Montana Ribs
Tender, smoky Montana Ribs coated in a tangy, spicy sauce with a hint of sweetness, perfect for summer cookouts and family gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix cayenne pepper, pepper, prepared mustard, sugar, cider vinegar, and water in a saucepan.
- Add lemon slice and sliced onion to the mixture.
- Simmer the mixture for 20 minutes.
- Stir in catsup, Worcestershire sauce, and liquid smoke.
- Bring the sauce to a boil, then remove from heat.
- Place spareribs in a shallow baking pan.
- Bake the ribs at 450°F for 30 minutes.
- Drain excess fat from the pan and pour sauce over the ribs.
- Reduce oven temperature to 350°F and bake for an additional 45 to 60 minutes, basting with sauce occasionally.
Tips & Substitutions
For extra flavor, marinate the spareribs in the sauce overnight before baking. If you want a spicier kick, increase the cayenne pepper or add some hot sauce. If you're out of liquid smoke, try smoked paprika as a substitute for a similar smoky flavor. This recipe pairs beautifully with Cider Salad.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Montana ribs with classic sides like coleslaw, cornbread, or baked beans for a hearty meal. They also pair well with a fresh salad or roasted vegetables. To elevate the dish, drizzle some Ruby-Red Raspberry Sauce over the ribs for a sweet and tangy contrast.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover ribs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, place the ribs in a baking dish, cover with foil, and heat in a preheated oven at 350°F until warmed through, about 20-25 minutes. You can also reheat them on the grill for a nice char.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Montana Ribs contains roughly 107 calories, with 2g protein, 19g carbohydrates, and 3g fat. It is a good source of iron (19% of the Daily Value) and vitamin A (13% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 719mg per serving (31% 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 instead of spareribs?
Yes, you can substitute spareribs with baby back ribs or even chicken thighs. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly, as chicken may take less time to cook thoroughly.
How can I make this recipe less sweet?
To reduce the sweetness, cut back on the sugar and catsup. You can also add more vinegar to balance the flavors. Consider using unsweetened tomato sauce instead of catsup for a less sugary base.
Can this recipe be cooked on a grill instead of in the oven?
Absolutely! You can grill the marinated ribs over indirect heat for about 1.5 to 2 hours, basting with the sauce periodically. Just make sure to keep the grill covered to maintain a consistent temperature.
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).