Sweet And Spicy Ribs

Prep: 105 min Cook: 60 min Serves: 4 Cuisine: American

Sweet and spicy beef short ribs simmered in a tangy sauce with onions, perfect for hearty gatherings and flavor enthusiasts seeking a tender, flavorful main dish.

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Ingredients

  • 3 or 4 lb. beef short ribs
  • 1 Tbsp. vinegar
  • 1 Tbsp. horseradish
  • 1 Tbsp. dry mustard
  • 1/4 tsp. pepper
  • 2 medium onions, sliced
  • 1 cup catsup
  • 1 cup water
  • 1 Tbsp. Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 Tbsp. sugar
  • 1 tsp. salt
  • 1 bay leaf

Instructions

  1. Combine the short ribs with all ingredients except onions in a large saucepan; cover.
  2. Simmer for 2 hours or until the meat is tender.
  3. Cool the ribs; then chill until 1 1/4 hours before serving.
  4. Skim off the fat; remove the bay leaf.
  5. Place the meat in a baking dish.
  6. Pour the sauce over the ribs and top with sliced onions.
  7. Cover the dish.
  8. Bake in a moderate 350°F oven for 30 minutes.
  9. Baste the onions with the sauce.
  10. Bake for an additional 30 minutes.

Tips & Substitutions

For a deeper flavor, marinate the short ribs in the sauce overnight. If you prefer a spicier kick, add a dash of cayenne pepper or a few tablespoons of your favorite hot sauce. Use apple cider vinegar instead of regular vinegar for a fruity undertone. If you're out of horseradish, prepared mustard can be a good substitute.

Serving Suggestions

Serve these sweet and spicy ribs with creamy coleslaw and cornbread for a complete meal. They also pair beautifully with a side of roasted vegetables or baked beans. For an extra touch, sprinkle fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro over the top before serving. Browse more American recipes for more inspiration.

Storage & Reheating

To store leftovers, let the ribs cool completely before transferring them to an airtight container. They can be refrigerated for up to 3 days. For reheating, place the ribs in a baking dish, cover with foil, and warm in a preheated oven at 325°F for about 20-25 minutes, basting with sauce for moisture.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Sweet And Spicy Ribs contains roughly 379 calories, with 18g protein, 42g carbohydrates, and 17g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (36% of the Daily Value) and iron (26% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin C and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2602mg per serving (113% of the Daily Value).

379 kcal 19% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 18.2g 36% DV
Total Fat 17g 22% DV
Carbs 41.9g 15% DV
Fiber 2.9g 10% DV
Sugar 16.7g 33% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 2601.6mg 100% DV
Potassium 537.3mg 11% DV
Cholesterol 54.8mg 18% DV

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 49.2mcg 5% DV
Vitamin C 10.8mg 12% DV
Vitamin D 0.1mcg
Calcium 81.6mg 6% DV
Iron 4.7mg 26% DV
Diet fit Under 400 cal

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 pork ribs instead of beef short ribs?

Yes, you can substitute pork ribs for beef short ribs in this recipe. Pork ribs will have a slightly different flavor and may cook more quickly, so adjust the cooking time as needed to ensure they are tender.

Can I make this recipe in advance?

Absolutely! You can prepare the ribs and sauce a day ahead. Follow the cooking instructions, let the dish cool, then refrigerate. Reheat before serving to enhance the flavors, making it a convenient option for gatherings.

What can I serve with these ribs?

These ribs go well with sides like macaroni and cheese, mashed potatoes, or grilled corn. A refreshing green salad or baked sweet potatoes also complements the dish nicely. Consider pairing with a robust red wine for a delightful dinner experience.

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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