Are you craving a mouthwatering, fall-off-the-bone delicious meal that's surprisingly easy to make? Look no further! These pork riblets are the perfect solution for a quick weeknight dinner or a satisfying weekend feast. This recipe delivers tender, juicy riblets with a beautiful smoky sweetness, guaranteed to impress your family and friends. Get ready for a flavor explosion that will make this dish a new family favorite among your quick dinner ideas!
Ingredients:
- 2 lbs pork riblets (baby back or spare ribs work great)
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 tbsp brown sugar
- 2 tbsp paprika
- 1 tbsp garlic powder
- 1 tbsp onion powder
- 1 tbsp chili powder
- 1 tsp smoked paprika (for extra smoky flavor)
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 cup apple cider vinegar
Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Riblets
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Pat the pork riblets dry with paper towels. This helps them crisp up nicely.
Step 2: Make the Rub
In a small bowl, whisk together the brown sugar, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, chili powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. This homemade spice blend is key to the riblets' amazing flavor.
Step 3: Coat the Riblets
In a large bowl, toss the riblets with olive oil, ensuring they're evenly coated. Then, generously sprinkle the spice rub over the riblets, making sure all sides are well coated.
Step 4: Bake the Riblets
Place the riblets in a baking dish. Pour the apple cider vinegar into the bottom of the dish. This adds moisture and tangy flavor. Bake uncovered for 1 hour and 15 minutes, or until the meat is tender and easily pulls away from the bone. For extra crispy riblets, broil for the last 5 minutes, watching closely to avoid burning.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy!
Once cooked, let the riblets rest for a few minutes before serving. These are fantastic on their own, but you can also serve them with your favorite sides, such as coleslaw, baked beans, or potato salad for a complete and delicious meal.
Tips and Variations:
- For extra smoky flavor: Use a smoker or add liquid smoke to the apple cider vinegar.
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of your favorite hot sauce to the rub for some heat.
- Sweet and Savory: Try adding a tablespoon of honey or maple syrup to the rub for a sweeter flavor profile.
- Slow Cooker Option: For a hands-off approach, place the seasoned riblets in a slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours, or on high for 3-4 hours. Add the apple cider vinegar during the last hour of cooking.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 350-400
- Protein: Approximately 30-35g
- Fat: Approximately 20-25g
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 10-15g
This recipe for pork riblets provides a satisfying and delicious meal, perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions. The ease of preparation combined with the rich flavor makes this a true winner among healthy meals and easy recipes. The versatility allows for adjustments to suit individual preferences, ensuring a personalized culinary experience every time. Remember to adjust cooking times depending on your oven and the size of your riblets. Enjoy your homemade cooking creation!