Fall Off The Bone Ribs are tender and juicy, making them the ultimate comfort food! With a sweet and tangy sauce, they practically melt in your mouth.
Watching these ribs slide right off the bone always gets a laugh. You’ll want to keep a napkin handy—things can get a bit messy! 😄
What I love most is how easy they are to make in the oven or on the grill. Just pop them in, relax, and enjoy the delicious smell filling your kitchen—it’s the best part!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Baby Back Ribs: These ribs are known for their tenderness. If you can’t find baby back ribs, spare ribs can work too, but they may take a bit longer to cook due to their thickness.
Brown Sugar: This adds sweetness and helps create a caramelized crust. If you’re out of brown sugar, you can substitute with granulated sugar and a touch of molasses to mimic the flavor.
Smoked Paprika: It gives a nice smoky flavor. If you want to avoid it, regular paprika or even chili powder can be a good alternative, although you may miss that smoky note.
Barbecue Sauce: Use your favorite store-bought brand or make your own if you prefer a custom flavor. For a less sweet option, try a vinegar-based sauce.
How Do You Remove the Membrane from Ribs?
Removing the membrane is an important step for achieving tender ribs. Here’s how to do it:
- Flip the ribs over so the bony side is facing up.
- Using a sharp knife, carefully lift the edge of the membrane at one end of the rack.
- Grab the membrane with a paper towel for a better grip and pull it off in one piece.
- Trim any excess bits of membrane that may be left behind.
This helps the seasoning penetrate the meat better and allows for more even cooking. Plus, it enhances the overall texture of the finished ribs!
What’s the Best Way to Bake Ribs for Tenderness?
Baking ribs low and slow is key for that tender “fall off the bone” effect. Here’s a simple method:
- **Preheat**: Always start with a low oven temperature (275°F) to break down the collagen in the meat over time.
- **Wrap**: Wrapping the ribs in aluminum foil traps moisture, preventing them from drying out during the long bake.
- **Time**: Bake for at least 3.5 to 4 hours. The longer, the better for tenderness! Check for doneness with a fork; it should easily pull away from the bone.
Following these tips will help you create mouthwatering ribs every time!
Fall Off The Bone Ribs
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Ribs:
- 2 racks of pork baby back ribs (about 4 pounds total)
For the Dry Rub:
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
- 1 tablespoon chili powder
- 2 teaspoons garlic powder
- 2 teaspoons onion powder
- 1 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for a little heat)
For the Glaze:
- 1 cup barbecue sauce (store-bought or homemade)
- 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
For Garnish:
- Fresh thyme or parsley, for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare, plus 3.5 to 4 hours to bake. You’ll be letting the ribs cook slowly, ensuring they become tender and juicy. Perfect for a lazy weekend barbecue or family dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 275°F (135°C). This low temperature will help cook the ribs evenly, making them super tender.
2. Prepare the Ribs:
Carefully remove the membrane from the back of the ribs. This is important so the flavors can really soak in. Pat the ribs dry with paper towels to remove any excess moisture.
3. Make the Dry Rub:
In a mixing bowl, combine the brown sugar, smoked paprika, chili powder, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, salt, and cayenne pepper. This blend will give your ribs a delicious flavor.
4. Season the Ribs:
Rub the seasoning mixture evenly over both sides of the ribs. Let them sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes, or if you prefer, refrigerate them overnight for even more flavor!
5. Wrap the Ribs:
Wrap the ribs tightly in aluminum foil and place them on a baking sheet. If you want an extra layer of moisture, drizzle a couple of tablespoons of apple cider vinegar inside the foil before sealing it.
6. Bake:
Place the foil-wrapped ribs in the oven and let them bake for 3.5 to 4 hours. You want them to become really tender, and you’ll know they’re done when the meat pulls away easily from the bone.
7. Brush with BBQ Sauce:
Remove the ribs from the oven and unwrap the foil carefully. Brush your favorite barbecue sauce on both sides generously!
8. Increase the Oven Temperature:
Turn the oven up to 425°F (220°C) and place the ribs back in, uncovered, for about 10-15 minutes. This step helps the sauce caramelize for a sticky, delicious glaze.
9. Let Them Rest:
After you take them out, let the ribs rest for about 5 minutes. This helps them stay juicy when you start slicing!
10. Serve and Enjoy:
Cut the ribs between the bones into portions and garnish with fresh thyme or parsley if you like. Serve hot and get ready to enjoy those fall-off-the-bone ribs!
This recipe will give you perfectly tender ribs with a rich flavor and a beautiful caramelized BBQ glaze. Enjoy with your favorite sides for a hearty meal!
Can I Use a Different Type of Ribs?
Absolutely! While baby back ribs are preferred for tenderness, you can use spare ribs or St. Louis-style ribs. Just be aware that cooking times may vary slightly depending on the thickness of the meat.
Can I Make These Ribs on the Grill?
Yes, you can! After wrapping the ribs in foil, cook them on a grill over indirect heat for about the same time (3.5 to 4 hours). Once tender, brush with barbecue sauce and grill for an additional 10-15 minutes to caramelize.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover ribs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, wrap them in foil and warm in the oven at 250°F (120°C) until heated through, or microwave them in short bursts.
Can I Prepare This Recipe in Advance?
Yes! You can season the ribs a day ahead and keep them in the fridge overnight. When you’re ready to cook, just follow the baking instructions. This allows for even deeper flavor.
