Barbecued Sparerib Appetizers
Juicy spareribs glazed with a tangy, sweet barbecue sauce, perfect as appetizers for gatherings or family dinners, offering bold flavors and tender bites.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Place spareribs in a 2-quart glass utility dish.
- Combine catsup, cream-style horseradish, brown sugar, vinegar, Worcestershire sauce, sliced onions, water, celery seed, salt, pepper, and garlic powder to make the sauce.
- Pour the sauce over the ribs.
- Cover and microwave for 45 minutes.
- Turn and rearrange ribs every 10 minutes during cooking.
Tips & Substitutions
For a spicier kick, consider adding a teaspoon of hot sauce to the sauce mixture. If you don't have horseradish, a touch of mustard can provide a similar tang. When preparing the spareribs, you can remove the membrane from the back for more tender meat. This dish can be made ahead and stored in the fridge overnight to enhance flavors.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these barbecued sparerib appetizers as a party snack or game-day treat. They pair wonderfully with coleslaw and cornbread for a complete meal. For a refreshing side, consider a simple cucumber salad. These ribs are also a great addition to a summer barbecue spread alongside dishes like Broccoli Puff Casserole.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover ribs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a microwave-safe dish, cover with a damp paper towel, and heat for 2-3 minutes, or until warmed through. Alternatively, you can reheat them in the oven at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Barbecued Sparerib Appetizers contains roughly 487 calories, with 9g protein, 77g carbohydrates, and 9g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (20% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 927mg per serving (40% 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 a different type of meat for this recipe?
Yes, you can substitute spareribs with baby back ribs or even chicken wings. Adjust the cooking time accordingly; chicken may require less time, while baby back ribs may need similar cooking methods. Just ensure the sauce is thoroughly covering the meat for the best flavor.
How can I make the ribs more tender?
To achieve tender ribs, you can marinate them in the sauce for several hours or overnight before cooking. Additionally, cooking them covered in the microwave or oven at a low temperature for longer can help break down the connective tissues, making them more tender and flavorful.
Is it possible to grill these ribs instead of microwaving?
Absolutely! After microwaving the ribs for initial cooking, you can finish them on the grill for added flavor and char. Simply preheat your grill, brush the ribs with extra sauce, and grill for about 10-15 minutes, turning occasionally until caramelized and heated through.
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).