Betty'S Spareribs
Tender spareribs baked with prunes, onions, and potatoes create a savory, slightly sweet dish perfect for family dinners and gatherings, with rich flavors and hearty comfort.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Season both sides of the spareribs with salt, pepper, and garlic powder (optional).
- Place one slab of spareribs in the bottom of a Nesco or roasting pan with a cover.
- Add pitted prunes, onion, and about 2 tablespoons of water on top of the spareribs, then cover with the other slab.
- Bake covered at 350°F (175°C) for about one hour.
- Add peeled fresh potato chunks and more onion wedges around the ribs.
- Stir to ensure the ribs are covered with pan juices.
- Continue baking until the ribs are done and browned.
Tips & Substitutions
For extra flavor, marinate the spareribs overnight with salt, pepper, and garlic powder. If you want a touch of sweetness, consider adding a splash of barbecue sauce for chicken or spareribs on top of the prunes before baking. If prunes are unavailable, dried apricots or figs can serve as a tasty substitute.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the spareribs with a side of creamy mashed potatoes or Belgian salad for a refreshing balance. A drizzle of sunny coleslaw dressing over the salad adds a zesty touch. For a complete meal, pair with roasted vegetables or cornbread to soak up the delicious juices.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover spareribs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the ribs in a baking dish, cover with foil, and warm in a 350°F (175°C) oven until heated through, about 20-25 minutes. This helps retain moisture for a tender result.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Betty'S Spareribs contains roughly 16 calories, with 1g protein, 3g carbohydrates, and 1g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (23% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 499mg per serving (22% 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, you can use baby back ribs for a leaner option. Adjust the cooking time as baby back ribs may cook faster, typically around 45 minutes at 350°F. Ensure they are tender and reach an internal temperature of 145°F.
What if I don’t have a Nesco or roasting pan?
If you don’t have a Nesco or roasting pan, a regular oven-safe baking dish can work well. Make sure it has high sides to contain the juices and cover it tightly with aluminum foil to keep moisture in.
Can I make this recipe in a slow cooker?
Absolutely! To make this recipe in a slow cooker, layer the ingredients as instructed and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours. This method results in tender, flavorful ribs that fall off the bone.
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).