Pork Baby Back Riblets In Chipotle Prickly Pear Bbq Sauce Recipe

HOUSE FAVORITES

1. 1

   Prepare prickly pear chipotle BBQ sauce

   In a medium saucepan, combine prickly pear nectar, ketchup, 0.25 cup brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, adobo sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, Worcestershire sauce, salt, pepper, and lime juice if using. Bring to a simmer over medium heat and cook 15–20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until slightly thickened. Remove from heat and set aside.

2. 2

   Make the dry rub

   In a small bowl, mix kosher salt, black pepper, smoked paprika, brown sugar (rub), garlic powder, onion powder, chipotle chili powder, and ground cumin until evenly combined.

3. 3

   Prepare the riblets

   Pat riblets dry with paper towels. If present, remove the membrane on the bone side. Trim any excess fat or ragged edges.

4. 4

   Apply rub

   Generously rub the dry mixture all over the riblets on both sides. Press to adhere. Let the rub sit on the meat for 25–40 minutes to penetrate.

5. 5

   Roast the riblets

   Preheat oven to 275°F (135°C). Place a rack on a large sheet pan and arrange riblets in a single layer. Bake for about 2 hours 30 minutes to 3 hours, until the meat is tender and pulls away from the bone but not falling apart.

6. 6

   Glaze with BBQ sauce

   Brush a generous layer of the prickly pear BBQ sauce over the riblets. Return to the oven (uncovered) for 15–20 minutes to set the glaze. If you want more glaze, brush another layer and bake 5 more minutes.

7. 7

   Optional finish on grill

   For extra char, preheat a grill to medium-high. Transfer the riblets and grill 2–3 minutes per side, basting with more sauce as desired.

8. 8

   Rest and serve

   Let the riblets rest 5–10 minutes after removing from heat. Slice between the bones and serve with additional sauce on the side.