Fork-Tender Spareribs(Microwave)
Tender, flavorful spareribs cooked quickly in the microwave, coated in barbecue sauce with aromatic onion and lemon slices, perfect for a fuss-free, satisfying meal.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Place the spareribs, bone side up, in a 13 x 9 x 2-inch dish.
- Add hot tap water to the dish, then cover tightly with plastic wrap, leaving one corner open for venting.
- Microwave on Medium for 40 minutes.
- Turn the ribs over and arrange the onion and lemon slices over the top.
- Return to the microwave and cook for an additional 40 to 50 minutes, or until tender.
- Drain the liquid from the ribs and pour barbecue sauce over them.
- Microwave on Medium for 10 to 15 minutes, loosely covered with plastic wrap, until the sauce has dried on top.
- Spoon the sauce over the ribs before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For even more flavor, marinate the spareribs in your favorite barbecue sauce overnight before cooking. If you don't have fresh lemon, lemon juice can be a suitable substitute. Consider adding spices like garlic powder or smoked paprika to enhance the taste. Ensure to vent the plastic wrap properly to avoid steam build-up while microwaving.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the fork-tender spareribs with a side of Refrigerated Cabbage Slaw for a refreshing crunch. You can also pair them with cornbread or baked beans for a hearty meal. Drizzle extra barbecue sauce over the ribs or serve it on the side for dipping. For a lighter option, consider a side of Ruth'S Fruit Salad to complement the rich flavors.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover spareribs should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in the microwave covered with a damp paper towel to prevent drying out, heating in short intervals until warmed through. Alternatively, they can be reheated in the oven at 350°F until heated thoroughly.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Fork-Tender Spareribs(Microwave) contains roughly 996 calories, with 18g protein, 123g carbohydrates, and 50g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (35% of the Daily Value), iron (32% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (28% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1429mg per serving (62% 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 use baby back ribs or pork loin ribs instead of spareribs. Just adjust the cooking time according to the thickness of the meat, keeping an eye on tenderness. Baby back ribs may require slightly less cooking time due to their leaner nature.
How can I make the ribs spicier?
To add some heat, mix in cayenne pepper or hot sauce into the barbecue sauce before applying it to the ribs. You can also sprinkle red pepper flakes over the ribs while they cook. Adjust the amount based on your spice preference to achieve the desired level of heat.
Is it possible to prepare this recipe without a microwave?
Absolutely! You can cook the ribs in a slow cooker or oven. For the oven, wrap the ribs in foil and bake at 300°F for about 2.5 to 3 hours until tender. Use the same method for adding the barbecue sauce at the end. This method will give you a different, yet delicious, flavor profile.
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).