The smell of BBQ pork ribs sizzling on the grill is something that brings back fantastic memories. Picture a backyard barbecue with friends. Add some coleslaw, sweet corn, and maybe a slice of watermelon, and you've got yourself the perfect summer meal.
Often, I find myself dreaming about those lazy summer weekends when the air is hot and the grill is fired up. BBQ pork ribs are not just a dish; they’re a celebration, a crowd-pleaser that steals the show every time.
If you're looking to impress your guests or just enjoy a Sunday family dinner, this recipe has got you covered.
Now, let’s dive into the world of BBQ pork ribs—a dish that embodies the joy of summertime gatherings. Tender, juicy, and packed with flavor, these ribs are perfect for anyone who loves comfort food with a touch of smoky goodness. Whether you're celebrating the Fourth of July or hosting a simple get-together, BBQ pork ribs are the dish that brings everyone together.
BBQ pork ribs involve slow-cooking pork spareribs until they're fall-off-the-bone tender and then finishing them on the grill with a sticky, sweet sauce. It’s a classic American dish that people of all ages adore. Enjoy them slathered in a homemade sauce that balances sweetness with a punch of spice—an irresistible combo that amplifies the richness of the meat.
What Makes This Recipe Different From Other BBQ Pork Ribs Recipe?
What sets this recipe apart from others is the unique combination of ingredients that transform a simple rib dish into an unforgettable experience. The addition of rum gives it a subtle complexity that you won't find in typical recipes. Also, the marinade is allowed to work its magic for hours, ensuring that each bite bursts with flavor. Plus, I’ve switched it up by using brown sugar and fresh garlic to deepen the taste, making it more than just another BBQ recipe.
How Does It Taste Like?
Imagine sinking your teeth into tender, juicy ribs that have been caramelized to perfection. The sweetness from the brown sugar balances out the tanginess from the soy sauce and chile sauce, while the hint of garlic and mustard adds depth. Each bite is packed with a blend of sweetness, spice, and savory goodness. It’s indulgent and comforting—just how BBQ should be!
Ingredients You'll Need To Make This Dish
Gather these ingredients to make your BBQ pork ribs:
- 4 pounds pork spareribs
- 1 cup packed brown sugar
- ½ cup sweet chili sauce
- ½ cup ketchup
- ¼ cup soy sauce
- ¼ cup Worcestershire sauce
- ¼ cup dark rum
- 2 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dry mustard
- 1 dash black pepper
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- Cooking spray
Ingredients From : allrecipes.com/recipe
How to make BBQ Pork Ribs Recipe?
Let’s get cooking! This recipe is manageable, even for beginners, and the steps are straightforward. Keep an eye on the time since allowing the ribs to marinate will boost the flavor. Get your oven and grill ready, and let’s turn those ribs into a BBQ masterpiece!
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
First things first, crank your oven up to 350 degrees F (or 175 degrees C). Preheating is essential as it ensures even cooking right from the start.
Step 2: Prepare the Ribs
Cut the spareribs into serving-size portions. This way, they’ll cook evenly and make for easier serving later. Wrap each portion in a double thickness of aluminum foil to keep the moisture locked in.
Step 3: Bake the Ribs
Place the wrapped ribs on a baking sheet and pop them in the preheated oven. Bake for 1 ½ hours. This method will tenderize the meat, making it juicy.
Step 4: Get Rid of Excess Fat
Once the baking time is up, carefully unwrap the ribs (watch out for that steam!). Drain any drippings into a bowl. If you're savvy, you can freeze these drippings to use later in your soups or stocks for added flavor.
Step 5: Prepare the Marinade
In a large mixing bowl, combine the brown sugar, sweet chili sauce, ketchup, soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, rum, minced garlic, dry mustard, black pepper, and the tablespoon of apple cider vinegar. Whisk everything together until blended nicely—all that sweet and spicy goodness!
Step 6: Coat the Ribs
Transfer the baked ribs into a roasting pan and generously coat them with the prepared marinade. Make sure every inch is covered, as this will be your flavor bomb. Now, let them marinate at room temperature for one hour or, for the best flavor, refrigerate and let them marinate overnight.
Step 7: Preheat the Grill
When you’re ready to serve or when the marinating time is up, fire up the grill and set it to medium heat. Position the grate about four inches above the heat source, and grease it with cooking spray to prevent sticking.
Step 8: Grill the Ribs
Place the coated ribs on the grill and let them cook for 30 minutes. Make sure to baste them with the leftover marinade every 10 minutes for that sticky finish. You want everything caramelized and flavorful when you’re done.
Tips & Tricks On Making BBQ Pork Ribs Recipe
- Patience is key: Allowing your ribs to marinate longer yields incredible flavor. If you can, let them sit overnight.
- Use heavy-duty foil: It keeps moisture in and prevents tearing during baking.
- Don’t skip the rum: It adds a unique depth; use a decent quality.
- Baste often: This gives the ribs that mouth-watering glaze. It’s what makes them shine!
- Cook low and slow: If you have more time, consider cooking on low heat for an extended period. It’ll make the meat even more tender.
How Do I Store This Dish?
