Famous Barbecue Ribs
Juicy, tender barbecue ribs coated in a rich, tangy sauce with a hint of spice, perfect for gatherings and family dinners craving bold flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Boil the ribs in water, covering them completely, and cook for about 1 1/2 hours until very tender. Check after 45 minutes to ensure water level remains high.
- Thoroughly drain the ribs after boiling.
- Mix the soy sauce and cornstarch in a small bowl.
- Place the boiled ribs in a large container or bowl.
- Pour the soy sauce and cornstarch mixture over the ribs, seal, and refrigerate for a couple of hours, turning occasionally to coat all meat.
- Meanwhile, mix the remaining ingredients: catsup, brown sugar, Tabasco, pepper, chili powder, paprika, water, vinegar, Worcestershire sauce, and salt.
- After marinating, cook the ribs as desired—grilling, baking, or broiling—and serve with the sauce.
Tips & Substitutions
For an even richer flavor, consider marinating the ribs overnight. If you're out of soy sauce, tamari makes a great gluten-free substitute. You can also adjust the heat by varying the amount of Tabasco or chili powder to suit your taste. If you're short on time, using a pressure cooker can expedite the boiling process.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the ribs with a side of Spiced Tomato And Cabbage Slaw for a fresh crunch that balances the rich flavors. Baked beans, cornbread, or a simple green salad also make excellent accompaniments. For a touch of sweetness, consider pairing them with Good Apple Butter on the side.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover ribs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, wrap them in foil and warm them in a 350°F oven for about 15-20 minutes, or until heated through. This helps maintain moisture and prevents them from drying out.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Famous Barbecue Ribs contains roughly 298 calories, with 17g protein, 38g carbohydrates, and 10g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (51% of the Daily Value), protein (35% of the Daily Value), and iron (34% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin C. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 3000mg per serving (130% 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?
Absolutely! While country-style boneless ribs are ideal, you can substitute with other cuts like baby back ribs or spare ribs. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly, as different cuts may require more or less time to become tender.
How do I know when the ribs are done cooking?
The ribs are done when they are fork-tender and easily pull apart. If using a meat thermometer, aim for an internal temperature of at least 190°F for maximum tenderness. Checking them after the initial boiling time ensures you don’t overcook them.
Can I make the sauce ahead of time?
Yes, the sauce can be made in advance and stored in the refrigerator for up to a week. Just give it a good stir before using it on the ribs. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully, enhancing the overall taste of the dish.
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).