Oven Cooked Baby Back Ribs: A Savory Symphony of Tenderness and Flavor
Embark on a culinary journey with Oven Cooked Baby Back Ribs, a tantalizing dish that elevates the art of rib preparation to new heights. From the carefully selected seasoning to the slow roasting in the oven, each step is a masterstroke, resulting in succulent ribs that practically fall off the bone.
The process begins with a meticulous preparation of the baby back ribs. With precision, we remove the membrane, leaving a smooth canvas ready to absorb layers of flavors. We delicately pat-dry the ribs, ensuring they are perfectly primed for the seasoning journey.
A surprising twist comes in the form of yellow mustard, applied to both sides of the ribs.
This unassuming ingredient serves a dual purpose; it acts as a tenderizer while leaving no trace of its taste behind. It's a subtle touch that sets the stage for the symphony of flavors to unfold.
Not rubbing in the seasonings helps maintain the natural juices of the meat. Rubbing in salt, particularly, can draw out moisture, enhancing flavor on the surface without compromising tenderness.
Generously sprinkle the seasoning blend, creating a harmonious marriage of garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, black pepper, white pepper, and season salt, without rubbing it in. Ensuring that each spice plays its distinct note creates a melody of flavors rather than a uniform blend.
Wrapped snugly in foil, the seasoned ribs enter the oven for a slow roast at a gentle 245°F (120°C). This unhurried cooking process allows the flavors to mingle, the meat to tenderize, and the anticipation to build.
After two hours, carefully open the foil to reveal the transformation of the ribs.
Moreover, wrapping the ribs tightly in foil helps create a controlled cooking environment, ensuring the ribs remain moist and tender during the slow roasting process.
Adding brown sugar, honey, and butter introduces a sweet interlude that balances the savory notes. Tent the foil to ensure the sweetness envelops the ribs without direct contact.
Those seeking an extra layer of indulgence can add a glossy coat of BBQ sauce in the final act. Raise the oven temperature, and cook the ribs until the sauce transforms into a sticky glaze, creating a grand finale to this culinary masterpiece.
The low and slow cooking method at 245°F (120°C) is recommended for optimal tenderness. Higher temperatures may risk drying out the meat.
Oven Cooked Baby Back Ribs is not just a dish; it's a culinary experience. It's the embodiment of patience, precision, and a deep understanding of the art of flavor. With each bite, savor the tenderness, revel in the complexity of spices, and appreciate the culinary prowess that went into creating this symphony of taste.
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Oven Cooked Baby Back Ribs
- Total Time: 3 hr 40 mins
- Yield: 6–8 servings 1x
Description
Savor perfection with our oven-cooked baby back ribs—fall-off-the-bone tenderness and mouthwatering flavors.
Ingredients
- 1 slab baby back ribs
- ½ cup yellow mustard
- 2 tsp season salt
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp white pepper
- 1 cup brown sugar
- 6 tbsp unsalted butter
- 2 tbsp honey
- 1/2 cup BBQ sauce (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 245°F (120°C).
Prepare the Ribs:
- Clean ribs and remove the membrane from the back, ensuring a smooth surface.
- Pat ribs dry with paper towels.
- Apply a thin layer of yellow mustard to both sides of the ribs to help tenderize the meat without imparting a mustard flavor.
Season the Ribs:
- Sprinkle garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, black pepper, white pepper on both sides of the ribs without rubbing them in.
- Top with season salt without rubbing it in.
Initial Cooking:
- Wrap the seasoned ribs tightly in foil and place on a baking sheet.
- Cook in the preheated oven for 2 hours.
Add Sweetness:
- After two hours, carefully open the foil.
- Sprinkle brown sugar, drizzle honey, and add butter evenly over the ribs.
- Tent the foil to avoid direct contact with the meat.
Continued Cooking:
- Return the ribs to the oven for an additional hour.
Optional BBQ Glaze:
- If desired, add BBQ sauce evenly to the ribs.
- Increase the oven temperature to 425°F (220°C) and cook for an additional 10 minutes until the sauce becomes sticky.
Serve and Enjoy!
Notes
Equipment
Foil
Baking Sheet
Paper towels
Basting/Pastry Brush
Notes
- Do not preseason the ribs for longer than 2 hours to maintain optimal tenderness.
- Bring the ribs to room temperature before baking.
- Do not rub in the seasonings to prevent drying out the meat, particularly the salt.
- Prep Time: 30 mins
- Cook Time: 3 hr 10 mins