If you find yourself with leftovers (which is rare in my house!), let the ribs cool completely before storing them in an airtight container. They’ll keep in the refrigerator for up to three days. If you'd rather freeze them, wrap them tightly in aluminum foil and place them in a freezer-safe bag. They will last for about three months. Just be sure to label your containers—easy to forget what’s hiding back there!
Serving Suggestions
When it’s time to serve these delicious ribs, consider pairing them with:
- Classic coleslaw: The crunchiness adds a refreshing bite.
- Corn on the cob: Sweet and buttery—always a crowd favorite.
- Grilled vegetables: Zucchini, bell peppers, or asparagus add color and nutrition.
- Potato salad: Creamy and hearty, it contrasts perfectly with the BBQ flavors.
- Baked beans: A Southern staple that pairs so well with the smokiness of the ribs.
What Other Substitute Can I Use in BBQ Pork Ribs Recipe?
If you want to switch things up or are missing some ingredients, here are some alternatives:
- Chicken Ribs: Substitute chicken for a lighter option. They cook faster but still offer that BBQ vibe.
- Maple Syrup: Use maple syrup instead of brown sugar for a different sweetness.
- Hot Sauce: Replace sweet chili sauce with a hot version for an extra kick.
- Ginger: Add minced ginger instead of garlic for a unique twist on flavor.
- Different Spirits: Try bourbon instead of rum; it gives a wonderful warmth and smokiness.
Conclusion
These BBQ pork ribs are a labor of love but absolutely worth every minute. With flavorful ingredients and a cooking method that focuses on tenderness, you’ll be the BBQ star at your next gathering.
Enjoy them with your favorite sides and watch as they disappear from the table like magic. After you give this recipe a try, I hope it becomes a staple in your culinary repertoire too! Happy grilling!
Now, let’s dive into the world of BBQ pork ribs—a dish that embodies the joy of summertime gatherings. Tender, juicy, and packed with flavor, these ribs are perfect for anyone who loves comfort food with a touch of smoky goodness. Whether you're celebrating the Fourth of July or hosting a simple get-together, BBQ pork ribs are the dish that brings everyone together.
Ingredient
Gather these ingredients to make your BBQ pork ribs:
4 - pounds pork spareribs
1 - cup packed brown sugar
- ½ cup sweet chili sauce
- ½ cup ketchup
- ¼ cup soy sauce
- ¼ cup Worcestershire sauce
- ¼ cup dark rum
2 - cloves of garlic, minced
1 - teaspoon dry mustard
1 - dash black pepper
1 - tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- Cooking spray
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
1
First things first, crank your oven up to 350 degrees F (or 175 degrees C). Preheating is essential as it ensures even cooking right from the start.
Step 2: Prepare the Ribs
2
Cut the spareribs into serving-size portions. This way, they’ll cook evenly and make for easier serving later. Wrap each portion in a double thickness of aluminum foil to keep the moisture locked in.
Step 3: Bake the Ribs
3
Place the wrapped ribs on a baking sheet and pop them in the preheated oven. Bake for 1 ½ hours. This method will tenderize the meat, making it juicy.
Step 4: Get Rid of Excess Fat
4
Once the baking time is up, carefully unwrap the ribs (watch out for that steam!). Drain any drippings into a bowl. If you're savvy, you can freeze these drippings to use later in your soups or stocks for added flavor.
Step 5: Prepare the Marinade
5
In a large mixing bowl, combine the brown sugar, sweet chili sauce, ketchup, soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, rum, minced garlic, dry mustard, black pepper, and the tablespoon of apple cider vinegar. Whisk everything together until blended nicely—all that sweet and spicy goodness!
Step 6: Coat the Ribs
6
Transfer the baked ribs into a roasting pan and generously coat them with the prepared marinade. Make sure every inch is covered, as this will be your flavor bomb. Now, let them marinate at room temperature for one hour or, for the best flavor, refrigerate and let them marinate overnight.
Step 7: Preheat the Grill
7
When you’re ready to serve or when the marinating time is up, fire up the grill and set it to medium heat. Position the grate about four inches above the heat source, and grease it with cooking spray to prevent sticking.
Step 8: Grill the Ribs
8
Place the coated ribs on the grill and let them cook for 30 minutes. Make sure to baste them with the leftover marinade every 10 minutes for that sticky finish. You want everything caramelized and flavorful when you’re done.
Nutrition Facts
Servings 6
Amount Per Serving
Calories450kcal
% Daily Value *
Total Fat30g47%
Total Carbohydrate23g8%
Protein30g60%
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
Note
- Patience is key: Allowing your ribs to marinate longer yields incredible flavor. If you can, let them sit overnight.
- Use heavy-duty foil: It keeps moisture in and prevents tearing during baking.
- Don’t skip the rum: It adds a unique depth; use a decent quality.
- Baste often: This gives the ribs that mouth-watering glaze. It’s what makes them shine!
- Cook low and slow: If you have more time, consider cooking on low heat for an extended period. It’ll make the meat even more tender.
Keywords:
BBQ Pork Ribs Recipe
Lisa Schneider
Registered dietitian, food lover and food blogger
I'm Lisa Schneider, a registered dietitian and the creator of Simple Food Dishes. My passion is to help people create easy, nutritious meals that fit seamlessly into their busy lives. Through this blog, I aim to make home cooking fun, accessible, and stress-free for everyone!