Sweet and smoky pork ribs are a delightful dish that combines tender meat with a rich, flavorful sauce. This recipe is perfect for a weekend barbecue or a family dinner. The combination of sweet and savory flavors makes it a crowd-pleaser, and the slow cooking process ensures that the meat is fall-off-the-bone tender. Serve these ribs with your favorite sides for a delicious and satisfying meal.
Ingredients for Sweet and Smoky Pork Ribs
- 2 racks of pork ribs (about 4 pounds)
- 1 cup ketchup
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
- 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
How to Make Sweet and Smoky Pork Ribs
- Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
- In a medium bowl, mix together the ketchup, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, Worcestershire sauce, Dijon mustard, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper to make the sauce.
- Place the ribs on a large sheet of aluminum foil and brush both sides with the sauce.
- Wrap the ribs tightly in the foil and place them on the grill.
- Cook the ribs for about 2 hours, or until the meat is tender and cooked through, turning occasionally and basting with the sauce.
- Remove the ribs from the grill and let them rest for a few minutes before serving.
About the Main Ingredients
Pork Ribs: Pork ribs are the star of this dish, providing a rich and meaty flavor. They are best when cooked low and slow to ensure tenderness.
Ketchup: Ketchup adds a tangy sweetness to the sauce, balancing the savory flavors of the other ingredients.
Brown Sugar: Brown sugar adds sweetness and helps to caramelize the sauce, giving the ribs a rich, smoky flavor.
Apple Cider Vinegar: Apple cider vinegar adds a tangy acidity to the sauce, balancing the sweetness of the brown sugar.
Worcestershire Sauce: Worcestershire sauce adds depth and savory flavor to the sauce, enhancing the overall taste of the ribs.
Dijon Mustard: Dijon mustard adds a hint of tanginess and helps to emulsify the sauce, giving it a smooth texture.
Smoked Paprika: Smoked paprika adds a rich, smoky flavor to the sauce, enhancing the overall smokiness of the dish.
Garlic Powder: Garlic powder adds a savory flavor to the sauce, complementing the other ingredients.
Salt and Black Pepper: Salt and black pepper are used to season the ribs and sauce, enhancing the overall flavor of the dish.
Serve these sweet and smoky pork ribs with your favorite sides, such as coleslaw, baked beans, or cornbread, for a delicious and satisfying meal.