Fall Off The Bone Ribs

Nothing beats the satisfaction of biting into tender, flavorful ribs that practically fall off the bone. Achieving this level of perfection is easier than you might think. In this article, we’ll guide you through a tantalizing recipe for Fall Off The Bone Ribs, complete with a list of ingredients, step-by-step instructions, valuable tips, and answers to common questions. Get ready to impress your family and friends with these irresistible ribs!

Ingredients:

For the Ribs:

• 2 racks of baby back ribs
• 2 tablespoons brown sugar
• 2 tablespoons paprika
• 1 tablespoon garlic powder
• 1 tablespoon onion powder
• 1 tablespoon salt
• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to your preferred level of spiciness)
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/2 cup apple cider vinegar
• 1/2 cup apple juice or apple cider
• 1/4 cup barbecue sauce (optional, for basting)

For the BBQ Sauce (optional):

• 1 cup ketchup
• 1/2 cup brown sugar
• 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
• 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• Salt and black pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Ribs:

• Start by removing the membrane from the back of the ribs. This will help the seasonings penetrate the meat better and make the ribs more tender. Use a butter knife or a paper towel to grip the membrane and pull it off.

1. Make the Dry Rub:

• In a small bowl, combine the brown sugar, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, black pepper, cayenne pepper, dried thyme, and dried oregano to create your dry rub.

1. Season the Ribs:

• Rub the dry spice mixture generously all over the ribs, ensuring they are well coated on both sides. Let them sit for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to penetrate the meat.

1. Preheat the Oven:

• Preheat your oven to 275°F (135°C).

1. Cook the Ribs:

• Place the seasoned ribs on a baking sheet lined with aluminum foil or parchment paper. Pour the apple cider vinegar and apple juice (or cider) over the ribs. Cover tightly with another sheet of aluminum foil.
• Bake the ribs in the preheated oven for 2.5 to 3 hours or until they are tender and cooked through.

1. Optional: Add BBQ Sauce:

• If you prefer your ribs with BBQ sauce, baste them with your favorite barbecue sauce during the last 30 minutes of cooking. Apply multiple coats for a glossy finish.

1. Rest and Serve:

• Once cooked to perfection, remove the ribs from the oven, let them rest for a few minutes, then slice them between the bones. Serve hot and enjoy the fall-off-the-bone goodness!

Tips:

• Ensure that the dry rub is applied evenly for consistent flavor throughout the ribs.
• If you have more time, you can marinate the ribs in the dry rub overnight in the refrigerator for even more intense flavor.
• Adjust the level of cayenne pepper to suit your spice preference.

How to Store:

• Store any leftover ribs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

How to Freeze:

• To freeze cooked ribs, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, and place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be frozen for up to 2-3 months. To reheat, thaw them in the refrigerator and warm them in the oven or on a grill.

FAQs:

Q: Can I use spare ribs instead of baby back ribs?
A: Yes, spare ribs can be used in this recipe, but they may require a slightly longer cooking time due to their size and thickness.

Q: Can I make these ribs on a grill instead of in the oven?
A: Absolutely! You can follow the same seasoning and cooking instructions and use indirect grilling on a barbecue grill for that smoky flavor.

Q: What is the purpose of the apple cider vinegar and apple juice?
A: They help tenderize the meat and infuse it with a hint of sweetness and acidity. This contributes to the tenderness and flavor of the ribs.

With this delectable Fall Off The Bone Ribs recipe, you’ll master the art of creating irresistibly tender and flavorful ribs that will have your family and guests coming back for more. Whether you choose to serve them with or without BBQ sauce, these ribs are bound to be a crowd-pleaser at your next gathering. Enjoy!