Description
These BBQ ribs are fall-off-the-bone tender, baked low and slow, and then slathered with a smoky honey glaze that caramelizes to sticky perfection. This recipe delivers restaurant-quality ribs in your own kitchen or backyard, perfect for family dinners, barbecues, or any occasion that calls for a meaty, flavorful centerpiece.
Ingredients:
- 2 racks beef or lamb ribs (about 4 lbs)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper (optional)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
For the Smoky Honey Glaze:
- 1 cup ketchup
- 1/2 cup honey
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar
- 2 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1/2 tsp chili flakes (optional for heat)
Preparation:
Step 1: Preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C). Line a large baking sheet with heavy-duty aluminum foil. This will make cleanup much easier.
Step 2: Prepare the Ribs: In a small bowl, mix together olive oil, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper (if using), salt, and pepper. Rub this mixture generously all over both sides of the rib racks.
Step 3: Wrap the Ribs: Place each rack of ribs on the prepared baking sheet. Wrap each rack tightly with aluminum foil, ensuring there are no openings for steam to escape. This creates a steamy environment that helps tenderize the ribs.
Step 4: Bake the Ribs: Place the wrapped ribs in the preheated oven and bake for 2.5 to 3 hours. The ribs are done when the meat is very tender and easily pulls away from the bone.
Step 5: Prepare the Smoky Honey Glaze: While the ribs are baking, prepare the glaze. In a medium saucepan, combine ketchup, honey, soy sauce, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and chili flakes (if using).
Step 6: Simmer the Glaze: Place the saucepan over medium heat and bring the glaze to a simmer. Reduce the heat to low and simmer for 10-15 minutes, or until the glaze has thickened slightly. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and burning.
Step 7: Glaze the Ribs: Once the ribs are tender, remove them from the oven. Carefully unwrap the foil, allowing any steam to escape. Brush the ribs generously on both sides with the smoky honey glaze.
Step 8: Finish in the Oven or on the Grill: You have two options for finishing the ribs:
- Oven: Increase the oven temperature to 400°F (200°C). Place the glazed ribs back on the baking sheet and bake for 10-15 minutes, or until the glaze is sticky and caramelized. Brush with more glaze halfway through.
- Grill: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Place the glazed ribs on the grill and cook for 10-15 minutes, turning occasionally and brushing with more glaze, until the glaze is sticky and caramelized and the ribs have beautiful grill marks.
Step 9: Rest and Serve: Remove the ribs from the oven or grill and let them rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in more tender and flavorful ribs.
Step 10: Slice and Serve: Slice the ribs between the bones and serve hot. Drizzle with any extra glaze from the saucepan for added flavor.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
- Incredible Flavor: The combination of smoky spices and sweet honey creates a complex and irresistible flavor profile.
- Fall-Off-The-Bone Tender: Baking the ribs low and slow ensures they are incredibly tender and juicy.
- Versatile: Perfect for any occasion, from casual family dinners to backyard barbecues.
- Easy to Customize: Adjust the amount of spice or sweetness to suit your personal preferences.
Serving Suggestions:
- Creamy Mac and Cheese
- Golden French Fries
- Cornbread
- Garlic Bread
- Coleslaw
- Potato Salad
- Fresh Green Salad
Tips:
- For a smokier flavor, finish the ribs on the grill over indirect heat.
- Don’t skip the resting period – it’s essential for juicy ribs.
- Double the glaze recipe if you like extra sauce for serving.
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure the ribs are cooked to a safe internal temperature (190-205°F or 88-96°C).
- For easier cleanup, spray the foil-lined baking sheet with non-stick cooking spray before placing the ribs on it.
Preparation Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 2.5 – 3 hours
Total Time: Approximately 3 – 3.5 hours
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
(Note: Nutritional information will vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes.)
- Calories: 650
- Protein: 45g
- Sodium: 800mg
Conclusion:
These BBQ Ribs with Smoky Honey Glaze are a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. The combination of tender, flavorful ribs and a sticky, caramelized glaze is simply irresistible. Whether you’re a seasoned pitmaster or a beginner cook, this recipe is easy to follow and yields impressive results every time. Enjoy!
Questions and Answers:
Q1: Can I use a different type of ribs?
A: Yes, you can use different types of ribs, such as baby back ribs or spare ribs. However, cooking times may vary, so adjust accordingly. Baby back ribs generally require less cooking time than spare ribs.
Q2: Can I make the glaze ahead of time?
A: Absolutely! The glaze can be made up to a few days in advance and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Simply reheat it gently before using.
Q3: I don’t have smoked paprika. Can I use regular paprika?
A: While smoked paprika adds a distinctive smoky flavor, you can substitute regular paprika in a pinch. However, the flavor will not be quite the same. You might consider adding a dash of liquid smoke to compensate.
Q4: Can I freeze leftover ribs?
A: Yes, leftover ribs can be frozen for up to 2-3 months. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and then in foil to prevent freezer burn. Thaw them in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Q5: How do I reheat the ribs?
A: There are several ways to reheat the ribs:
- Oven: Wrap the ribs in foil and bake at 300°F (150°C) until heated through.
- Microwave: Microwave the ribs on medium power until heated through. Be careful not to overheat them, or they may become dry.
- Grill: Reheat the ribs on the grill over low heat, turning occasionally, until heated through.
