Spare Ribs

If you’re looking for a show-stopping dish to impress your family and friends, look no further than spare ribs. These succulent cuts of meat are slow-cooked to perfection, resulting in tender, fall-off-the-bone goodness that’s enhanced by a flavorful marinade. Whether grilled, baked, or smoked, spare ribs are a versatile dish that brings comfort and satisfaction to any gathering.

Ingredients

• 2 lbs spare ribs
• 1 cup barbecue sauce
• 2 tablespoons brown sugar
• 1 tablespoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
• Fresh herbs for garnish (optional)

Servings and Cooking Time

This recipe serves 4 people. Preparation time is approximately 15 minutes, with a cooking time of 2 to 3 hours, depending on your cooking method.

Nutritional Value

Each serving (1/4 of the recipe) contains approximately 400 calories, 30g of protein, 30g of fat, and 15g of carbohydrates. This is based on standard preparation and can vary with different barbecue sauces.

Step-by-Step Cooking Process

1. Preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. Pat the spare ribs dry with paper towels.
3. In a bowl, mix brown sugar, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper.
4. Rub the spice mixture evenly over the ribs.
5. Place the ribs on a baking sheet lined with foil.
6. Cover the ribs with another piece of foil to retain moisture.
7. Bake in the preheated oven for 2 hours.
8. Remove the top foil and brush the ribs with barbecue sauce.
9. Increase the oven temperature to 400°F (200°C) and bake for an additional 30 minutes.
10. Let the ribs rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.

Alternative Ingredients

You can substitute the barbecue sauce with a homemade version using ketchup, vinegar, and your favorite spices. Additionally, use honey instead of brown sugar for a different flavor profile.

Serving and Pairings

Spare ribs pair beautifully with coleslaw, baked beans, or cornbread. For a refreshing touch, serve with a side salad or pickles to balance the richness.

Storage and Reheating

Store leftover spare ribs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. They can be reheated in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15 minutes. Spare ribs can also be frozen for up to 3 months; just ensure they’re well-wrapped.

Cooking Mistakes

• Not removing the membrane from the ribs can result in a tough texture.
• Cooking at too high a temperature can dry out the meat.
• Skipping the resting time after cooking can make the ribs less juicy.
• Using too much sauce during baking can lead to burning.
• Not seasoning adequately can result in bland ribs.
• Overcooking the ribs can make them fall apart before serving.
• Forgetting to cover the ribs while baking can dry them out.

Helpful Tips

• Marinate the ribs overnight for deeper flavor.
• Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness.
• Experiment with different spices for unique flavors.
• Add a splash of apple cider vinegar to the sauce for tanginess.
• Consider smoking the ribs for an authentic barbecue flavor.

FAQs

How long should I cook spare ribs?

Spare ribs should be cooked for about 2 to 3 hours at a low temperature for tender results. Adjust time based on your cooking method and thickness of the ribs.

Can I grill spare ribs?

Yes, grilling is a great method for spare ribs. Cook them indirectly on a grill for about 1.5 to 2 hours, applying sauce during the last 30 minutes.

What’s the best way to season spare ribs?

A dry rub with brown sugar, paprika, and spices enhances the flavor. You can also marinate them in barbecue sauce for a few hours or overnight.

Are spare ribs the same as baby back ribs?

No, spare ribs come from the belly side of the pig, while baby back ribs are cut from the top of the rib cage. Spare ribs are generally larger and meatier.

Can I make spare ribs in a slow cooker?

Absolutely! Cook them on low for 6 to 8 hours, then finish with a quick broil to caramelize the sauce.

Conclusion

Spare ribs are a classic dish that brings everyone together around the table. With their rich flavors and tender texture, they’ll surely become a favorite in your household. Enjoy the process of cooking and savor every delicious bite!

Spare Ribs

Indulge in the savory goodness of tender spare ribs, coated in a rich glaze, perfect for gatherings and family meals.

Print Pin Rate

Course: Main Course

Cuisine: American

Keyword: spare ribs, BBQ, meat, American cuisine

Prep Time: 15 minutes minutes

Cook Time: 2 hours hours 30 minutes minutes

Total Time: 2 hours hours 45 minutes minutes

Servings: 4 servings

Calories: 400kcal

Ingredients

• 2 lbs spare ribs
• 1 cup barbecue sauce
• 2 tablespoons brown sugar
• 1 tablespoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper optional
• Fresh herbs for garnish optional

Instructions

• Preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C).
• Pat the spare ribs dry with paper towels.
• Mix brown sugar, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper in a bowl.
• Rub the spice mixture evenly over the ribs.
• Place the ribs on a baking sheet lined with foil and cover with another piece of foil.
• Bake in the preheated oven for 2 hours.
• Remove the top foil and brush the ribs with barbecue sauce.
• Increase the oven temperature to 400°F (200°C) and bake for an additional 30 minutes.
• Let the ribs rest for 10 minutes before slicing.
• Serve and enjoy your delicious spare ribs!

Nutrition

Calories: 400kcal | Carbohydrates: 15g | Protein: 30g | Fat: 30g