Baby Back Ribs Recipe: Oven-Baked Goodness
Are you craving tender, fall-off-the-bone baby back ribs? Look no further! This oven-baked recipe delivers juicy, flavorful ribs without the fuss of a smoker. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a weekend BBQ, this recipe is guaranteed to impress.
Ingredients for Mouthwatering Baby Back Ribs
- 3-4 pounds baby back ribs: Choose a rack with good marbling for maximum flavor and tenderness.
- 1 cup your favorite BBQ sauce: Experiment with different flavors! Sweet, smoky, spicy – the choice is yours.
- 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar: This adds a tangy depth to the flavor.
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar: For a touch of sweetness that balances the savory.
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce: Adds umami and richness.
- 1 tablespoon paprika: Smoky flavor enhancer.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder: A must-have for delicious ribs.
- 1 teaspoon onion powder: Complements the garlic powder perfectly.
- 1 teaspoon black pepper: A little spice to round out the flavors.
- 1 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the flavors.
Preparing the Ribs for Oven Baking Perfection
1. The Crucial Prep Work:
Before you even think about seasoning, remove the membrane from the back of the ribs. This tough membrane prevents the ribs from becoming as tender as they should be. Use a butter knife to gently loosen it, then grab a corner and peel it off completely. This is a crucial step for the best results!
2. Seasoning the Ribs:
In a small bowl, combine the brown sugar, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, salt, and Worcestershire sauce. Rub this mixture generously all over the ribs. Make sure every nook and cranny is coated.
3. The Braising Magic:
Place the ribs in a roasting pan. Pour the apple cider vinegar into the bottom of the pan. This creates steam during baking, resulting in incredibly tender ribs.
Baking the Ribs to Juicy Perfection
Preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C). Cover the roasting pan tightly with aluminum foil.
Bake for 2-2.5 hours, or until the ribs are fork-tender. Don't rush this step! The longer they bake, the more tender they will be.
Glazing and Finishing the Ribs
Once the ribs are tender, remove them from the oven. Increase the oven temperature to 375°F (190°C).
Slather the ribs generously with your favorite BBQ sauce. Place them back in the oven, uncovered, for another 15-20 minutes, or until the sauce is caramelized and sticky. This step adds a beautiful shine and delicious flavor.
Serving Your Delicious Creation
Remove the ribs from the oven and let them rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving. Serve with your favorite sides, such as coleslaw, potato salad, or corn on the cob.
Tips for Extra Flavor:
- Add some liquid smoke to the dry rub for an enhanced smoky flavor.
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure the ribs reach an internal temperature of 190-200°F (88-93°C).
- Don't be afraid to experiment with different BBQ sauces and spices to find your perfect combination.
Enjoy your perfectly oven-baked baby back ribs! They're sure to become a family favorite. Remember to share your culinary creations with #ovenbakedribs and tag your friends!
