Yankee Barbecued Spareribs

Prep: 15 min Cook: 45 min Serves: 4 Cuisine: American

Sweet and tangy Yankee Barbecued Spareribs feature tender pork ribs glazed with a flavorful sauce of brown sugar, vinegar, catsup, and spices. The lemon slices add a bright citrus note, making this dish perfect for casual gatherings and outdoor cookouts where bold flavors shine.

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Ingredients

  • 4 lb. meaty pork spareribs
  • 1 lemon, thinly sliced
  • 1 tsp. chili powder
  • 1/4 c. brown sugar
  • 1 Tbsp. Worcestershire sauce
  • 2 c. water
  • salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 large onion, chopped
  • 1 tsp. celery seed
  • 1/4 c. vinegar or lemon juice
  • 1 c. catsup

Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven to 450°F (230°C).
  2. Spread the ribs, meaty side up, in a roasting pan.
  3. Sprinkle the ribs with salt and pepper.
  4. Arrange lemon slices on the ribs.
  5. Bake uncovered in the preheated oven for 45 minutes, until browned.

Tips & Substitutions

For an extra flavor boost, marinate the spareribs in the sauce ingredients overnight. You can substitute the brown sugar with honey or maple syrup for a different sweetness. If you prefer a spicier kick, add cayenne pepper to the rub. Ensure the ribs are meaty to avoid dryness, and consider using a slow cooker for a tender finish.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the Yankee Barbecued Spareribs with classic sides like coleslaw, baked beans, or cornbread for a hearty meal. They pair beautifully with a refreshing salad or grilled vegetables. For a complete feast, consider complementing with dishes like Camper'S Stew or Layered Sandwich.

Storage & Reheating

Store any leftover ribs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, wrap the ribs in aluminum foil and warm them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes, or until heated through. This helps retain moisture.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Yankee Barbecued Spareribs contains roughly 661 calories, with 14g protein, 97g carbohydrates, and 17g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (42% of the Daily Value), protein (28% of the Daily Value), and vitamin A (26% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2770mg per serving (120% of the Daily Value).

661 kcal 33% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 14g 28% DV
Total Fat 16.8g 21% DV
Carbs 97.3g 35% DV
Fiber 5.4g 19% DV
Sugar 77.2g 100% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 2769.6mg 100% DV
Potassium 1155.2mg 25% DV
Cholesterol 48mg 16% DV

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 230mcg 26% DV
Vitamin C 3.3mg 4% DV
Vitamin D 1.4mcg 7% DV
Calcium 217.4mg 17% DV
Iron 7.5mg 42% DV
Diet fit High-fiber Low-fat

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 for this recipe?

Yes, while pork spareribs are traditional, you can also use baby back ribs or even beef ribs. Just adjust the cooking time as needed, since different cuts can vary in thickness and tenderness.

How can I make this recipe healthier?

To make a healthier version, trim excess fat from the ribs and use a sugar substitute in the sauce. You can also increase the proportion of vinegar or lemon juice for tanginess without adding calories, and serve with plenty of fresh vegetables.

What can I do if the ribs are tough?

If your ribs come out tough, it could be due to insufficient cooking time. Consider cooking them longer at a lower temperature, or using a pressure cooker to tenderize them. Braising can also help break down tough fibers for a more tender result.

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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