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Barbecue Ribs with Homemade BBQ Sauce

Barbecue Ribs with Homemade BBQ Sauce
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Juicy, tender barbecue ribs slow-cooked to perfection and glazed with a rich, homemade BBQ sauce that balances sweet, smoky, and tangy flavors. This recipe is easy to make with simple ingredients and versatile for any occasion, delivering succulent ribs with a delicious, sticky finish that melts in your mouth.

Ingredients

Scale

Ribs and Dry Rub

  • 2 racks pork ribs (baby back or spare ribs, about 3–4 pounds total)
  • 1/4 cup brown sugar
  • 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

Homemade BBQ Sauce

  • 1 cup ketchup
  • 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
  • 2–3 tablespoons honey or molasses
  • 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 tablespoon mustard (Dijon or yellow)
  • Optional: 1-2 teaspoons hot sauce (adjust to taste)

Instructions

  1. Step 1: Prepare the Ribs – Remove the thin membrane from the back of the ribs for better texture and flavor absorption. Pat the ribs dry with paper towels. In a bowl, mix brown sugar, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Generously rub this dry mix all over the ribs, coating evenly to create a flavorful base.
  2. Step 2: Slow Cook or Preheat the Grill – For slow cooking, tightly wrap the ribs in foil and bake at 275°F (135°C) for 2.5 to 3 hours until tender. If grilling, preheat your grill to medium-low heat and cook the ribs evenly without burning, turning as necessary.
  3. Step 3: Make the Homemade BBQ Sauce – Combine ketchup, apple cider vinegar, honey or molasses, Worcestershire sauce, mustard, and optional hot sauce in a saucepan. Simmer over medium heat, stirring occasionally until the sauce thickens to your desired consistency and the flavors meld beautifully.
  4. Step 4: Glaze and Finish the Ribs – Once ribs are tender, remove them from the oven or grill. Brush generously with the homemade BBQ sauce. Return ribs to heat for 10-15 minutes to caramelize the sauce and develop a sticky glaze that seals in flavor.
  5. Step 5: Rest and Serve – Allow the ribs to rest for a few minutes to let juices redistribute. Slice between the bones, serve hot with extra BBQ sauce on the side, and enjoy!

Notes

  • Membrane Matters: Removing the membrane ensures tender ribs and better seasoning absorption.
  • Low and Slow: Cooking ribs gently at low temperatures makes them incredibly soft and juicy.
  • Sauce Simmer: Allow the BBQ sauce to simmer long enough to thicken and deepen flavor.
  • Baste at the End: Apply BBQ sauce near the end to prevent burning and keep the glaze sticky.
  • Resting Time: Always rest ribs briefly before slicing to keep them juicy.

Nutrition

Keywords: barbecue ribs, homemade BBQ sauce, slow cooked ribs, grilled ribs, smoky ribs, sweet and tangy BBQ sauce, tender ribs

Find it online: https://eazyummy.com/barbecue-ribs-with-homemade-bbq-sauce/