Smoky Memphis-Style Baby Back Ribs
Experience the soulful flavors of Memphis with these tender, smoky baby back ribs that are seasoned to perfection with a robust spice rub. Slow-roasted for optimal tenderness, these ribs are a true crowd-pleaser, perfect for family gatherings or summer cookouts. The blend of sweet paprika, chili powder, and garlic powder infuses the meat with a depth of flavor, while the optional homemade BBQ sauce adds a tangy complement to every bite. Serve these delectable ribs with classic sides like coleslaw or baked beans for a complete Memphis-style feast.
N/A
Servings
375
Calories
13
Ingredients
Ingredients
Baby-back pork ribs
2 (2 1/2 lb each, about 5 pounds total)
Sweet paprika
2 teaspoons
Chili powder
2 teaspoons
Garlic powder
1 teaspoon
Dried oregano
1/2 teaspoon
Salt
1 teaspoon
Black pepper
1 teaspoon
Tomato sauce
2 (8-ounce) cans
Onion
1/2 (finely chopped)
Apple cider vinegar
6 tablespoons
Brown sugar
3 tablespoons
Hot pepper sauce
1/2 teaspoon
Salt and pepper
to taste
Instructions
1
Preheat your oven to 275°F (135°C) to prepare for slow-roasting the ribs.
2
In a medium bowl, combine the sweet paprika, chili powder, garlic powder, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper. Mix well to create an aromatic rub.
3
Using a paring knife, carefully cut along the membrane on the bone side of each rack of ribs to help the seasoning penetrate better. Pat the ribs dry with paper towels, then generously rub the spice mixture all over both sides of the ribs.
4
Place the seasoned ribs, meaty side down, in a single layer on a large baking sheet. Roast in the oven for about 3 hours, turning the ribs halfway through to ensure even cooking. The ribs are done when they are very tender and almost falling off the bone.
5
While the ribs are roasting, prepare the optional BBQ sauce. In a small saucepan, combine the tomato sauce, finely chopped onion, apple cider vinegar, brown sugar, and hot pepper sauce. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium heat.
6
Once boiling, reduce the heat and let the sauce simmer for approximately 10 minutes, or until it thickens slightly. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper to taste.
7
After roasting, remove the ribs from the oven and let them rest for a few minutes before cutting them into individual ribs. Serve the ribs hot, alongside the BBQ sauce for dipping.
Nutrition Information
27g
Fat
19g
Carbs
25g
Protein
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What are Smoky Memphis-Style Baby Back Ribs?
They are tender, smoky baby back ribs seasoned with a robust spice rub and slow-roasted for optimal tenderness, typical of Memphis soulful flavors.
What type of meat is used in this recipe?
The recipe calls for two racks of baby-back pork ribs, weighing approximately 2.5 pounds each.
What is the total weight of the ribs needed?
You will need about 5 pounds of baby-back pork ribs in total.
At what temperature should the oven be preheated?
Preheat your oven to 275 degrees Fahrenheit or 135 degrees Celsius.
What ingredients make up the aromatic dry rub?
The rub consists of sweet paprika, chili powder, garlic powder, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper.
How should I prepare the ribs before applying the seasoning?
Use a paring knife to cut along the membrane on the bone side and pat the ribs dry with paper towels.
Why is it important to cut the membrane on the bone side?
Cutting the membrane helps the spice rub seasoning penetrate the meat better.
How long do the ribs need to roast in the oven?
The ribs should roast for about 3 hours until they are very tender.
Should I flip the ribs while they are roasting?
Yes, you should turn the ribs halfway through the 3-hour roasting time to ensure even cooking.
How do I know when the ribs are finished cooking?
The ribs are done when they are very tender and almost falling off the bone.
What are the ingredients for the optional BBQ sauce?
The sauce includes tomato sauce, finely chopped onion, apple cider vinegar, brown sugar, and hot pepper sauce.
How do I prepare the homemade BBQ sauce?
Combine the ingredients in a saucepan, bring to a boil over medium heat, then reduce heat to simmer.
How long should the BBQ sauce simmer?
Let the sauce simmer for approximately 10 minutes or until it thickens slightly.
What position should the ribs be in when placed on the baking sheet?
The seasoned ribs should be placed meaty side down in a single layer.
How should the ribs be served?
Serve the ribs hot, cut into individual pieces, alongside the BBQ sauce for dipping.
What side dishes go well with Memphis-style ribs?
Classic sides like coleslaw or baked beans are excellent complements for a complete Memphis-style feast.
How many calories are in a serving of these ribs?
There are 375 calories per serving.
What is the fat content per serving?
Each serving contains 27 grams of fat.
How many grams of protein are in these ribs?
There are 25 grams of protein per serving.
What is the carbohydrate count for this recipe?
The recipe contains 19 grams of carbohydrates per serving.
Is this recipe suitable for a main course?
Yes, it is tagged as both a main course and a great option for an appetizer.
What type of vinegar is used in the sauce?
The recipe specifies apple cider vinegar for the tangy BBQ sauce.
Can I adjust the spiciness of the BBQ sauce?
Yes, you can adjust the hot pepper sauce to your preference or add extra salt and pepper to taste.
Should the ribs rest after cooking?
Yes, let the ribs rest for a few minutes after removing them from the oven before cutting.
What gives the rub its sweet and smoky profile?
The combination of sweet paprika and chili powder provides the signature robust flavor.
How many ingredients are required in total for this recipe?
There are 13 total ingredients including the ribs, spices, and sauce components.
Is the onion in the sauce cooked?
Yes, the finely chopped onion is simmered within the sauce mixture until thickened.
What type of sugar is used for the BBQ sauce?
The sauce uses 3 tablespoons of brown sugar.
What is the cooking method for this recipe?
The primary method is slow-roasting in the oven at a low temperature.
What categories does this recipe fall into?
This recipe is categorized under barbecue, pork, slow-cooked, and comfort food.