Smoky BBQ Ribs – Juicy, Tender, and Packed with Flavor

Introduction
Bring the taste of a backyard barbecue to your kitchen with these smoky BBQ ribs! Juicy, tender, and coated in a sticky-sweet glaze, these ribs are slow-cooked to perfection and caramelized for an irresistible smoky flavor. Perfect for gatherings or a weekend treat, this recipe is easy to follow and always delivers crowd-pleasing results.

Ingredients

For the ribs:

• 2 racks of baby back or spare ribs
• 2 tablespoons olive oil

For the dry rub:

• 2 tablespoons brown sugar
• 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
• 1 tablespoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt
• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)

For the barbecue glaze:

• 1 cup barbecue sauce (homemade or store-bought)
• 2 tablespoons honey or maple syrup
• 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
• 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce 

Instructions

Step 1: Prep the Ribs

1. Preheat your oven to 275°F (135°C).
2. Remove the membrane from the underside of the ribs for maximum tenderness. Use a knife to loosen one corner, then pull it off using a paper towel for grip.
3. Rub olive oil over both sides of the ribs to help the seasoning stick.

Step 2: Season the Ribs

1. In a bowl, mix together all the dry rub ingredients.
2. Generously apply the dry rub to both sides of the ribs, pressing it in to ensure even coverage.

Step 3: Slow-Cook the Ribs

1. Wrap each rack tightly in aluminum foil to lock in moisture.
2. Place the wrapped ribs on a baking sheet and bake for 3 hours, or until the ribs are tender and the meat begins to pull back from the bones.

Step 4: Make the BBQ Glaze

1. While the ribs are baking, combine the barbecue sauce, honey, apple cider vinegar, and Worcestershire sauce in a small saucepan.
2. Heat over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally, until the glaze thickens slightly. Set aside.

Step 5: Glaze and Finish on the Grill (or Broil)

1. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat, or set your oven to broil.
2. Carefully remove the ribs from the foil and place them directly on the grill (or on a baking sheet if broiling). Brush the ribs generously with the BBQ glaze.
3. Grill or broil for 5–10 minutes, flipping and basting with more glaze, until the sauce caramelizes and becomes sticky.

Step 6: Rest and Serve

1. Let the ribs rest for 5 minutes before slicing into portions.
2. Serve with your favorite sides, such as baked beans, coleslaw, or cornbread, and extra barbecue sauce for dipping.

Tips for Perfect BBQ Ribs

• Use fresh, high-quality ribs for the best flavor and texture.
• If grilling, add soaked wood chips for an authentic smoky flavor.
• Adjust the cayenne pepper in the rub and the sweetness in the glaze to suit your taste preferences.

Conclusion
These smoky BBQ ribs are the ultimate combination of tender meat, bold spices, and a caramelized glaze. Whether you’re making them for a backyard gathering or a cozy family meal, this recipe is guaranteed to impress. Easy to prepare and full of smoky goodness, these ribs will have everyone coming back for seconds.

Call to Action
Try this recipe for your next barbecue night and share your experience in the comments below! Don’t forget to tag us on social media with your photos. Save this recipe for all your future BBQ cravings – it’s sure to become a staple in your kitchen!