Savory Old Bay Baby Back Ribs
Indulge in the ultimate barbecue experience with these Savory Old Bay Baby Back Ribs. Infused with the distinct flavors of Old Bay seasoning, this recipe transforms traditional ribs into a mouthwatering dish that surprises and delights. The initial boiling process ensures the meat is tender and juicy, while the sweet and spicy rub enhances every bite. Whether you're grilling under the summer sun or slow-baking for that perfect caramelization, these ribs are guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser. With just a touch of brown sugar and your favorite barbecue sauce, these ribs are not only incredibly flavorful but also easy to prepare. Perfect for family gatherings or a cozy evening, they can be prepped ahead of time so you can enjoy the festivities without stress.
N/A
Servings
N/A
Calories
6
Ingredients
Ingredients
Baby back rib racks
2.5 lb (cut into 3 or 4 rib sections)
Medium onion
1 (peeled and quartered)
Garlic cloves
2 (peeled and smashed)
Old Bay Seasoning
4 teaspoons (as is for the rub)
Brown sugar
2 tablespoons (as is for the rub)
Favorite barbecue sauce
to taste (for basting and serving)
Instructions
1
Start by cutting the baby back rib racks into sections of 3 to 4 ribs each.
2
In a large stockpot, place the rib sections along with the quartered onion and smashed garlic cloves.
3
Cover the ribs with water and bring the pot to a full boil over high heat.
4
Once boiling, cover the pot and reduce the heat, allowing the ribs to simmer for 45 minutes to ensure tenderness.
5
While the ribs are simmering, prepare the rub by mixing together the Old Bay seasoning and brown sugar in a small bowl until well combined.
6
Once the ribs have finished simmering, carefully remove them from the stockpot and place them on a platter. Allow them to cool for about 5 minutes.
7
Generously rub the seasoning mix over the ribs, ensuring an even coating for maximum flavor.
8
Let the seasoned ribs rest at room temperature for a minimum of 20 minutes, or refrigerate them wrapped for up to 24 hours to develop the flavors.
9
If refrigerated, bring the ribs to room temperature before cooking.
10
For grilling, preheat your grill to medium or medium-high heat. Place the ribs on the grill and cook for 5 minutes on each side. Then, baste them with your choice of barbecue sauce and continue to grill for an additional 5-10 minutes on each side until heated through and slightly charred.
11
If you prefer to bake, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the ribs in a shallow baking dish and bake for about 10 minutes. After 10 minutes, baste the ribs with barbecue sauce and bake for another 10 minutes. Flip the ribs, baste the other side, and continue baking for an additional 10 minutes until thoroughly heated.
12
Serve the ribs with extra barbecue sauce on the side for dipping, and enjoy!
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What are Savory Old Bay Baby Back Ribs?
These are tender baby back ribs infused with the distinct flavors of Old Bay seasoning, brown sugar, and barbecue sauce.
How many pounds of ribs does this recipe require?
The recipe calls for 2.5 pounds of baby back rib racks.
How should I cut the ribs before cooking?
You should cut the baby back rib racks into sections containing 3 to 4 ribs each.
Why are the ribs boiled before grilling or baking?
The initial boiling process ensures that the meat is tender and juicy before the final cooking and caramelization step.
How long should the ribs simmer in the stockpot?
The ribs should simmer for 45 minutes once the water reaches a full boil.
What ingredients are added to the boiling water?
Add one quartered medium onion and two smashed garlic cloves to the water for extra flavor during the simmer.
What is in the seasoning rub for these ribs?
The rub is a mixture of 4 teaspoons of Old Bay seasoning and 2 tablespoons of brown sugar.
How long should the ribs cool after boiling?
Allow the ribs to cool for about 5 minutes after removing them from the stockpot and before applying the rub.
How long should the seasoned ribs rest?
Let the seasoned ribs rest at room temperature for at least 20 minutes to allow the flavors to develop.
Can I prepare these ribs a day in advance?
Yes, once seasoned, the ribs can be wrapped and refrigerated for up to 24 hours.
What should I do if I refrigerated the ribs overnight?
If refrigerated, ensure you bring the ribs back to room temperature before you begin the grilling or baking process.
What is the recommended grill temperature?
Preheat your grill to medium or medium-high heat for the best results.
How long do I grill the ribs on each side initially?
Grill the ribs for 5 minutes on each side before applying the barbecue sauce.
How long do the ribs grill after basting with sauce?
After basting, grill for an additional 5-10 minutes per side until they are heated through and slightly charred.
What temperature should the oven be for baking?
If you choose to bake the ribs, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
How long is the total baking time?
The ribs bake for approximately 30 minutes in total, with basting occurring throughout the process.
How do I baste the ribs while baking?
Baste after the first 10 minutes, bake for 10 more, then flip, baste the other side, and finish with a final 10 minutes.
What type of barbecue sauce should I use?
You can use any of your favorite barbecue sauces to baste and serve with the ribs.
How do I prepare the garlic for the boil?
The two garlic cloves should be peeled and smashed before being added to the stockpot.
How do I prepare the onion for the boil?
Take one medium onion, peel it, and cut it into quarters.
Is there a specific way to serve these ribs?
Serve the ribs with extra barbecue sauce on the side for dipping.
Does the rub need to be even?
Yes, generously rub the seasoning mix over the ribs to ensure an even coating for maximum flavor.
Are these ribs suitable for summer gatherings?
Yes, they are described as a perfect crowd-pleaser for family gatherings and summer grilling.
Can these ribs be made if I don't have a grill?
Yes, the recipe provides detailed instructions for slow-baking them in a 350°F oven.
What is the primary flavor profile?
The profile is savory and sweet, combining the coastal spice of Old Bay with the richness of brown sugar.
How much Old Bay Seasoning is used?
The recipe requires 4 teaspoons of Old Bay Seasoning.
How much brown sugar is used?
The recipe requires 2 tablespoons of brown sugar.
What kind of baking dish is needed?
Use a shallow baking dish if you are cooking the ribs in the oven.
Are these ribs tender?
Yes, the combination of simmering and controlled finishing on the grill or in the oven makes them very tender.
Can I adjust the spiciness?
Yes, you can control the spice level by choosing a spicy or mild variety of barbecue sauce.