Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Remove the ribs from the refrigerator and pat them completely dry with paper towels to ensure proper browning.
- 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.
- Rub 2 tablespoons olive oil all over the ribs, then press the dry spice mixture onto the meat so it adheres.
- Preheat the oven to 325°F (163°C) and arrange the ribs in a single layer on a large rimmed sheet pan.
- Roast the ribs uncovered for 25 to 30 minutes, until the rub forms a dark crust and the fat begins to render.
- 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.
- 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.
- Braise the ribs for 1 hour and 30 minutes at 325°F (163°C) until tender.
- 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.
- 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.
- Return the ribs to the oven at 375°F (190°C) for 15 minutes to caramelize the sauce.
- 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.
