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Country Style Ribs

Tender, fall-apart country style ribs slow-braised in a flavorful mixture of beef broth, apple cider vinegar, and molasses, finished with a rich barbecue glaze and caramelized to perfection.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 2 hours 45 minutes
Total Time 3 hours
Servings: 6 people
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American BBQ
Calories: 485

Ingredients
  

Ribs and Dry Rub
  • 4 to 5 pounds country style ribs about 2 to 3 inches thick
  • 3 tablespoons brown sugar
  • 2 tablespoons paprika smoked or regular
  • 1 tablespoon garlic powder
  • 1 tablespoon onion powder
  • 1 tablespoon black pepper
  • 2 teaspoons salt
  • 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
Braising Liquid
  • 1 cup beef broth
  • 1/2 cup apple cider vinegar
  • 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 tablespoon molasses
Finishing Sauce
  • 1 cup barbecue sauce your favorite brand or homemade
  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • 1 tablespoon honey

Equipment

  • Large rimmed sheet pan or baking sheet
  • Aluminum foil
  • Small bowl for mixing spice rub
  • Paper towels
  • Meat thermometer (optional but helpful)
  • Tongs or grill spatula
  • Basting brush

Method
 

  1. Remove the ribs from the refrigerator and pat them completely dry with paper towels to ensure proper browning.
  2. In a small bowl, combine 3 tablespoons brown sugar, 2 tablespoons paprika, 1 tablespoon garlic powder, 1 tablespoon onion powder, 1 tablespoon black pepper, 2 teaspoons salt, 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper, and 1 teaspoon dried thyme, stirring until evenly mixed.
  3. Rub 2 tablespoons olive oil all over the ribs, then press the dry spice mixture onto the meat so it adheres.
  4. Preheat the oven to 325°F (163°C) and arrange the ribs in a single layer on a large rimmed sheet pan.
  5. Roast the ribs uncovered for 25 to 30 minutes, until the rub forms a dark crust and the fat begins to render.
  6. While the ribs are browning, whisk together 1 cup beef broth, 1/2 cup apple cider vinegar, 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce, and 1 tablespoon molasses in a small bowl to make the braising liquid.
  7. Remove the ribs from the oven and carefully pour the braising liquid around the ribs without washing off the rub; cover the pan tightly with aluminum foil and return to the oven.
  8. Braise the ribs for 1 hour and 30 minutes at 325°F (163°C) until tender.
  9. Remove the foil and increase the oven temperature to 375°F (190°C); cook the ribs uncovered for an additional 30 minutes to concentrate the flavors.
  10. In a small bowl, mix 1 cup barbecue sauce, 2 tablespoons butter, and 1 tablespoon honey until smooth, then brush the finishing sauce over the ribs.
  11. Return the ribs to the oven at 375°F (190°C) for 15 minutes to caramelize the sauce.
  12. Remove the ribs and let them rest for 5 minutes before serving to allow the juices to redistribute.

Notes

Resist the urge to skip the initial browning step to develop maximum flavor and let the ribs rest before serving to keep them juicy.