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Melt-in-Your-Mouth Oven Baked Barbecue Ribs: A Culinary Delight

When it comes to comfort food that warms the heart and satisfies the palate, few dishes can rival a plate of tender, melt-in-your-mouth barbecue ribs. While traditional preparations often involve meticulous smoking and grilling, we’re here to explore an equally delicious, but far simpler method: oven-baked ribs. This recipe delivers all the succulent flavour and rich texture you’d expect from a barbecue feast, right from the comfort of your own kitchen.

The Perfect Rib Selection

Before diving into the cooking process, it’s essential to choose the right type of ribs. There are primarily two varieties you’ll come across: spare ribs and baby back ribs. Spare ribs are meatier and tend to have a stronger flavour, while baby back ribs are leaner and more tender. For this recipe, we recommend going with baby back ribs, as they tend to fall off the bone beautifully when cooked correctly.

Ingredients

For our melt-in-your-mouth oven-baked barbecue ribs, you’ll need the following ingredients:

For the Rub:

• 2 racks of baby back ribs
• 2 tablespoons brown sugar
• 1 tablespoon paprika
• 1 tablespoon onion powder
• 1 tablespoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon mustard powder

For the Barbecue Sauce:

• 1 cup barbecue sauce (store-bought or homemade)
• 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar (for an added tang)
• 1 tablespoon honey (optional, for a touch of sweetness)

Preparation

1. Preheat the Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 150°C (300°F). A low and slow cooking process is crucial for tender, flavourful ribs.

2. Prepare the Ribs: Remove the membrane from the back of the ribs. This thin layer can inhibit flavour penetration and texture. To do this, slide a knife under the membrane and gently pull it off using a paper towel for a better grip.

3. Create the Rub: In a bowl, combine all the dry rub ingredients. Rub this mixture generously over both sides of the ribs, ensuring an even coating. For optimal flavour, let the ribs rest for at least an hour, or ideally overnight in the fridge.

Baking the Ribs

1. Wrap and Bake: Place the seasoned ribs on a large piece of aluminium foil, bone side down. Seal the foil tightly to create a packet, trapping in moisture during the cooking process. For added flavour, you can also add a splash of apple cider or beer in the packet before sealing.

2. Slow Cook: Transfer the wrapped ribs to the preheated oven and bake for approximately 2.5 to 3 hours. The key here is patience; the longer you cook them at a low temperature, the more tender they will become.

Finishing Touches

1. Add the Sauce: Once the ribs are tender, carefully remove them from the oven and increase the temperature to 200°C (400°F). Open the foil (watching out for steam) and brush a generous amount of barbecue sauce over the ribs. If you like a bit of added kick, mix in the apple cider vinegar and honey with the sauce before smothering.

2. Caramelise: Return the ribs to the oven uncovered for an additional 10-15 minutes. This step will caramelise the sauce, giving it a sticky glaze that elevates the flavour and presentation.

The Grand Unveiling

After the ribs have beautifully caramelised, remove them from the oven and let them rest for about 5 minutes. Serve with extra barbecue sauce on the side, and accompany your dish with classic sides such as coleslaw, cornbread, or potato salad.

Conclusion

This melt-in-your-mouth oven-baked barbecue ribs recipe is not just about quick preparation; it’s about creating a comforting and flavourful experience that can be enjoyed by family and friends. Whether you’re hosting a weekend gathering or simply treating yourself to a delightful meal, these ribs promise to impress. So gather your ingredients, summon your appetite, and prepare for a barbecue experience that’s sure to linger in your memory long after the plates are cleared!