Introduction
Sweet and spicy oven-baked ribs are a delightful dish that combines a variety of flavors to create a mouthwatering experience. This recipe is perfect for those who love tender, juicy ribs with just the right amount of sweetness and a hint of heat. The slow cooking process allows the flavors to meld beautifully, resulting in succulent meat that falls off the bone. Whether you’re hosting a barbecue or enjoying a cozy dinner at home, these ribs are sure to impress.
Ingredients
Pork ribs – 2 to 3 pounds
Brown sugar – 1/2 cup
Paprika – 2 tablespoons
Salt – 1 tablespoon
Black pepper – 1 teaspoon
Cayenne pepper – 1 teaspoon
Garlic powder – 1 teaspoon
Onion powder – 1 teaspoon
Soy sauce – 1/4 cup
Apple cider vinegar – 1/4 cup
Honey – 1/4 cup
Chipotle peppers in adobo sauce – 2, minced
Lime juice – 1 tablespoon
Prep Time
The preparation time for these delicious sweet and spicy baked ribs is approximately 15 minutes. This includes gathering all ingredients and preparing the rib rub.
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cook time is around 2 to 2.5 hours in the oven. This results in a total time of about 2 hours and 15 minutes to 2 hours and 45 minutes from start to finish. This recipe yields about 4 servings, perfect for a small family or gathering. Enjoy the tantalizing flavors of these oven-baked ribs that are sure to satisfy any meat lover’s cravings!
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Prepare the Ribs
Remove the membrane from the back of the ribs for better flavor absorption and tenderness. Trim any excess fat from the ribs as needed.
Make the Marinade
In a medium bowl, combine brown sugar, salt, paprika, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, and ground mustard. Mix well until thoroughly combined.
Season the Ribs
Rub the marinade mixture all over the ribs, covering both sides evenly. For enhanced flavor, allow the ribs to marinate in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour, preferably overnight.
Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C) to prepare for slow cooking the ribs.
Prepare for Baking
Place the seasoned ribs on a baking sheet lined with aluminum foil. Cover the ribs tightly with another piece of foil to keep them moist during cooking.
Bake the Ribs
Transfer the covered ribs to the oven and bake for 2 to 2½ hours until tender. The ribs should be cooked through and easily pull apart with a fork.
Make the Sauce
While the ribs are baking, combine ketchup, apple cider vinegar, Worcestershire sauce, and hot sauce in a saucepan. Heat over medium-low and stir until warmed through.
Glaze the Ribs
Once the ribs are cooked, remove them from the oven and carefully take off the top layer of foil. Brush the sauce generously over the ribs.
Final Bake
Return the ribs to the oven without the foil and bake for an additional 15-30 minutes. This will enhance the flavor and create a nice glaze.
Rest and Serve
After baking, let the ribs rest for about 10 minutes before cutting. Serve them warm with additional sauce on the side if desired.
Notes
Choosing Ribs
Baby back ribs or spare ribs can be used based on preference for meatiness and tenderness.
Storage
Leftover ribs can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 3 months.
Adjusting Spice Levels
Feel free to adjust the amount of cayenne pepper and hot sauce to suit your taste preferences.
Grill Finishing Option
For a charred finish, you can finish the ribs on a grill instead of the oven. Grill them over medium heat, brushing with glaze until caramelized.
Cook techniques
Oven Baking
Oven baking is a slow cooking method that allows the ribs to tenderize while absorbing flavors from the seasoning and sauce. This method provides even cooking throughout the meat.
Seasoning
Properly seasoning the ribs helps to enhance their flavor. Applying a balance of sweet and spicy spices creates a rich taste profile that complements the natural flavor of the meat.
Marinating
Marinating the ribs before cooking allows the flavors to penetrate deeply into the meat, resulting in a more flavorful dish. A marinade can include various ingredients, such as spices, sweeteners, and acidic components.
Timing
Cooking the ribs low and slow is essential for achieving tenderness. Keeping the cooking time longer at a lower temperature helps break down the connective tissue in the meat.
Glazing
Applying a glaze towards the end of the cooking process adds a sweet, sticky finish to the ribs, enhancing both texture and flavor. It creates a delicious caramelized surface that contrasts with the tender meat.
FAQ
Can I use other types of ribs?
Yes, you can use different types of ribs, such as baby back ribs or spare ribs. Adjust the cooking time as needed based on the thickness of the meat.
How can I make the ribs spicier?
To increase the spiciness, you can add more chili powder or incorporate hot sauce into the marinade or glaze.
What should I serve with oven-baked ribs?
Oven-baked ribs pair well with sides like coleslaw, cornbread, or baked beans. These accompaniments complement the rich flavors of the ribs.
Can I prepare the ribs in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the ribs ahead of time. Cook them according to the recipe, then refrigerate or freeze. Reheat when ready to serve.
How do I store leftovers?
Leftover ribs should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can also freeze them for longer storage.
Conclusion
The sweet and spicy oven-baked ribs are a delicious way to enjoy tender, flavorful meat with a delightful glaze. This recipe balances sweetness and heat, resulting in a mouthwatering dish that is perfect for any occasion. By following the steps and allowing the flavors to develop, you can create a memorable meal that will impress your family and friends.
More recipes suggestions and combination
Barbecue Chicken Wings
Try marinating chicken wings in a similar sweet and spicy sauce before baking or grilling for a delightful appetizer.
Honey Garlic Salmon
The combination of honey and garlic creates a fantastic glaze for salmon, perfectly complementing the sweetness and heat found in the ribs.
Spicy Meatball Subs
Use a sweet and spicy sauce to coat meatballs and serve them in a toasted sub roll for a hearty sandwich with a kick.
Grilled Vegetable Skewers
Add a touch of sweetness with a honey and spice marinade on grilled vegetables for a delicious side dish that pairs well with ribs.
Sweet and Spicy Tofu Stir-Fry
Marinate tofu in a similar sauce and toss it in a stir-fry with vegetables for a satisfying vegetarian option.