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Ribs are synonymous with backyard barbecues, family gatherings, and indulgent comfort food. While grilling and smoking are classic methods for preparing ribs, not everyone has the equipment or time to spend outdoors tending to a grill. Thankfully, oven-baked ribs are here to save the day. With the right technique, you can achieve tender, flavorful, fall-off-the-bone ribs from the comfort of your kitchen—no grill required.
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll take you through everything you need to know to prepare oven-baked ribs that will leave everyone asking for seconds. From choosing the right cut of ribs to seasoning, baking, and perfecting that sticky glaze, this recipe has you covered.
Why Oven-Baked Ribs?
Cooking ribs in the oven might not sound as exciting as grilling or smoking, but it offers several distinct advantages:
- Controlled Cooking Environment: Ovens provide consistent, even heat, ensuring perfectly cooked ribs every time.
- Ease and Convenience: No need to monitor a smoker or worry about weather conditions.
- Versatility: The oven allows you to experiment with a variety of rubs, marinades, and sauces.
- Year-Round Enjoyment: Rain, snow, or shine, oven-baked ribs are always an option.
Choosing the Right Ribs
There are several types of pork ribs, each with unique qualities. Understanding these options will help you decide what works best for your needs:
- Baby Back Ribs:
- Taken from the upper part of the ribcage.
- Smaller, leaner, and more tender than other types.
- Ideal for quick cooking and great for beginners.
- Spare Ribs:
- Larger and meatier, taken from the belly area.
- Contain more fat, which adds flavor, but require longer cooking.
- Great for those who enjoy a heartier rib experience.
- St. Louis-Style Ribs:
- A trimmed version of spare ribs, with cartilage and breastbone removed for a uniform shape.
- Easier to handle and cook evenly.
For this recipe, we’ll focus on baby back ribs, though the method works for other types with slight adjustments to cooking time.
Ingredients You’ll Need
For the Ribs:
- 2 racks of baby back ribs (approximately 4 pounds)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Dry Rub:
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon chili powder (optional, for heat)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon ground black pepper
For the Sauce (optional but highly recommended):
- 1 cup barbecue sauce (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1 teaspoon apple cider vinegar
Step-by-Step Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Ribs
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