Sticky and Tender BBQ Ribs: The Ultimate Finger-Licking Recipe

Looking for the perfect BBQ ribs that are tender, juicy, and covered in a sticky, flavorful sauce? These Sticky and Tender BBQ Ribs are packed with smoky, sweet, and tangy flavors that will make every bite irresistible. Whether you’re grilling for a weekend barbecue or making them in the oven for an easy dinner, this recipe will ensure your ribs are a hit every time!

Ingredients:

• For the Ribs:
  • 2 racks of baby back ribs (about 4-5 pounds)
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1 teaspoon brown sugar
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
• For the BBQ Sauce:
  • 1 cup BBQ sauce (your favorite brand or homemade)
  • 3 tablespoons honey
  • 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
  • 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
  • 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground cayenne pepper (optional for heat)
• For Garnishing:
  • Fresh cilantro or parsley, chopped (optional)
  • Sesame seeds (optional)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Ribs:

• Preheat the oven to 300°F (150°C).
• Remove the membrane from the back of the ribs to ensure they cook more evenly and are more tender.
• Rub the ribs with olive oil and season generously with salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, brown sugar, and ground cumin.

2. Cook the Ribs:

• Place the ribs on a baking sheet lined with foil, then cover them with foil to retain moisture.
• Bake for 2.5 to 3 hours, or until the ribs are tender and the meat is easily pulled away from the bone.

3. Make the BBQ Sauce:

• While the ribs are baking, combine the BBQ sauce, honey, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, and cayenne pepper (if using) in a saucepan.
• Simmer the sauce over medium heat for 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally until the sauce thickens slightly.

4. Glaze the Ribs:

• After baking, remove the ribs from the oven and discard the top layer of foil.
• Brush the ribs with the prepared BBQ sauce, making sure to coat them generously.

5. Final Bake:

• Return the ribs to the oven (uncovered) and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, allowing the sauce to set and become sticky.

6. Garnish and Serve:

• Once the ribs are done, let them rest for a few minutes before slicing them into individual portions.
• Garnish with fresh cilantro or parsley and sprinkle with sesame seeds for an added touch of flavor and crunch.
• Serve with your favorite sides like coleslaw, baked beans, or cornbread.

Why These Sticky BBQ Ribs Are So Amazing:

• Fall-Off-The-Bone Tenderness: Baking the ribs at a low temperature ensures they are incredibly tender and juicy.
• Sweet and Smoky Sauce: The BBQ sauce is enhanced with honey for sweetness, mustard for tang, and Worcestershire sauce for depth, creating a perfectly balanced flavor.
• Simple Ingredients, Big Flavor: You don’t need complicated ingredients to create these tender, flavorful ribs—just a few pantry staples and some patience.

Pro Tips for Perfect Sticky BBQ Ribs:

• Check for Tenderness: The ribs are done when the meat easily pulls away from the bone. You can use a meat thermometer, but the “fork test” is a great way to check for tenderness too.
• Finish on the Grill (Optional): After baking, finish the ribs on the grill to get a nice char and smoky flavor if you prefer that grilled taste.
• Make It Spicy: Add more cayenne pepper to the BBQ sauce if you like a spicier kick.

Ready to try these Sticky and Tender BBQ Ribs?
Follow these steps for the ultimate barbecue ribs that are guaranteed to impress. Perfect for any occasion, these ribs will be a hit at your next cookout, family dinner, or casual gathering!