Get ready to tantalize your taste buds with the ultimate comfort food: Falling Off Bone Barbecue Ribs! Imagine sinking your teeth into succulent, tender meat that practically melts in your mouth, all slathered in a rich, smoky barbecue sauce. Whether you're planning a summer cookout or a cozy family dinner, this recipe is sure to impress your guests and leave them craving more. With just a few simple ingredients and a little patience, you can create a dish that rivals your favorite barbecue joint. Ready to become the grill master of your dreams? Let’s dive into the delicious details!
Prep Time: 20 mins
Cook Time: 4 hrs
Total Time: 4 hrs 20 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 2 racks baby back ribs
- 1 cup barbecue sauce
- 2 tablespoons dry rub seasoning
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C). This low and slow cooking method is essential for achieving tender, falling-off-the-bone ribs.
- While the oven is preheating, prepare the ribs. Remove the membrane from the back of the ribs if it hasn't been done already. This will help the seasoning penetrate the meat and make for a more tender rib.
- In a small bowl, combine the dry rub seasoning, cayenne pepper, and honey. Mix well to create a paste-like consistency. This will serve as your flavor base for the ribs.
- Generously apply the dry rub mixture to both sides of the ribs, ensuring that you cover all areas. Massage the seasoning into the meat for maximum flavor.
- Place the seasoned ribs on a large baking sheet lined with aluminum foil. This will help with cleanup later and keep the moisture in. You can also use a roasting pan if you prefer.
- Cover the ribs tightly with another piece of aluminum foil to trap the moisture and steam during cooking. This is crucial for achieving that tender texture.
- Place the baking sheet with the covered ribs in the preheated oven. Cook for 3 to 4 hours, depending on the size of the ribs. The longer they cook, the more tender they will become.
- After the cooking time is up, carefully remove the ribs from the oven. Be cautious of the steam when removing the foil.
- Brush a generous layer of barbecue sauce over the ribs. You can use store-bought or homemade sauce, depending on your preference.
- For an extra caramelized finish, you can place the ribs under the broiler for about 5 minutes after applying the barbecue sauce. Keep a close eye on them to prevent burning.
- Once the ribs are nicely caramelized, remove them from the oven and let them rest for about 10 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, making for a juicier bite.
- Slice the ribs between the bones and serve with additional barbecue sauce on the side. Enjoy your delicious, falling-off-the-bone barbecue ribs!
Tips
- Low and Slow is Key: Cooking the ribs at a low temperature (300°F) for several hours is crucial for achieving that tender, falling-off-the-bone texture. Resist the urge to rush the process!
- Membrane Removal: Don’t forget to remove the membrane from the back of the ribs. This step is essential for allowing the seasoning to penetrate the meat and enhancing tenderness.
- Flavor Boost with Honey: Incorporating honey into your dry rub mixture not only adds sweetness but also helps create a beautiful caramelized crust when the ribs are finished cooking.
- Cover Tightly: When wrapping the ribs in aluminum foil, make sure it’s tightly sealed. This traps steam and moisture, which is vital for tenderizing the meat during cooking.
- Broil for Extra Flavor: For that perfect caramelized finish, pop the ribs under the broiler for a few minutes after applying the barbecue sauce. Just keep a close eye on them to prevent burning!
- Let Them Rest: After cooking, allow the ribs to rest for about 10 minutes before slicing. This helps the juices redistribute throughout the meat, ensuring every bite is juicy and flavorful.
- Serve with Style: Pair your ribs with classic sides like coleslaw, cornbread, or baked beans for a complete barbecue feast that your friends and family will rave about!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 223kcal
Carbohydrates: g
Protein: g
Fat: 14g
Saturated Fat: 5g
Cholesterol: 50mg
