Tender Ribs

Prep: 60 min Cook: 50 min Cuisine: American

Tender ribs glazed with a tangy mustard and red wine vinegar sauce, grilled to perfection—ideal for summer barbecues and gatherings, appealing to meat lovers and flavor enthusiasts.

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Ingredients

  • ribs
  • 1 c. broth from parboil
  • 1 c. mustard
  • 1/2 c. red wine vinegar
  • 1/3 c. brown sugar
  • 2 Tbsp. tomato paste
  • 3 Tbsp. butter
  • 2 Tbsp. Worcestershire sauce

Instructions

  1. Parboil ribs in water with bay leaf and garlic; allow to cool.
  2. Combine broth, mustard, red wine vinegar, brown sugar, tomato paste, butter, and Worcestershire sauce in a large saucepan.
  3. Cook down the sauce for 30 minutes.
  4. Generously baste the ribs with the sauce.
  5. Grill the ribs meat side down for 10 minutes, then turn and grill for 10 minutes longer.

Tips & Substitutions

For a more complex flavor, consider adding spices like smoked paprika or cumin to the sauce. If you're out of red wine vinegar, white vinegar or apple cider vinegar can work as substitutes. For a sweeter finish, you can increase the brown sugar or add a touch of honey. Remember to baste the ribs multiple times for maximum flavor.

Serving Suggestions

These tender ribs pair beautifully with classic sides like coleslaw, baked beans, or cornbread. For a refreshing touch, serve with a side salad or grilled vegetables. Consider offering a selection of dipping sauces on the side for added flavor. They make a great centerpiece for a barbecue or family gathering.

Storage & Reheating

Store leftover ribs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes, basting occasionally with leftover sauce to keep them moist and flavorful.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Tender Ribs contains roughly 330 calories, with 3g protein, 58g carbohydrates, and 12g fat. It is an excellent source of potassium (22% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and vitamin C.

330 kcal 17% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 2.8g 6% DV
Total Fat 11.6g 15% DV
Carbs 57.5g 21% DV
Fiber 2.6g 9% DV
Sugar 52.2g 100% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 167.7mg 7% DV
Potassium 1013.7mg 22% DV
Cholesterol 33.8mg 11% DV

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 85.5mcg 10% DV
Vitamin C 16mg 18% DV
Calcium 104.5mg 8% DV
Iron 3.4mg 19% DV
Diet fit Under 400 cal
Contains Milk

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 different types of ribs for this recipe?

Yes, you can use spare ribs, baby back ribs, or even beef ribs, depending on your preference. Just adjust the cooking time as needed, since different cuts may require varying amounts of time to become tender.

Is it necessary to parboil the ribs?

Parboiling helps to tenderize the ribs and remove excess fat, resulting in a better texture and flavor. However, if you're short on time, you can skip this step and cook the ribs longer on the grill, though the final result may vary.

Can I make the sauce in advance?

Absolutely! You can prepare the sauce a day or two ahead and store it in the refrigerator. Reheat it before basting the ribs to ensure it’s warm and flavorful. This makes meal prep easier and allows the flavors to meld beautifully.

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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