Pork Spare Ribs
Easy pork spare ribs recipe with BBQ sauce — learn how to cook tender, juicy, fall-off-the-bone ribs in the oven or on the grill.
Ingredients
- 1.5–2 kg (3–4 lbs) pork spare ribs
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 1 cup barbecue sauce (store-bought or homemade)
- 2 tbsp soy sauce
- 2 tbsp honey or brown sugar
- 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar (or lemon juice)
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp salt
- ½ tsp chili powder (optional, for heat)
Instructions
Prepare The Ribs
- Remove the thin membrane from the back of the ribs (this helps them cook more tender).
- Rinse the ribs under cold water and pat them dry with paper towels.
Make The Marinade
- In a bowl, mix barbecue sauce, soy sauce, honey, vinegar, garlic, onion, paprika, black pepper, and salt.
- Brush or rub the marinade generously over the ribs.
- Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours (or overnight for best flavor).
Preheat The Oven Or Grill
- Oven method: Preheat to 160°C (320°F).
- Grill method: Preheat the grill to medium heat.
Cook The Ribs
- Oven: Place the ribs on a baking tray lined with foil. Cover with another sheet of foil and bake for 2–2½ hours until tender.
- Grill: Cook over indirect heat for 1½–2 hours, turning occasionally and basting with extra sauce.
Caramelize The Sauce
- Remove foil and brush with more barbecue sauce.
- Bake or grill uncovered for another 15–20 minutes until the sauce becomes sticky and slightly charred.
Serve
- Let the ribs rest for 5–10 minutes before cutting into individual pieces.
- Serve with coleslaw, roasted potatoes, or corn on the cob.