Preheat oven to 325°F (160°C). Pat the half rack of baby back ribs dry with paper towels. Remove any silver skin from the underside if present by sliding a knife under it and pulling it off.

Season

Lightly season both sides of the ribs with 1/4 tsp kosher salt and 1/8 tsp black pepper. Brush both sides very lightly with 1/2 tsp neutral oil to help the rub adhere.

Low-and-slow bake

Place ribs meat-side up on a rimmed baking sheet or in a shallow roasting pan. Add 1/4 cup water to the bottom of the pan (not over the ribs) to maintain humidity and prevent drying. Cover tightly with aluminum foil and bake at 325°F (160°C) for 1 hour 15 minutes to 1 hour 30 minutes, until the meat is tender and pulls slightly away from the bone.

Sauce and finish

Remove foil and brush both sides of the ribs with 2 tbs mild barbecue sauce. Return to the oven uncovered for 8–10 minutes, or broil 1–2 minutes on low broil watching carefully, until sauce is set and slightly glossy. Let rest 5 minutes before cutting.

Cut the half rack into 2–3 kid-friendly bone portions and transfer to a serving plate. If desired, sprinkle 1 tsp chopped parsley for color and serve with extra 1 tbs barbecue sauce on the side.

Side (French fries example)

Oven fries

If using frozen fries, spread 1 cup evenly on a baking sheet, toss with 1 tbs vegetable oil and bake according to package instructions at 425°F (220°C) for 12–18 minutes until golden and crisp, flipping once. Season with 1/4 tsp salt immediately after baking.

Alternative — quick pan

For a quick stovetop option, heat 1 tbs vegetable oil in a nonstick skillet over medium-high. Add fries in a single layer and cook, turning occasionally, 8–10 minutes until crisp and heated through. Drain on paper towels and season with 1/4 tsp salt.

Drink (kids)

Pour 6 oz apple juice (or chosen kid beverage) into a small cup. Add 2–3 ice cubes if desired. Serve with a straw.

To serve

Plate one portion of ribs with the chosen side and the drink. Provide extra barbecue sauce on the side for dipping. Ensure ribs have rested 5 minutes before serving so juices redistribute and they are safe to handle for kids.