Great Spareribs

Cook: 90 min Cuisine: American

Tender, flavorful spareribs baked with a tangy tomato-based sauce, accented with lemon, onion, and a hint of spice—perfect for comforting family dinners or gatherings.

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Ingredients

  • 3 to 4 lb. ribs, cut in pieces
  • 1 lemon
  • 1 onion
  • 1 cup catsup
  • 2 cups water
  • 1/3 cup Worcestershire sauce
  • 2 dashes Tabasco sauce

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Place the ribs in a baking dish.
  3. In a bowl, combine lemon, onion, catsup, water, Worcestershire sauce, Tabasco sauce, and chili powder.
  4. Pour the sauce over the ribs.
  5. Bake uncovered for 1 to 1 1/2 hours, until ribs are tender and cooked through.

Tips & Substitutions

For an extra kick, consider adding a tablespoon of smoked paprika to the sauce for a smoky flavor. You can substitute honey for Worcestershire sauce if you're looking for a sweeter taste. If you don't have fresh lemon, lemon juice works well too. Remember to check the ribs halfway through baking and baste them with the sauce for added flavor.

Serving Suggestions

Serve these flavorful ribs with a side of coleslaw or cornbread for a classic barbecue feel. They pair beautifully with Spicy Salad for a fresh contrast. You can also offer some baked beans or corn on the cob for a hearty meal. For a lighter option, consider a side of Applesauce Rice.

Storage & Reheating

Store leftover spareribs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a baking dish covered with foil in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 20-30 minutes or until heated through. Alternatively, you can microwave them on low power until warm.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Great Spareribs contains roughly 242 calories, with 6g protein, 58g carbohydrates, and 3g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (79% of the Daily Value), potassium (33% of the Daily Value), and vitamin A (33% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium and protein. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1768mg per serving (77% of the Daily Value).

242 kcal 12% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 5.8g 12% DV
Total Fat 3.4g 4% DV
Carbs 57.7g 21% DV
Fiber 5.9g 21% DV
Sugar 15.4g 31% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 1768mg 77% DV
Potassium 1544.7mg 33% DV

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 300.3mcg 33% DV
Vitamin C 11mg 12% DV
Calcium 164.4mg 13% DV
Iron 14.3mg 79% DV
Diet fit High-fiber Under 400 cal Low-fat

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 pork shoulder or beef short ribs as alternatives. Just adjust the cooking time based on the thickness of the meat, ensuring it cooks through and becomes tender. Keep in mind that cooking times may vary, so check for doneness accordingly.

Is there a way to make this recipe in a slow cooker?

Absolutely! To adapt this recipe for a slow cooker, place the ribs in the slow cooker and pour the sauce over them. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours until the ribs are tender. This method allows the flavors to meld beautifully.

Can I prepare the ribs ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the ribs and sauce a day in advance. Simply marinate the ribs in the sauce, cover, and refrigerate. When ready to cook, let them sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before baking. This enhances the flavors and makes for a convenient meal.

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).

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