor and tenderness when cooked slowly. The BBQ sauce forms the base of our marinade, adding a smoky, tangy depth. Honey sweetens the sauce and helps it caramelize in the oven for that irresistible sticky finish. Apple cider vinegar adds a subtle tanginess that cuts through the richness of the ribs. Meanwhile, soy sauce contributes a savory umami note. Smoked paprika gives a hint of smokiness, while garlic powder and onion powder round out the flavor profile. For a bit of heat, we use cayenne pepper, and of course, salt and black pepper to taste.
These ribs are fantastic with a side of creamy coleslaw or cornbread. For a lighter accompaniment, try a fresh green salad. You can also serve them alongside baked beans or roasted vegetables for a hearty meal.
First things first, preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C). This low and slow cooking method ensures the ribs become melt-in-your-mouth tender. While the oven warms up, let's make the marinade. In a bowl, mix together the BBQ sauce, honey, apple cider vinegar, soy sauce, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper. Give it a good stir until everything is well combined.
Now, take your pork ribs and generously rub them with the marinade, making sure every nook and cranny is covered. If you have the time, let the ribs sit and soak up all those flavors for at least 30 minutes. But if you're in a rush, you can proceed without the wait.
Next, wrap the ribs tightly in aluminum foil. This helps trap the moisture and keep the ribs juicy. Place them on a baking sheet to catch any drips and pop them into the oven. Let them bake for about 2.5 hours. This is when your house will start to smell amazing!
After the long bake, carefully remove the ribs from the oven and peel back the foil. Increase the oven temperature to 400°F (200°C) to get ready for the final step. Return the ribs to the oven, uncovered, for an additional 15 minutes. This will caramelize the sauce on top, creating a sticky, flavorful crust.
Once done, take the ribs out and let them rest for about 10 minutes before slicing and serving. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring each bite is as juicy as possible.
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