Are you ready to experience a flavor explosion that will redefine your perception of ribs? Forget everything you think you know about BBQ – we're diving headfirst into the delightful world of Apple Pie Ribs! This recipe combines the smoky richness of tender ribs with the sweet and comforting notes of classic apple pie. It's a surprisingly easy recipe, perfect for a weekend feast or a special occasion dinner, proving that homemade cooking can be both delicious and surprisingly simple. Prepare for a culinary adventure that will leave your taste buds singing!
Ingredients:
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For the Ribs:
- 3 lbs pork ribs (baby back or St. Louis style)
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp paprika
- 1 tbsp garlic powder
- 1 tbsp onion powder
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1 tsp ground nutmeg
- ½ tsp ground cloves
- Salt and black pepper to taste
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For the Apple Pie Glaze:
- 1 cup apple cider
- ½ cup brown sugar
- ¼ cup apple butter
- 2 tbsp butter
- 1 tbsp cornstarch
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- ½ tsp ground cinnamon
Instructions:
Prepare the Ribs:
- Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C). If using a rack in a baking pan, line the bottom of the pan to catch drips.
- Pat the ribs dry with paper towels. This helps the spice rub adhere better.
- In a small bowl, combine the paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, salt, and pepper.
- Rub the spice mixture all over the ribs, ensuring they are evenly coated.
Bake the Ribs:
- Place the ribs in the prepared baking pan.
- Bake for 2 hours, or until the ribs are tender and slightly pulling away from the bone.
Make the Apple Pie Glaze:
- While the ribs are baking, prepare the glaze. In a medium saucepan, combine the apple cider, brown sugar, apple butter, and butter.
- Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the cornstarch and a tablespoon of cold water to form a slurry.
- Gradually add the cornstarch slurry to the simmering mixture, stirring constantly until the glaze thickens.
- Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract and cinnamon.
Glaze and Finish:
- Once the ribs are tender, increase the oven temperature to 375°F (190°C).
- Brush the ribs generously with the apple pie glaze.
- Return the ribs to the oven and bake for another 15-20 minutes, or until the glaze is caramelized and sticky.
- Let the ribs rest for 10 minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in incredibly tender and flavorful ribs.
Tips and Variations:
- For extra smoky flavor, consider smoking the ribs for a few hours before baking. This adds depth and complexity to the dish.
- If you don't have apple butter, you can substitute it with applesauce or even a little extra brown sugar.
- Feel free to experiment with different spices in the rub. A pinch of cayenne pepper could add a delightful kick.
- These ribs are fantastic served with classic sides like mashed potatoes, coleslaw, or cornbread.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 450-500
- Protein: Approximately 35-40g
- Fat: Approximately 25-30g
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 20-25g
This Apple Pie Ribs recipe is a testament to how easy it is to create truly exceptional, healthy meals at home. It’s a delicious dish that showcases the beauty of simple, fresh ingredients transformed into something truly special. Enjoy the sweet and savory symphony!