Sweet and Sticky BBQ Ribs

Sweet and Sticky BBQ Ribs

Ingredients:

For the Ribs:

• 2 racks of pork baby back ribs (about 4-5 pounds)
• 1/4 cup (60g) brown sugar
• 1 tablespoon paprika
• 1 tablespoon garlic powder
• 1 tablespoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon ground black pepper
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional for heat)
• 1/2 teaspoon mustard powder

For the BBQ Sauce:

• 2 cups (480ml) ketchup
• 1/2 cup (120ml) apple cider vinegar
• 1/2 cup (120ml) brown sugar
• 1/4 cup (60ml) honey
• 1/4 cup (60ml) molasses
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon liquid smoke (optional for a smoky flavor)

Instructions:

Prepare the Ribs:

1. Preheat the Oven:
   • Preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. Remove the Membrane:
   • Remove the thin membrane from the back of the ribs. Use a knife to loosen one end, then grab it with a paper towel and pull it off.
3. Mix the Dry Rub:
   • In a small bowl, combine the brown sugar, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, salt, chili powder, cayenne pepper, and mustard powder.
4. Season the Ribs:
   • Rub the spice mixture evenly over both sides of the ribs. Make sure they are well-coated.
5. Wrap and Bake:
   • Wrap each rack of ribs tightly in aluminum foil and place them on a baking sheet. Bake in the preheated oven for 2.5 to 3 hours, or until the ribs are tender.

Make the BBQ Sauce:

1. Combine Ingredients:
   • In a medium saucepan, combine the ketchup, apple cider vinegar, brown sugar, honey, molasses, Worcestershire sauce, soy sauce, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, salt, and liquid smoke (if using).
2. Cook the Sauce:
   • Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce the heat and simmer for 20-30 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens.

Finish the Ribs:

1. Preheat the Grill:
   • Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
2. Grill the Ribs:
   • Remove the ribs from the foil and place them on the grill. Brush generously with the BBQ sauce. Grill for 5-10 minutes, turning and basting with more sauce, until the sauce is caramelized and sticky.
3. Serve:
   • Remove the ribs from the grill and let them rest for a few minutes. Slice between the bones and serve with extra BBQ sauce on the side.

Enjoy these sweet and sticky BBQ ribs, perfect for a family gathering or a summer cookout!