Aug 27 2026

Ribs Recipe

Time3h 30m
Serves4

Make Ribs Recipe in just 3h 30m. Get the full recipe with step-by-step instructions at pekinthechef.com.

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Ingredients

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Dry Rub

Method

Dry Rub

  1. 1

    Mix rub

    In a bowl, combine brown sugar, paprika, kosher salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, dry mustard, and cayenne. Whisk until evenly blended and free of lumps.

Ribs Prep & Slow Cooking

  1. 2

    Prepare ribs

    Preheat oven to 275°F (135°C). Pat ribs dry with paper towels. If membrane is still present on the bone side, slide a knife under it and peel it off using a paper towel for grip. Lightly brush both sides of the ribs with olive oil to help the rub adhere.

  2. 3

    Apply rub

    Generously apply the dry rub to both sides of the ribs, pressing it into the meat so it adheres. Reserve any excess rub for serving if desired.

  3. 4

    Arrange and add moisture

    Place the ribs meat-side up on a large sheet of aluminum foil (or in a roasting pan). Pour the apple juice and apple cider vinegar around — not directly over the rub — so moisture collects in the pan and keeps ribs humid during cooking.

  4. 5

    Wrap or cover

    If using foil, tightly seal the ribs in a foil packet, leaving some space for steam. If using a pan, cover tightly with a lid or foil.

  5. 6

    Slow cook

    Bake in the preheated oven for 2.5 to 3 hours for tender baby backs (internal temperature should reach ~190–203°F and meat should be tender but not falling completely off the bone). Check at 2.5 hours: pierce between bones with a fork — it should meet little resistance.

Basting & Finishing

  1. 7

    Prepare finishing sauce

    About 20 minutes before the ribs are done, combine the barbecue sauce and butter in a small saucepan over low heat until butter melts and sauce is glossy. Alternatively, stir sauce and butter together in a microwave-safe bowl and heat briefly. This creates a shiny glaze for finishing.

  2. 8

    Unwrap and baste

    Carefully open the foil (watch for steam). Brush a generous layer of the warmed barbecue glaze over the top of the ribs.

  3. 9

    Caramelize

    Increase oven temperature to 425°F (220°C) or preheat a grill to medium-high. Return the unwrapped ribs to the oven (on a rimmed sheet) or place on the grill for 8–12 minutes, basting once more, until the sauce is sticky and slightly caramelized. Watch closely to avoid burning.

  4. 10

    Rest and serve

    Remove ribs from oven or grill and let rest for 5–10 minutes. Slice between the bones into individual ribs. Serve with additional barbecue sauce on the side if desired.

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