Get ready to transform your ordinary dinner into a mouthwatering culinary adventure that will have everyone begging for seconds! These tangy Memphis-style BBQ ribs are not just a meal – they're a flavor experience that combines the perfect balance of sweet, spicy, and smoky notes. Whether you're a BBQ novice or a grill master, this recipe promises to deliver restaurant-quality ribs right from your own oven, with a homemade sauce that will make store-bought versions seem bland in comparison.
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 2 hrs
Total Time: 2 hrs 10 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 cup ketchup
- 1/2 cup apple cider vinegar
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 2 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tbsp mustard
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 2 lbs pork ribs
Instructions
- Prepare the BBQ Sauce: In a medium saucepan, combine ketchup, apple cider vinegar, brown sugar, Worcestershire sauce, mustard, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper. Whisk ingredients together until fully incorporated.
- Simmer the sauce over medium-low heat for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally. The sauce will thicken and develop a rich, deep flavor. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
- Preheat the oven to 275°F (135°C). Remove the membrane from the back of the pork ribs by sliding a knife under the thin skin and pulling it off completely.
- Pat the ribs dry with paper towels. Season both sides generously with additional salt and pepper if desired.
- Place the ribs on a large baking sheet lined with aluminum foil, bone-side down. Cover tightly with another sheet of foil to create a sealed packet.
- Bake the ribs in the preheated oven for 2 hours, allowing them to become tender and slowly cook.
- Remove ribs from oven and carefully drain any accumulated liquid. Brush generously with the prepared BBQ sauce, covering all surfaces.
- Increase oven temperature to 425°F (218°C). Return ribs to oven, uncovered, and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes to caramelize the sauce.
- Remove from oven and let rest for 10 minutes. Slice between the bones and serve with extra BBQ sauce on the side.
Tips
- Membrane Removal: Always remove the tough membrane from the back of the ribs for maximum tenderness and better sauce absorption.
- Low and Slow: The key to incredibly tender ribs is cooking at a low temperature (275°F) for a longer time, which breaks down the connective tissues.
- Sauce Timing: Apply the BBQ sauce towards the end of cooking to prevent burning and achieve a beautiful caramelized glaze.
- Resting is Crucial: Let the ribs rest for 10 minutes after cooking to allow the juices to redistribute, ensuring each bite is moist and flavorful.
- Customize Your Heat: Adjust the cayenne pepper to control the spice level – start with less and add more if you like it hot!
- Make Ahead: The BBQ sauce can be prepared in advance and stored in the refrigerator for up to a week, making meal prep even easier.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 480kcal
Carbohydrates: 18g
Protein: 38g
Fat: 28g
Saturated Fat: 10g
Cholesterol: 140mg
