Sep 04 2026
RestaurantsNOKU Bistro And Sushi BarBbq Spare Ribs Recipe

Bbq Spare Ribs Recipe

Time4h
Serves4

Make Bbq Spare Ribs Recipe in just 4h . 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 medium bowl, thoroughly combine brown sugar, paprika, kosher salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, ground mustard, and cayenne. Break up any clumps so mixture is even.

Ribs & Prep

  1. 2

    Prepare ribs

    If not already removed, use a small knife or paper towel to peel off the membrane from the bone side of the ribs. Trim excess fat if desired. Pat ribs dry with paper towels.

  2. 3

    Apply binder and rub

    Brush both sides of the ribs lightly with yellow mustard to act as a binder (the mustard flavor will not be prominent). Generously coat both sides with the dry rub, pressing it into the meat so it adheres. Reserve any leftover rub for later use.

  3. 4

    Let rest

    Place rubbed ribs on a tray, cover lightly with plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 1 hour or up to overnight to let flavors penetrate.

  4. 5

    Preheat oven or smoker

    For oven method: preheat to 275°F (135°C). For smoker/grill: prepare for indirect heat and aim for a stable 225–250°F (107–121°C) with wood chips or chunks (hickory, apple, or oak) for smoke.

  5. 6

    Set up pan with liquid

    In an ovenproof rimmed baking pan or disposable foil pan, pour apple cider vinegar and water. This will create a humid environment to keep ribs moist. Place a wire rack inside the pan and set the ribs bone-side down on the rack.

  6. 7

    Low and slow cook

    Cook ribs at 275°F (135°C) in the oven for 2.5–3 hours, or at 225–250°F (107–121°C) in the smoker for 3–4 hours. If using oven, tent ribs loosely with foil (shiny side out) for the first 2 hours to retain moisture, removing foil for the last 30–45 minutes to firm the bark. Check after 2 hours for tenderness: a toothpick should slide between bones with light resistance and the meat should retract slightly from the bones.

Basting & Sauce

  1. 8

    Prepare glaze

    In a small saucepan or microwave-safe bowl, combine BBQ sauce, honey (if using), and butter. Warm gently until butter melts and sauce is homogenized. Do not boil; keep warm.

  2. 9

    Glaze ribs

    During the last 20–30 minutes of cooking, brush a generous layer of the warm sauce on both sides of the ribs. Repeat once more 10–15 minutes before removing to build a glossy glaze. If you prefer a thicker sticky coat, brush and place under a hot broiler for 1–2 minutes (oven method) watching carefully to avoid burning.

  3. 10

    Rest and slice

    Remove ribs to a cutting board and let rest for 10–15 minutes to allow juices to redistribute and glaze to set. Using a sharp knife, cut between the bones into individual ribs or desired portions.

  4. 11

    Serve

    Serve ribs with extra warmed BBQ sauce on the side. Optional sides include coleslaw, cornbread, or baked beans.

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