Experience the succulent delight of country-style pork ribs, a dish that promises to ignite your taste buds with every bite. Perfectly seasoned and slow-cooked to ultimate tenderness, this ribs recipe is your go-to for impressively easy, home-cooked meals. Join the many who have discovered the joy of cooking these delightful ribs, every step of the way.
Growing up, weekends at my grandmother’s house were synonymous with the mouth-watering aroma of ribs slow roasting in the kitchen. Her secret? A blend of simple spices and an abundance of love. There’s something heartwarming about replicating her recipe today, reminiscing about family gatherings and the laughter shared around the dining table.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This recipe is meant for those who appreciate simplicity paired with bold flavors. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner, you’ll value how effortlessly these ribs come together. The slow cooking method guarantees tender meat while the spice rub elevates the natural flavors, ensuring a feast that everyone will adore. Its versatility makes it perfect for a casual weeknight dinner or a special weekend barbecue.
Recipe Steps
Step 1
Begin by preheating your oven to 300°F (150°C). This low temperature ensures that the ribs cook slowly, allowing the meat to absorb the spices better and become tender.
Step 2
In a small bowl, mix together garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Rub this mixture thoroughly over the ribs, ensuring an even coating. This spice blend forms the base flavor profile for your ribs.
Step 3
Place the ribs in a baking dish, cover with foil, and cook for approximately 2 ½ hours. This duration allows the ribs to become tender and juicy.
Step 4
After cooking, remove the foil, increase the oven temperature to 375°F (190°C), and bake for an additional 20-30 minutes. This step gives the ribs a delightful, slightly crispy exterior.
Step 5
Once done, let the ribs rest for a few minutes before serving. This resting time allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring every bite is as flavorful as possible.
Storage Options
Leftover ribs can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For freezing, wrap the ribs in aluminum foil and place them in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. When reheating, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and heat in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) until warm.
Variations & Substitutions
For a spicy kick, add cayenne pepper to the spice mix. If you’re catering to dietary restrictions, substitute a low-sodium soy sauce or tamari in place of salt. For a different flavor profile, experiment with honey or maple syrup for a sweeter glaze or use apple cider vinegar for a tangy undertone.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different cut of meat for this recipe? Yes, this recipe is quite versatile. While it’s designed for country-style ribs, you can substitute with other cuts like spare ribs or even beef ribs. Adjust cooking times accordingly, as different cuts may require more or less time to reach the desired tenderness.
Can I cook these ribs on a grill instead of an oven? Absolutely! For grilling, first prep the ribs as instructed, then place them on the grill over medium heat. Cook each side for about 15 minutes, periodically basting with your favorite barbecue sauce for added flavor and moisture.
What side dishes pair well with these ribs? Classic sides such as coleslaw, cornbread, and baked beans complement ribs perfectly. For a lighter option, consider a fresh green salad or grilled vegetables to balance the richness of the ribs.
Country-Style Ribs Recipe
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 pounds country-style ribs bone-in for extra flavor
- 1.5 cups barbecue sauce your favorite brand
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt adjust to taste
- 0.5 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
Instructions
Preparation Steps
- Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
- Rub the ribs with olive oil, salt, pepper, and garlic powder.
- Place ribs in a baking dish and cover tightly with foil.
- Bake for 1.5 to 2 hours or until ribs are tender.
- Brush ribs with barbecue sauce and bake uncovered for an additional 30 minutes.
