Orange-Glazed Back Ribs

Prep: 15 min Cook: 90 min Serves: 6 Cuisine: American

Juicy pork back ribs glazed with a tangy orange sauce, featuring citrusy and sweet flavors, ideal for summer barbecues and family gatherings.

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Ingredients

  • 6 lb. pork back ribs
  • 1 c. barbecue sauce
  • 1 c. fresh squeezed orange juice
  • 1/3 c. fresh squeezed lemon juice
  • 1/3 c. brown sugar
  • 2 Tbsp. soy sauce
  • 2 Tbsp. instant minced onion
  • 1 tsp. salt

Instructions

  1. Combine barbecue sauce, orange juice, lemon juice, brown sugar, soy sauce, minced onion, and salt in a saucepan.
  2. Bring to a boil, then lower heat and simmer uncovered for 10 to 20 minutes, stirring occasionally until the sauce thickens.
  3. Stir in orange peel.
  4. Place ribs on grill over low to moderate heat and broil for 1 hour, turning to brown evenly.
  5. Brush ribs with the sauce and continue broiling for 20 to 30 minutes, turning and brushing with sauce occasionally until done.

Tips & Substitutions

For best results, marinate the ribs in the sauce overnight to enhance the flavor. If fresh oranges aren't available, you can use store-bought orange juice, but fresh-squeezed will yield a brighter taste. To reduce sugar, consider substituting with honey or a sugar alternative. Keep an eye on the ribs while grilling to prevent burning, and feel free to add your favorite spices for a personal touch.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the orange-glazed back ribs with a side of coleslaw or baked beans to balance the sweetness of the glaze. Grilled corn on the cob also makes a great pairing. For a complete meal, consider adding a refreshing salad or browsing more American recipes that complement this dish. Enjoy with friends and family for a delightful barbecue experience.

Storage & Reheating

Store leftover ribs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, wrap them in foil and place in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes, or until warmed through. Alternatively, you can reheat them on the grill for a few minutes on each side, brushing with extra glaze for added moisture.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Orange-Glazed Back Ribs contains roughly 209 calories, with 3g protein, 46g carbohydrates, and 2g fat. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1781mg per serving (77% of the Daily Value).

209 kcal 10% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 2.7g 5% DV
Total Fat 2.2g 3% DV
Carbs 46.3g 17% DV
Fiber 0.5g 2% DV
Sugar 40.5g 81% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 1780.8mg 77% DV
Potassium 174.3mg 4% DV
Cholesterol 1.8mg 1% DV

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 0.7mcg
Vitamin C 0.2mg
Vitamin D 0mcg
Calcium 43.1mg 3% DV
Iron 0.6mg 3% DV
Diet fit Under 400 cal Low-fat
Contains Soy

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 prepare the ribs in advance?

Yes, you can prepare the ribs a day ahead and refrigerate them after cooking. Simply reheat them on the grill or in the oven before serving. This is a great way to save time if you're planning a gathering!

What type of barbecue sauce works best?

A tangy or sweet barbecue sauce complements the citrus flavors well. You can use homemade or store-bought varieties, but avoiding overly smoky sauces is best to allow the orange glaze to shine. Experiment with different brands to find your favorite match.

Can I use a different type of meat?

Absolutely! This orange glaze also works well with chicken or turkey. Adjust cooking times accordingly, as poultry generally cooks faster than pork. For a unique twist, try it with salmon for a refreshing alternative!

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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