Basic Barbecued Spareribs
Tender, smoky barbecued spareribs coated in a sweet and tangy sauce, perfect for outdoor gatherings and satisfying meat lovers seeking bold flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Simmer the spareribs in a large pot with salted water to cover for 45 to 60 minutes, until the meat begins to pull away from the bones.
- In a bowl, combine the tomato sauce, orange juice, minced onion, minced garlic, dry mustard, ginger, brown sugar, black pepper, salt, parsley, and Worcestershire sauce to make the sauce.
- Let the sauce stand for 15 minutes.
- Place the cooked ribs on a deep platter and brush the sauce on both sides.
- Let the ribs stand for 2 hours to absorb the flavors.
- Remove the ribs from the platter.
- Pour the sauce into a cup for basting.
- Cook the ribs on the barbecue, brushing frequently with the sauce, until they reach desired doneness.
Tips & Substitutions
For tender ribs, ensure they simmer long enough in salted water to soften the meat. You can substitute brown sugar with honey or agave for a different sweetness. If you prefer a spicier kick, add cayenne pepper or hot sauce to the sauce mixture. Remember to baste regularly to keep the ribs moist while grilling.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the barbecued spareribs with classic sides like coleslaw, baked beans, or cornbread for a perfect summer meal. They also pair well with watermelon or melon wedges for a refreshing contrast. For a lighter option, consider serving with a vibrant salad or browsing more American recipes for inspiration.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover ribs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, wrap the ribs in aluminum foil and warm them in a preheated oven at 300°F for about 20-30 minutes, or until heated through. This method keeps them juicy and flavorful.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Basic Barbecued Spareribs contains roughly 997 calories, with 48g protein, 240g carbohydrates, and 14g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (351% of the Daily Value), iron (222% of the Daily Value), and calcium (122% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1783mg per serving (78% 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 cut of meat for this recipe?
Yes, you can use baby back ribs or even pork loin if you prefer. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly, as different cuts may require less or more time to become tender.
How can I make these ribs spicy?
To add heat, incorporate cayenne pepper, crushed red pepper flakes, or your favorite hot sauce into the sauce mixture. Start with a small amount and adjust to your taste preference for the perfect balance of flavors.
Can I make the sauce ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the sauce a day in advance. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Just give it a good stir before using it to ensure the ingredients are well-mixed and flavorful.
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).