Smoky Sweet BBQ Pork Ribs
Indulge in mouthwatering Smoky Sweet BBQ Pork Ribs that combine tender meat with a rich, flavorful glaze. This delectable recipe enhances country-style pork ribs with a perfect balance of sweetness and tanginess. Ideal for family gatherings or weekend cookouts, these ribs will leave your guests asking for seconds. Enjoy the smoky aroma and deliciously sticky sauce that make this dish a true crowd-pleaser. Perfectly baked to achieve that golden, caramelized finish, these ribs are sure to become a favorite in your culinary repertoire.
4
Servings
N/A
Calories
10
Ingredients
Ingredients
Country-style pork ribs
3 lbs (Trimmed of excess fat)
Garlic salt
1/2 teaspoon (None)
Black pepper
1/2 teaspoon (Freshly ground)
Catsup
1 cup (None)
Brown sugar
1/2 cup (Packed)
Molasses
1/2 cup (None)
Spicy brown mustard
1/4 cup (None)
Worcestershire sauce
2 tablespoons (None)
Liquid smoke
1 tablespoon (None)
Cayenne pepper
1/8 teaspoon (None)
Instructions
1
Place the trimmed pork ribs in a 5-quart Dutch oven and cover them with water, ensuring the water barely covers the ribs.
2
Add the garlic salt and black pepper to the pot, stirring to combine.
3
Bring the water to a boil over medium heat, then reduce the heat to low, covering the pot with a lid.
4
Allow the ribs to simmer gently for 1 hour, which will help tenderize the meat.
5
Meanwhile, in a separate bowl, combine the catsup, brown sugar, molasses, spicy brown mustard, Worcestershire sauce, liquid smoke, and cayenne pepper; mix well and set aside.
6
After the hour of simmering, carefully drain the ribs in a colander to remove excess liquid.
7
Transfer the ribs to a baking dish, ensuring they are placed in a single layer and left uncovered.
8
Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
9
Bake the ribs for 25 to 30 minutes, basting the ribs with the prepared BBQ sauce every 10 minutes, until they are nicely glazed and caramelized.
10
Once done, remove the ribs from the oven and let them rest for a few minutes before cutting them into individual portions. Serve with extra sauce on the side.
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What are Smoky Sweet BBQ Pork Ribs?
Smoky Sweet BBQ Pork Ribs are tender country-style pork ribs glazed with a rich, flavorful sauce made from catsup, molasses, brown sugar, and liquid smoke.
What type of meat is used in this recipe?
This recipe calls for 3 lbs of country-style pork ribs, trimmed of excess fat.
How many people does this recipe serve?
This recipe is designed to yield approximately 4 servings.
How should I prepare the ribs before cooking?
The ribs should be trimmed of excess fat to ensure they cook evenly and aren't overly greasy.
What is the first step in the cooking process?
Place the trimmed pork ribs in a 5-quart Dutch oven and cover them with water.
What seasonings are added to the simmering water?
Garlic salt and black pepper are added to the water to season the meat while it tenderizes.
How long do the ribs need to simmer?
The ribs should simmer gently over low heat for 1 hour.
Why is simmering the ribs necessary?
Simmering the ribs for an hour helps to tenderize the meat before it is glazed and baked.
What ingredients are in the BBQ sauce?
The sauce is a mixture of catsup, brown sugar, molasses, spicy brown mustard, Worcestershire sauce, liquid smoke, and cayenne pepper.
What is the purpose of liquid smoke?
Liquid smoke provides a deep, smoky aroma and flavor that mimics the taste of ribs cooked in a smoker.
Is the BBQ sauce spicy?
The sauce has a mild kick from the spicy brown mustard and cayenne pepper, but it is balanced by the sweetness of the molasses and brown sugar.
Can I prepare the sauce in advance?
Yes, you can mix the BBQ sauce ingredients in a separate bowl and set it aside until the ribs are ready for baking.
What should I do after the ribs have finished simmering?
Carefully drain the ribs in a colander to remove the simmering liquid before transferring them to a baking dish.
How should the ribs be arranged for baking?
Transfer the ribs to a baking dish and arrange them in a single layer, ensuring they are left uncovered.
At what temperature should the oven be set?
The oven should be preheated to 425°F (220°C) for the baking process.
How long do the ribs bake in the oven?
The ribs bake for 25 to 30 minutes until they achieve a caramelized finish.
How often should the ribs be basted?
The ribs should be basted with the prepared BBQ sauce every 10 minutes during the baking process.
Why is basting important during the baking phase?
Basting ensures the ribs are well-coated and allows the sauce to caramelize into a sticky, delicious glaze.
Should the baking dish be covered or uncovered?
The ribs should be baked uncovered to allow the sauce to thicken and the meat to brown properly.
How do I know when the ribs are finished cooking?
The ribs are done when they are nicely glazed, caramelized, and heated through after 25-30 minutes of baking.
Why should the ribs rest after baking?
Resting allows the juices to redistribute, making the meat more succulent when you cut into it.
How should the ribs be served?
Cut them into individual portions and serve them with extra BBQ sauce on the side.
Can I substitute the spicy brown mustard?
You can use yellow mustard or Dijon mustard, though it will slightly alter the tanginess of the sauce.
Can I substitute the molasses?
Honey or maple syrup can be used as a substitute for molasses, though the flavor will be less robust.
Can I use a different type of rib for this recipe?
Yes, but baby back ribs or spare ribs may require different cooking times compared to country-style ribs.
What side dishes pair well with these ribs?
Common pairings include coleslaw, cornbread, baked beans, or potato salad.
How should I store any leftover ribs?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 to 4 days.
What is the best way to reheat the ribs?
Reheat them in the oven at a low temperature (300°F) covered with foil to prevent them from drying out.
Can these ribs be frozen for later?
Yes, you can freeze the cooked ribs in a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 3 months.
Can I finish these ribs on a grill instead of an oven?
Yes, after simmering, you can grill the ribs over medium heat, basting frequently until they are caramelized.