Can I make these ribs in a slow cooker?

Absolutely! Brown the ribs as directed, then transfer to a slow cooker with the sauce mixture. Cook on low for 6-7 hours or high for 3-4 hours until tender. For the best sauce, still remove it after cooking, skim off fat, blend, and reduce on the stovetop.

Is removing the membrane really necessary?

Yes, it makes a world of difference. The membrane creates a barrier that prevents flavors from penetrating the meat and becomes tough and chewy when cooked. Taking the minute to remove it results in significantly more tender, flavorful ribs.

Can I use spare ribs instead of baby back ribs?

You can, but they'll need more cooking time. Spare ribs are larger and have more connective tissue, so increase the braising time by about 45-60 minutes. They'll be just as delicious with the extra cooking time.

What's the best way to know when the ribs are done?

The meat should be very tender and starting to pull away from the bone. Try twisting a bone slightly—if it moves easily and the meat starts to tear, they're ready. If there's resistance, continue cooking and check again in 15-minute intervals.

Braised Baby Back Ribs with Zesty BBQ Sauce Recipe

Description

A finger-licking, tender, and flavorful dish, these Braised Baby Back Ribs are simmered in a zesty homemade BBQ sauce for a deliciously smoky and tangy flavor combination. Perfect for any gathering or a cozy family dinner, this recipe ensures the ribs are fall-off-the-bone tender and full of bold flavors. Serve them with additional sauce for dipping to create a crowd-pleasing meal.

Ingredients

Units Scale

Zesty BBQ Sauce

3/4 cup ketchup (or tomato sauce)
3/4 cup water
2 tablespoons white wine vinegar
2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
2 tablespoons light brown sugar (not packed)
1 teaspoon kosher salt
1 teaspoon paprika (regular or smoked)
1 teaspoon chili powder
1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (or more to taste)
1 1/2 large yellow onions, sliced, and slices cut into quarters

Braised Baby Back Ribs

2 3/4 to 3 pounds pork baby back (or pork loin back) ribs
1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil (omit if using a nonstick pan)
Kosher salt, to taste
Fresh ground pepper, to taste

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Instructions

Prepare the Zesty BBQ Sauce:
In a medium mixing bowl, combine the ketchup, water, white wine vinegar, Worcestershire sauce, brown sugar, kosher salt, paprika, chili powder, ground black pepper, and cayenne pepper. Stir until the ingredients are well mixed, then add the onions. Set the sauce mixture aside.
Prepare and Season the Ribs:
Remove the membrane from the bone side of the ribs (check online guides for ease). Cut the ribs into individual portions. Pat them dry with a paper towel, then season generously with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper.
Sear the Ribs:
Heat the olive oil in a large heavy skillet or Dutch oven over high heat. Working in two batches, sear the ribs on all sides until browned. Remove the ribs, drain any excess oil or fat from the pan, and set the ribs aside temporarily.
Cook the Ribs in Sauce:
Return the ribs to the skillet or Dutch oven. Pour the prepared BBQ sauce over the ribs, ensuring the ribs are evenly coated. Cover the pan tightly and cook at a low simmer for 1 1/2 to 2 hours, stirring occasionally, until the meat is incredibly tender and practically falling off the bone.
Keep Ribs Warm in the Oven:
Preheat the oven to 225°F. Once the ribs are cooked, transfer them to a covered baking dish and place them in the oven to keep warm.
Finish the BBQ Sauce:
Allow the sauce from the skillet to cool to room temperature. Use a spoon to skim off any grease from the top, then purée the sauce in a blender until smooth. Return the sauce to the skillet, and bring it to a medium boil. Cook and stir frequently for about 15 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened. Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed (you may wish to add more vinegar or salt).
Serve and Enjoy:
Baste the ribs with some of the BBQ sauce before serving. Pass the remaining sauce on the side in small bowls for dipping. Enjoy your deliciously tender ribs!

Notes

Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free Worcestershire sauce to make this recipe fully gluten-free.
Make Ahead: Prepare the ribs and sauce up to 24 hours in advance. Store them separately in the refrigerator and reheat before serving. Warm the ribs in a 350°F oven and heat the sauce on the stovetop over medium heat until hot.

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 serving
Calories: 490
Sugar: 8g
Sodium: 950mg
Fat: 32g
Saturated Fat: 12g
Unsaturated Fat: 20g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 15g
Fiber: 2g
Protein: 38g
Cholesterol: 120mg