Are you craving tender, juicy ribs that practically melt in your mouth? Then look no further! This easy glaze recipe will transform your ribs into a mouthwatering masterpiece, perfect for a weeknight dinner or a weekend barbecue. Forget complicated techniques and expensive takeout – this homemade recipe is quick, delicious, and surprisingly simple, making it ideal for both beginner cooks and experienced grill masters seeking a new favorite. Get ready to impress your friends and family with these unbelievably flavorful ribs!
Ingredients:
This recipe makes enough glaze for about 3 pounds of ribs. Adjust accordingly if you're cooking a larger batch.
- 1 cup ketchup
- ½ cup brown sugar, packed
- ¼ cup apple cider vinegar
- 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
- 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon ground black pepper
- ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for a little heat)
Instructions:
Get Started:
- In a medium saucepan, combine all ingredients. Stir well to ensure everything is thoroughly mixed.
Simmer the Glaze:
- Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat. Reduce the heat to low, and let it simmer gently for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally. This allows the flavors to meld and the glaze to thicken slightly. You'll notice the glaze starts to coat the back of a spoon.
Glaze those Ribs:
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Preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C) or prepare your grill for indirect heat cooking.
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Place your ribs (already cooked or raw – see variations below) on a baking sheet or grill grates.
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Generously brush the ribs with the glaze.
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Cook for another 30-45 minutes, basting with the glaze every 15 minutes, or until the ribs are tender and the glaze is caramelized and sticky. For grilled ribs, aim for a similar internal temperature and cooking time.
Serve and Enjoy!:
- Remove the ribs from the oven or grill and let them rest for a few minutes before slicing and serving. Enjoy your incredible, fall-off-the-bone ribs!
Cooking Tips for the Best Ribs:
- Don't rush the simmer: Allowing the glaze to simmer properly allows the flavors to develop fully.
- Adjust the sweetness: If you prefer a less sweet glaze, reduce the amount of brown sugar.
- Add some spice: For extra heat, add more cayenne pepper or a dash of your favorite hot sauce.
- Use bone-in ribs: Bone-in ribs are generally more flavorful and tender.
- Pre-cook your ribs (optional): For incredibly tender ribs, consider pre-cooking them in the oven or slow cooker before glazing and finishing on the grill. This is especially helpful when using raw ribs.
Variations:
- Spicy Ribs: Add a teaspoon or two of your favorite hot sauce to the glaze for an extra kick.
- Sweet and Sour Ribs: Increase the apple cider vinegar slightly to enhance the tangy flavor.
- BBQ Ribs: Add a tablespoon of your favorite BBQ sauce to the glaze for a more robust BBQ flavor.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This information is based on a 3-pound rack of ribs, divided into 6 servings, using this glaze recipe. Calorie counts will vary depending on the type of ribs and cooking method.
- Calories: Approximately 350-400
- Fat: Approximately 20-25g
- Protein: Approximately 25-30g
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 20-25g
This delicious glaze recipe elevates simple ribs to a culinary delight, perfect for any occasion. Enjoy the process and the incredible results! Happy cooking!