Are you craving a delicious, easy meal that's guaranteed to impress? Look no further than these fall-off-the-bone pork riblets! This recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a weekend barbecue, offering a fantastic balance of sweet and savory flavors. Whether you're a seasoned cook or a kitchen newbie, this recipe will guide you to tender, juicy riblets that are simply irresistible. Get ready to experience the ultimate comfort food!
Ingredients:
- 3 lbs pork riblets, trimmed of excess fat
- 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
- 1/4 cup ketchup
- 1/4 cup Worcestershire sauce
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for extra heat)
Instructions:
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Prepare the Riblets: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Pat the pork riblets dry with paper towels. This helps the sauce adhere better and promotes browning.
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Mix the Sauce: In a medium bowl, whisk together the brown sugar, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, soy sauce, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, and cayenne pepper (if using). Make sure everything is well combined for an even flavor distribution.
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Coat the Riblets: Place the riblets in a large baking dish or roasting pan. Pour the sauce over the riblets, ensuring they are evenly coated. Use your hands or tongs to gently toss the riblets to distribute the sauce properly.
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Bake to Perfection: Bake the riblets for 1 hour and 15 minutes, or until they are tender and the sauce has caramelized. For extra crispy riblets, broil them for the last 2-3 minutes, watching carefully to prevent burning.
Tips for Tender Riblets:
- Don't overcrowd the pan: Ensure there's enough space between the riblets to allow for even cooking and browning. If necessary, use two baking dishes.
- Baste halfway: For extra juicy and flavorful riblets, baste them with the sauce halfway through the baking process.
- Check for doneness: Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches at least 190°F (88°C) for food safety.
Delicious Variations:
- Spicy Riblets: Increase the amount of cayenne pepper or add a dash of your favorite hot sauce for extra heat.
- Sweet and Sour Riblets: Add a tablespoon of honey or maple syrup to the sauce for a sweeter flavor profile.
- BBQ Riblets: Substitute your favorite BBQ sauce for the homemade sauce.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 350-400
- Protein: Approximately 30-35g
- Fat: Approximately 20-25g
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 15-20g
These mouthwatering pork riblets are a simple yet impressive dish, perfect for any occasion. The combination of sweet and savory flavors, along with the tender, fall-off-the-bone texture, will leave you wanting more. Enjoy this easy and healthy meal, a delicious addition to your homemade cooking repertoire! This quick dinner idea is sure to become one of your best recipes.