Jerk Ribs
Juicy, flavorful jerk ribs with a spicy, aromatic dry rub, perfect for grilling or roasting. Ideal for gatherings and those who enjoy bold, Caribbean-inspired flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a small jar with a tight-fitting lid, shake together all dry ingredients until well blended.
- Rub the dry mixture onto all surfaces of the ribs.
- Grill the ribs over indirect heat in a covered grill, turning occasionally, until very tender, about 1 1/2 hours, or roast in a 350°F oven for 1 1/2 hours.
- Cut into 1 or 2-rib portions to serve.
Tips & Substitutions
For a deeper flavor, let the spice rub sit on the ribs for at least an hour or overnight in the refrigerator. If you prefer a milder heat, reduce the cayenne pepper. Feel free to substitute fresh herbs for dried ones if available; just triple the amount. For a unique twist, try adding a splash of vinegar to the rub for extra tang.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these jerk ribs with a side of coleslaw or cornbread for a classic combination. They also pair beautifully with a refreshing mango salsa or grilled vegetables. For a hearty meal, consider serving them alongside Cabbage Rolls(Holupky) for a delightful contrast of flavors.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover jerk ribs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in an oven at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes, covered with foil to retain moisture. Alternatively, you can reheat them on a grill to restore some of the original smoky flavor.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Jerk Ribs contains roughly 29 calories, with 1g protein, 6g carbohydrates, and 1g fat. It is a good source of iron (10% 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 make this recipe in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the ribs and apply the spice rub up to 24 hours in advance. Just wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate until ready to grill or bake. This allows the flavors to meld and intensify.
What type of grill is best for cooking these ribs?
A charcoal grill is ideal for achieving authentic smoky flavor, but a gas grill works well too. Just ensure you set it up for indirect cooking and maintain a steady temperature for the best results.
Can I use a different cut of meat?
Absolutely! While pork back ribs are traditional, you can use pork spare ribs or even chicken. Just adjust cooking times accordingly, as chicken will cook faster than pork ribs.
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).