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Sticky Spicy Ribs

These Sticky Spicy Ribs are the ultimate comfort food, featuring a perfect balance of sweet and spicy flavors and melt-in-your-mouth tenderness. Perfect for any occasion, they’re sure to become a family favorite!
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 2 hours 15 minutes
Total Time 2 hours 35 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: BBQ, Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: American, Barbecue
Calories: 450
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Spice Rub
  • 2 tablespoons packed brown sugar
  • 1.5 teaspoons salt
  • 2 tablespoons paprika (not hot)
  • 1.5 teaspoons chipotle chile powder Adjust based on heat preference
  • 1.5 teaspoons ground cumin
  • 1 teaspoon ground allspice
  • 0.5 teaspoon black pepper
For the Ribs
  • 2 racks baby back ribs 2 lb each, choose a brand with good marbling
  • 1.5 cups chopped onion from 1 large onion
  • 6 cloves garlic finely chopped
  • 1.5 tablespoons fresh ginger finely chopped and peeled
  • 2 tablespoons vegetable oil use olive oil for extra flavor
For the Sauce
  • 1.5 cups ketchup high-quality brand recommended for richer taste
  • 0.5 cup cider vinegar adds a nice tang
  • 6 tablespoons soy sauce
  • 0.5 cup water
  • 0.25 cup dark brown sugar packed for depth in the sauce
  • 1.5 teaspoons salt
  • 0.75 teaspoon black pepper

Method
 

Preparation
  1. In a small bowl, whisk together the brown sugar, salt, and spices to make the spice mix.
  2. Line a 17 by 12 by 1 inch heavy-duty baking pan with a double layer of foil and oil the foil.
  3. Pat the ribs dry and arrange them in the baking pan. Rub the spice mixture all over the ribs. Cover and marinate for 2 1/2 hours in the refrigerator.
  4. After marinating, bring the ribs to room temperature for about 30 minutes.
  5. Preheat the oven to 350°F (180°C).
Baking Ribs
  1. Cover the pan tightly with foil and bake for 1 1/4 hours.
  2. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 40 minutes, basting generously with sauce and pan juices every 10 minutes.
Making the Sauce
  1. Heat a saucepan over moderate heat and cook the chopped onion, garlic, and ginger in oil until softened (around 6 minutes).
  2. Add the remaining sauce ingredients to the saucepan and simmer uncovered for about 15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until slightly thickened.
  3. If desired, puree the sauce until smooth.
Final Touches
  1. Remove the top sheet of foil from the ribs and continue to bake uncovered.
  2. Turn on the broiler and broil the ribs, meaty side up, 4 to 6 inches from heat until browned (about 3 minutes).

Notes

For best flavor, always use fresh spices and high-quality ribs. Store ribs in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days, or freeze for up to 3 months. Marinate ribs overnight for enhanced flavor.