Baking Ribs in the Oven: A Deliciously Easy Recipe
Want to impress your family and friends with fall-off-the-bone tender ribs, without the fuss of a smoker? This oven-baked ribs recipe is your answer! It delivers juicy, flavorful ribs every time, requiring minimal effort and maximum taste. This recipe focuses on achieving that perfect balance of tender meat and a deliciously sticky, savory glaze. Get ready to experience rib heaven!
Ingredients You'll Need:
- 3-4 lbs Pork Ribs: St. Louis style ribs are ideal, but baby back ribs work just as well. Look for ribs with a good amount of marbling for maximum flavor and tenderness.
- 1 cup BBQ Sauce: Your favorite brand will do, or try making your own! We'll discuss some homemade sauce options later.
- 1/4 cup Apple Cider Vinegar: Adds a tangy depth of flavor and helps break down the connective tissue for extra tenderness.
- 2 tablespoons Worcestershire Sauce: Adds a savory umami kick.
- 1 tablespoon Brown Sugar: Adds sweetness and helps create a sticky glaze.
- 1 tablespoon Garlic Powder: Enhances the savory notes.
- 1 tablespoon Paprika: Adds a smoky warmth.
- 1 teaspoon Onion Powder: A classic flavor enhancer for ribs.
- 1 teaspoon Black Pepper: Adds a bit of spice.
- 1 teaspoon Salt: Enhances the overall flavor.
Preparation: The Key to Perfectly Baked Ribs
Step 1: Preparing the Ribs
- Pat the ribs dry: This helps the seasoning adhere better.
- Trim excess fat: Remove any large chunks of fat, but leave a thin layer for flavor and moisture.
- Season generously: Rub the spice mixture (brown sugar, garlic powder, paprika, onion powder, black pepper, and salt) all over the ribs, ensuring they are evenly coated. Don't be shy with the seasoning!
Step 2: The Baking Process
- Preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C).
- Wrap the ribs: Place the seasoned ribs in a large roasting pan or aluminum foil baking dish. Pour the apple cider vinegar and Worcestershire sauce over the ribs. Tightly wrap the pan with aluminum foil.
- Bake for 2-3 hours: This slow cooking process breaks down the collagen, resulting in melt-in-your-mouth tenderness.
- Unwrap and glaze: Remove the foil and brush the ribs generously with your favorite BBQ sauce.
- Bake uncovered for another 30-45 minutes: This allows the sauce to caramelize and create a beautiful, sticky glaze. Keep a close eye on the ribs to prevent burning.
Tips for Extra Delicious Ribs:
- Use a meat thermometer: For perfectly cooked ribs, aim for an internal temperature of 190-200°F (88-93°C).
- Experiment with different BBQ sauces: Try different flavors to find your personal preference.
- Add some heat: Include a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of your favorite hot sauce for extra spice.
- Rest before serving: Allow the ribs to rest for 10-15 minutes after baking. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in even more tender and flavorful ribs.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ):
Q: Can I use a different type of vinegar?
A: Yes, white wine vinegar or even apple juice could work as a substitute for the apple cider vinegar, but the flavor profile will change slightly.
Q: How do I store leftover ribs?
A: Store leftover ribs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
This oven-baked ribs recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Enjoy the delicious aroma and the satisfying taste of perfectly cooked, fall-off-the-bone ribs! Let us know in the comments how your ribs turned out!
