Sticky BBQ Pork Ribs (Tender, Juicy, Fall-Off-The-Bone)

These are classic American-style pork ribs: slow-cooked until tender, then glazed with a thick, sticky barbecue sauce and finished until caramelized. Perfect for family meals or weekend comfort food.

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🥩 Ingredients (Serves 3–4)

For the ribs

• 1.2–1.5 kg pork ribs (baby back or spare ribs)

• 1½ tsp salt

• 1 tsp black pepper

• 1 tsp paprika

• 1 tsp garlic powder

• 1 tsp onion powder

• ½ tsp chili powder or cayenne (optional)

• 1 tbsp olive oil

For the BBQ sauce (or use store-bought)

• 180 ml ketchup

• 2 tbsp brown sugar

• 2 tbsp honey

• 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar

• 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce

• 1 tsp mustard

• 1 tsp smoked paprika

• 1 small garlic clove, minced

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🔥 Instructions

1. Prepare the ribs

• Preheat oven to 160°C (320°F).

• Remove the thin membrane from the back of the ribs.

• Rub ribs with olive oil.

• Mix salt, pepper, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and chili powder.

• Season ribs generously on both sides.

2. Slow-bake the ribs

• Wrap ribs tightly in aluminum foil.

• Place on a baking tray and bake for 2 to 2½ hours until very tender.

• Carefully unwrap and drain excess fat.

3. Make the BBQ sauce

• In a saucepan, combine all sauce ingredients.

• Simmer over low heat for 10–15 minutes, stirring until thick and glossy.

• Adjust sweetness or acidity to taste.

4. Glaze and finish

• Increase oven temperature to 220°C (425°F) or switch to grill/broiler.

• Brush ribs generously with BBQ sauce.

• Roast uncovered for 10–15 minutes, turning once, until sticky and slightly charred.

• Brush with extra sauce before serving.

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🍽️ Serving Suggestions

• Serve with coleslaw, cornbread, or roasted potatoes.

• Garnish with fresh parsley.

• Extra BBQ sauce on the side is a must.

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💡 Pro Tips

• Low and slow cooking makes ribs tender.

• Always remove the membrane for better texture.

• Let ribs rest 5 minutes before cutting.

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🔥 Flavor Profile

• Sweet, smoky, and tangy

• Tender meat with sticky caramelized glaze

• Classic BBQ comfort food