Barbecued Ribs - Western
Tender, smoky barbecued ribs coated in a tangy, sweet sauce with a hint of lemon and mustard, perfect for summer barbecues or casual gatherings with friends.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine all ingredients in a saucepan, bring to a boil, and cook uncovered for 5 to 6 minutes.
- Dip the parboiled ribs into the sauce and grill or roast for 40 to 45 minutes, basting often and turning to brown evenly until tender.
Tips & Substitutions
For best results, let the sauce simmer for a bit longer to deepen the flavors. If you don't have vegetable juice cocktail, you can substitute with tomato juice mixed with a splash of lemon juice. For a spicier kick, consider adding some hot sauce or cayenne pepper to the sauce. Make sure to baste the ribs frequently while grilling to lock in moisture and flavor.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the barbecued ribs with classic sides like coleslaw or baked beans for a complete meal. They pair beautifully with cornbread or a refreshing Fat-Free Fruit Cup for a lighter touch. For those who enjoy a kick, a side of Mike'S Barbecue Sauce can add extra flavor. Don’t forget to have plenty of napkins on hand!
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover ribs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, wrap the ribs in aluminum foil and warm them in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 20 minutes or until heated through. You can also microwave them, but be careful not to overcook, as this may dry them out.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Barbecued Ribs - Western contains roughly 438 calories, with 11g protein, 67g carbohydrates, and 17g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (429% of the Daily Value), potassium (70% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (39% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A and iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1079mg per serving (47% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use baby back ribs instead of spareribs?
Yes, baby back ribs can be used in this recipe. They will cook a bit faster due to their smaller size, so adjust the grilling time accordingly, checking for tenderness after 30 minutes.
Is it necessary to parboil the ribs?
Parboiling helps to tenderize the ribs and reduce grilling time. However, you can skip this step if you're short on time; just ensure you grill them long enough to ensure they're fully cooked and tender.
How can I make this recipe spicier?
To add heat to your barbecued ribs, mix in some cayenne pepper or your favorite hot sauce into the barbecue sauce. You could also add chopped jalapeños for an extra kick, balancing well with the sweetness of the brown sugar.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).