Zesty Barbecued Ribs
Zesty barbecued ribs feature tender spareribs coated in a tangy, spicy barbecue sauce, perfect for gatherings and outdoor grilling enthusiasts seeking bold flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a small bowl, stir together the barbecue sauce, horseradish, prepared mustard, and Worcestershire sauce until well blended.
- Place the spareribs in a large saucepan and add water.
- Cover and bring to a boil over high heat, then simmer gently for 30 to 45 minutes until tender.
- Drain the ribs well.
- Brush the ribs with the sauce mixture.
- Grill, brushing with sauce and turning frequently, for about 20 minutes or until browned.
Tips & Substitutions
For a deeper flavor, marinate the ribs in the sauce mixture overnight. If you prefer a sweeter taste, consider adding brown sugar or honey to the sauce. If you don't have spareribs, baby back ribs or pork chops can be used as substitutes. Always adjust the level of horseradish and mustard to suit your heat preference.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the zesty barbecued ribs with classic sides like coleslaw, cornbread, or baked beans to complement the flavors. They also pair beautifully with Lucille'S Fruit Salad for a refreshing contrast. For a complete meal, consider adding grilled vegetables or a light salad.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover ribs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. To reheat, wrap them in aluminum foil and warm them in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 20 minutes, or until heated through. For a crispy finish, briefly broil them after reheating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Zesty Barbecued Ribs contains roughly 70 calories, with 2g protein, 14g carbohydrates, and 1g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (28% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 610mg per serving (27% 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 type of barbecue sauce?
Yes, you can use any barbecue sauce you prefer. Just keep in mind that different sauces can alter the flavor profile of the ribs. A tangy sauce works well with the horseradish and mustard, while a sweeter sauce may require adjustments to the other ingredients.
How can I tell when the ribs are done cooking?
The ribs are done when they are tender and the meat easily pulls away from the bone. You can also check the internal temperature; it should reach at least 145°F. However, for optimal tenderness, aim for a fall-off-the-bone texture, which typically occurs at around 190°F to 203°F.
Can I make this recipe in advance and freeze it?
Absolutely! You can prepare the ribs, apply the sauce, and then freeze them before grilling. Just ensure they are well-wrapped to prevent freezer burn. When ready to cook, thaw them in the refrigerator overnight, then grill as directed for the best results.
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).