Sweet and Smoky Oven-Baked BBQ Ribs are the ultimate comfort food, perfect for any gathering or a cozy meal at home. This recipe brings together the rich flavor of smoked paprika with a hint of sweetness from brown sugar, creating ribs that are fall-off-the-bone tender and irresistibly sticky.
Pork ribs are the star of the show, providing a rich, meaty base that soaks up the flavors beautifully. The brown sugar adds a caramel-like sweetness and helps form a delicious crust. Smoked paprika infuses the ribs with a deep, smoky flavor without needing a smoker. A touch of black pepper and salt enhances all the other spices. Garlic powder and onion powder give a savory depth, while a pinch of cayenne pepper adds just the right amount of heat. The BBQ sauce, with its tangy and sweet profile, is elevated by the addition of apple cider vinegar and honey, creating a perfectly balanced glaze.
Pair these ribs with classic sides like coleslaw, cornbread, or a fresh green salad. For a backyard BBQ vibe, serve with grilled corn on the cob and baked beans. A cold, crisp beer or a refreshing lemonade also complements these ribs beautifully.
Start by preheating your oven to 300°F (150°C). This low and slow cooking method is key to achieving tender ribs. Combine the brown sugar, smoked paprika, black pepper, salt, garlic powder, onion powder, and cayenne pepper in a small bowl to make your spice rub. This rub will be the backbone of flavor for your ribs.
Pat the ribs dry with a paper towel, which helps the rub adhere better. If you notice a thin membrane on the back of the ribs, take a moment to remove it. This can usually be done by sliding a knife under the membrane and pulling it off with your fingers. This step ensures the spices penetrate and the ribs become tender.
Generously coat the ribs with the spice rub on all sides. The more evenly you distribute it, the better the flavor will be. Wrap the ribs tightly in aluminum foil, creating a sealed packet that will trap moisture and heat. Place the foil-wrapped ribs on a baking sheet to catch any drippings, then bake them in the preheated oven for 2.5 to 3 hours. During this time, your kitchen will start to fill with the most mouth-watering aroma.
While the ribs are baking, make your BBQ sauce glaze. In a saucepan, combine the BBQ sauce, apple cider vinegar, and honey. Bring this mixture to a simmer and let it cook for about 5 minutes. This reduces and thickens the sauce slightly, perfect for clinging to the ribs.
Once the ribs are tender, carefully remove them from the oven and unwrap them from the foil. Increase your oven temperature to 375°F (190°C). Brush the ribs generously with the BBQ sauce mixture, ensuring every inch is covered. Return the ribs to the oven, uncovered, for an additional 20 minutes. This step allows the sauce to caramelize, creating a sticky, flavorful crust.
Let the ribs rest for about 10 minutes before slicing. This short rest period allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring every bite is juicy and flavorful.
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