Are you craving fall-off-the-bone tender ribs, but want to explore beyond the usual BBQ sauce? This recipe delivers unbelievably juicy and flavorful ribs without relying on any BBQ sauce at all! We're unlocking the natural deliciousness of the meat with a simple yet impactful dry rub and a low-and-slow cooking method. This is a fantastic option for a healthy meal, a quick dinner idea, or simply a delicious dish to impress your friends and family. It's perfect for homemade cooking enthusiasts of all skill levels! Let's get started!
Ingredients:
- 3 lbs pork ribs (baby back or spare ribs)
- 2 tbsp paprika
- 1 tbsp brown sugar
- 1 tbsp garlic powder
- 1 tbsp onion powder
- 1 tbsp chili powder
- 1 tsp cumin
- 1 tsp smoked paprika (optional, but adds great depth)
- 1 tsp cayenne pepper (optional, for extra heat)
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1 cup apple cider vinegar
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
Instructions:
Preparing the Ribs:
- Preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C). If using a rack in your roasting pan, this is the time to set it up.
- Pat the ribs dry with paper towels. This helps the rub adhere better and ensures nice browning.
Making the Dry Rub:
- In a small bowl, combine all the dry rub ingredients: paprika, brown sugar, garlic powder, onion powder, chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika (if using), cayenne pepper (if using), salt, and black pepper. Mix thoroughly.
Applying the Rub and Cooking:
- Generously rub the spice mixture all over the ribs, ensuring every surface is evenly coated.
- Place the ribs in your roasting pan, bone side down, or on the rack if using one.
- Pour the apple cider vinegar and chicken broth into the bottom of the pan. This helps keep the ribs moist during cooking and adds a subtle tanginess.
- Cover the roasting pan tightly with foil.
- Bake for 3 hours.
Finishing the Ribs:
- After 3 hours, remove the foil and increase the oven temperature to 350°F (175°C).
- Continue baking for another 30-45 minutes, or until the ribs are tender and the meat is pulling away from the bone. You might need to baste the ribs with some of the pan juices during this time to keep them moist.
- Remove from the oven and let the ribs rest for 10-15 minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in even more tender meat.
Tips for the Best Ribs:
- Don't overcrowd the pan: Ensure there's enough space between the ribs for even cooking.
- Use a meat thermometer: For perfectly cooked ribs, check the internal temperature. They're done when the meat reaches an internal temperature of 190-200°F (88-93°C).
- Adjust the spice level: Feel free to adjust the amount of cayenne pepper to your preferred level of heat.
Variations:
- Honey-Garlic Ribs: Add 2 tablespoons of honey to the dry rub for a sweeter flavor.
- Spicy Ribs: Increase the cayenne pepper or add a pinch of chipotle powder for extra heat.
- Citrus Ribs: Add the zest and juice of one orange or lime to the pan juices for a refreshing twist.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This will vary depending on the size of your ribs and the specific ingredients used. However, a general estimate per serving (assuming 3 servings) would be:
- Calories: Approximately 400-500
- Protein: Approximately 35-45g
- Fat: Approximately 20-30g
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 10-15g
This easy ribs recipe is a delightful addition to your repertoire of easy recipes and healthy meals. Enjoy the delicious and tender results – a testament to the power of simple, flavorful cooking!