Are you ready to take your barbecue game to the next level? Forget those bland, store-bought rubs! This St. Louis style rib rub recipe is your secret weapon for creating fall-off-the-bone tender, unbelievably flavorful ribs that will have everyone begging for more. This recipe is perfect for those seeking easy recipes and healthy meals that don't sacrifice deliciousness. Whether you're a seasoned pitmaster or a beginner, this homemade cooking guide will walk you through every step. It's a quick dinner idea that's surprisingly simple to achieve.
Ingredients:
- 1/4 cup brown sugar, packed
- 2 tablespoons paprika (smoked paprika adds extra depth!)
- 2 tablespoons garlic powder
- 2 tablespoons onion powder
- 1 tablespoon black pepper, freshly ground
- 1 tablespoon chili powder
- 1 tablespoon salt
- 1 tablespoon cayenne pepper (optional, for extra heat)
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon ground coriander
Instructions:
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Combine the magic: In a small bowl, whisk together the brown sugar, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, chili powder, salt, cayenne pepper (if using), cumin, and coriander. Make sure all the spices are evenly distributed. This is the heart of your delicious dishes!
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Prepare your ribs: Pat your ribs dry with paper towels. This is crucial for a good bark.
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Generously apply the rub: Liberally apply the spice rub all over your ribs, ensuring that every inch is coated. Press it gently into the meat.
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Let it rest (the magic of time): For best results, let the ribs sit at room temperature for at least 30 minutes, or even better, up to 4 hours, to allow the flavors to fully penetrate. This is a key element for creating the best recipes.
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Cook your ribs: This part depends on your preferred cooking method! You can slow-cook them in the oven, smoke them on a grill, or even use an Instant Pot. Remember to check the internal temperature with a meat thermometer. Ribs are generally done when they reach an internal temperature of 190-200°F (88-93°C).
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Rest and serve: Once cooked, let your ribs rest for about 10-15 minutes before slicing and serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in incredibly tender and juicy meat.
Cooking Tips for Rib Perfection:
- Don't be shy with the rub: A generous coating is key to achieving maximum flavor.
- Experiment with your heat level: Adjust the amount of cayenne pepper to your liking.
- Consider adding other spices: Get creative! Try adding a teaspoon of dried oregano or thyme for a unique twist.
- Use a meat thermometer: This is essential to ensure your ribs are cooked perfectly. Overcooked ribs are dry ribs!
Variations:
- Sweet & Spicy Ribs: Increase the brown sugar and add a tablespoon of brown mustard powder.
- Smoky Ribs: Use smoked paprika and add a few drops of liquid smoke.
- Garlic Lover's Ribs: Double the amount of garlic powder and add a tablespoon of minced fresh garlic to the rub before applying.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This will vary depending on the size of your ribs and cooking method. However, a general estimate per 3-4 oz serving could be:
- Calories: Around 250-300
- Protein: Around 20-25g
- Fat: Around 15-20g
- Carbohydrates: Around 10-15g
Note: This is just an estimate, and the actual nutritional content may vary.
This St. Louis style rib rub is sure to become a staple in your recipe repertoire. It's a delicious and easy way to elevate your barbecue game. Enjoy!