These BBQ ribs are a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, perfect for backyard barbecues, potlucks, or a relaxed family dinner. The slow-cooking process ensures the ribs are incredibly tender and juicy, while the homemade barbecue sauce adds a beautiful balance of sweet, smoky, and tangy flavors.
Ingredients:
- For the Ribs:
- 4 pounds baby back ribs or spare ribs, cut into sections
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper
- For the Dry Rub:
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon paprika
- 1 tablespoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust for desired spice level)
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- For the Barbecue Sauce:
- 1 cup ketchup
- 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
- 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
- 1/4 cup Worcestershire sauce
- 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Pinch of cayenne pepper (adjust for desired spice level)
Instructions:
- Prep the Ribs: Preheat oven to 225°F (107°C). Pat the ribs dry with paper towels. Season generously with salt and pepper.
- Make the Dry Rub: In a small bowl, whisk together the brown sugar, paprika, chili powder, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, thyme, and black pepper.
- Season the Ribs: Rub the dry rub mixture all over the ribs, ensuring they are well coated.
- Slow Cook the Ribs: Place the seasoned ribs in a large roasting pan or Dutch oven. Drizzle with olive oil. Cover tightly with aluminum foil. Bake for 2-2 ½ hours, or until the ribs are tender but not falling off the bone.
- Make the Barbecue Sauce: While the ribs are baking, prepare the sauce. In a saucepan, whisk together ketchup, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, Worcestershire sauce, Dijon mustard, soy sauce, garlic, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper. Bring the sauce to a simmer over medium heat and cook for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until slightly thickened.
- Glaze the Ribs: Increase the oven temperature to 350°F (175°C). Remove the ribs from the oven and carefully remove the foil. Brush the ribs generously with the barbecue sauce. Return the ribs to the oven, uncovered, and bake for an additional 30-45 minutes, or until the sauce is caramelized and sticky. Baste the ribs with additional sauce every 15 minutes for extra flavor.
- Serve and Enjoy: Let the ribs rest for 10 minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute and ensures a more flavorful bite. Serve with your favorite BBQ sides and enjoy!