If you're looking for a way to enjoy ribs without firing up the grill, these Zesty Oven Baked Ribs are your answer. They're tender, flavorful, and bring a bit of tangy zest to your dinner table.
Baby back ribs are the star of the show, offering tender meat that easily absorbs flavors. For the sauce, ketchup forms the base, providing sweetness and tang. Apple cider vinegar adds a bright acidity, while brown sugar and honey bring sweetness and help caramelize the glaze. Worcestershire sauce adds umami depth, and garlic powder and onion powder enhance savory notes. Smoked paprika provides a smoky kick, and cayenne pepper adds just enough heat. Finally, a pinch of salt and pepper ties everything together.
These ribs pair beautifully with classic sides like coleslaw or potato salad. For a fresher option, serve them with a crisp green salad or grilled vegetables. A side of cornbread can also complement the ribs' sweet and tangy flavors perfectly.
First things first, preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C). This slow and steady heat will ensure your ribs turn out tender. While the oven is warming up, you'll want to remove the membrane from the back of the ribs. This step is crucial for allowing the flavors to really penetrate the meat. To do this, slide a knife under the membrane at one end, and pull it off using your fingers or a paper towel for grip.
Next, it’s time to make our zesty sauce. In a medium bowl, combine the ketchup, apple cider vinegar, brown sugar, honey, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, and a sprinkle of salt and pepper. Stir it all together until the sugar dissolves and everything is well mixed.
Place the ribs on a large foil-lined baking sheet, which makes cleanup a breeze later. Now, slather that delicious sauce generously over both sides of the ribs. You want them fully coated to maximize flavor. Cover the ribs with another layer of foil to create a steamy environment for them to cook in, keeping them moist.
Pop the ribs in the oven and let them bake for about 2 1/2 hours. This is when you can relax or prepare any side dishes you want to serve. Once the time is up, remove the foil, turn up the oven to 350°F (175°C), and brush more of that tasty sauce over the ribs. Bake them uncovered for an additional 30 minutes. This step helps the sauce thicken and caramelize into a sticky, flavorful glaze.
Finally, let the ribs rest for about 10 minutes before slicing them up. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute, making sure every bite is as succulent as possible.
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