These fall-off-the-bone barbecue ribs are slow-cooked to perfection, coated in a smoky, tangy sauce, and packed with rich flavor. Perfect for backyard cookouts, family gatherings, or game day!

Ingredients

For the Ribs

• 2 racks pork baby back ribs (or spare ribs)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil

Dry Rub (for flavor and crust)

• 2 tablespoons brown sugar
• 1 tablespoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional for heat)
• ½ teaspoon chili powder
• ½ teaspoon dried oregano

Barbecue Sauce (for basting)

• 1 cup BBQ sauce (store-bought or homemade)
• 2 tablespoons honey
• 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
• 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce

Instructions

1. Prep the Ribs

• Remove the membrane from the back of the ribs for tenderness. Use a knife to loosen it and pull it off with a paper towel.
• Pat the ribs dry with paper towels, then coat with olive oil.

2. Apply the Dry Rub

• In a bowl, mix all the dry rub ingredients.
• Generously coat both sides of the ribs with the rub, pressing it into the meat.
• Let the ribs rest for 30 minutes at room temperature (or refrigerate for a few hours for deeper flavor).

Cooking Methods

Option 1: Oven-Baked (Easy & Juicy!)

1. Preheat oven to 275°F (135°C).
2. Wrap the ribs tightly in aluminum foil and place them on a baking sheet.
3. Bake for 2.5 – 3 hours until tender.

Option 2: Grilled (Smoky Flavor!)

1. Preheat grill to 225°F (107°C) using indirect heat.
2. Place ribs on the grill, cover, and cook for 3-4 hours, turning occasionally.

Option 3: Smoked (Authentic BBQ Style!)

1. Set up a smoker to 225°F (107°C) with hickory or applewood chips.
2. Smoke the ribs for 5-6 hours, spritzing with apple juice every hour.

3. Apply the BBQ Sauce

• Mix the BBQ sauce, honey, apple cider vinegar, and Worcestershire sauce in a bowl.
• Brush the ribs generously with the sauce.
• For oven-baked ribs: Increase temperature to 400°F (200°C) and bake uncovered for 10-15 minutes until caramelized.
• For grilled ribs: Place over direct heat for 10 minutes, flipping and basting with sauce.

4. Serve and Enjoy!

• Let the ribs rest for 10 minutes before slicing.
• Serve with extra BBQ sauce, coleslaw, cornbread, and baked beans.