Name: Classic Barbecue Pork Ribs with Smoky Bacon Barbecue Sauce
Prep time: 1 h
Total time: 1 h
Yield: 0
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 5 cloves of garlic, minced; 1 tablespoon plus 1 teaspoon of kosher salt, preferably Diamond Crystal; 1 tablespoon of packed dark brown sugar; 1 tablespoon of smoked paprika, preferably Pimentón de la Vera*; 2 teaspoons of ancho or New Mexican chile powder; 2 teaspoons of freshly ground black pepper; 2 teaspoons of chopped fresh sage leaves; 1 teaspoon of chopped fresh thyme leaves; 1 teaspoon of dry mustard, preferably Colman's; 1/2 teaspoon of ground cumin; 1/2 teaspoon of ground coriander; 1/2 teaspoon of ground ginger; 1/2 teaspoon of cayenne pepper (optional); 2 slabs of St. Louis-style pork spareribs (about 7 pounds total) or 2 slabs of pork spareribs (about 8 pounds total); 6 ounces of diced bacon; 2 medium onions, finely chopped; 5 cloves of garlic, minced; 2 teaspoons of chopped fresh sage leaves; 1 teaspoon of chopped fresh thyme leaves; 2 tablespoons of smoked paprika, preferably Pimentón de la Vera*; 1 tablespoon of ancho or New Mexican chile powder; 1 teaspoon of ground cumin; 1 teaspoon of freshly ground black pepper; 1/2 teaspoon of ground

Are you ready to indulge in a mouthwatering feast that will have your taste buds dancing? Look no further than the classic barbecue pork ribs with smoky bacon barbecue sauce. These ribs are the epitome of finger-licking goodness, and the smoky bacon barbecue sauce takes them to a whole new level of flavor.

The Secret to Tender Ribs

Ever wondered how to achieve that perfect fall-off-the-bone tenderness in your ribs? The secret lies in the low and slow cooking method. By cooking the ribs at a lower temperature for a longer period of time, the collagen in the meat breaks down, resulting in tender and succulent ribs that will leave you craving for more.

Choosing the Right Cut of Ribs

When it comes to ribs, there are a few different cuts you can choose from. The most common ones are baby back ribs and spare ribs. Baby back ribs are smaller and leaner, while spare ribs are larger and have more fat. Both cuts are delicious, so it really comes down to personal preference. Whichever cut you choose, make sure to remove the membrane on the back of the ribs for a more enjoyable eating experience.

The Importance of Seasoning

Seasoning is key when it comes to barbecue ribs. A simple dry rub consisting of salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika can elevate the flavor of the meat. Be generous with the seasoning, making sure to coat all sides of the ribs. This not only adds flavor but also helps to form a delicious crust on the outside of the meat.

Enhancing the Flavor with Smoky Bacon Barbecue Sauce

Now, let's talk about the star of the show - the smoky bacon barbecue sauce. This sauce takes the flavor of the ribs to a whole new level. It combines the smokiness of bacon with the tanginess of barbecue sauce, creating a mouthwatering blend of flavors that will leave you craving for more.

The Perfect Balance of Sweet and Savory

The smoky bacon barbecue sauce strikes the perfect balance between sweet and savory. The sweetness comes from brown sugar and molasses, while the savory flavors are enhanced by the addition of onions, garlic, and Worcestershire sauce. The smokiness of the bacon ties everything together, creating a symphony of flavors that will make your taste buds sing with delight.

Grilling to Perfection

Once you have coated your ribs with the smoky bacon barbecue sauce, it's time to grill them to perfection. Preheat your grill to medium heat and place the ribs on the grill. Cook them for about 5-7 minutes on each side, basting with the sauce as you go. The heat from the grill will caramelize the sugars in the sauce, creating a beautiful glaze on the ribs.

Conclusion

There you have it - classic barbecue pork ribs with smoky bacon barbecue sauce. These ribs are the perfect combination of tender meat, flavorful seasoning, and a smoky bacon barbecue sauce that will leave you wanting more. So fire up your grill, gather your friends and family, and get ready to enjoy a barbecue feast like no other.

Frequently asked questions

. Can I use a different type of meat instead of pork ribs?: While this recipe is specifically for pork ribs, you can certainly try it with other cuts of meat. Beef ribs or even chicken wings would work well with the smoky bacon barbecue sauce.
. Can I make the smoky bacon barbecue sauce in advance?: Absolutely! In fact, the flavors of the sauce tend to develop and intensify over time. You can make the sauce a day or two ahead and store it in the refrigerator until you're ready to use it.
. Can I use store-bought barbecue sauce instead?: If you're short on time or don't have all the ingredients for the smoky bacon barbecue sauce, you can certainly use a store-bought barbecue sauce. However, keep in mind that the flavors will not be as unique and delicious as the homemade version.
. How long should I marinate the ribs in the sauce?: For the best flavor, it's recommended to marinate the ribs in the smoky bacon barbecue sauce for at least 2-4 hours, or overnight if possible. This allows the flavors to penetrate the meat and infuse it with deliciousness.
. Can I bake the ribs instead of grilling them?: Absolutely! If you don't have a grill or prefer to bake the ribs, you can place them on a baking sheet lined with aluminum foil and bake them in a preheated oven at 325°F (163°C) for about 2-3 hours, or until tender.
. Can I freeze the leftover smoky bacon barbecue sauce?: Yes, you can freeze the leftover sauce in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Simply thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before using.
. What side dishes pair well with barbecue pork ribs?: Barbecue pork ribs are delicious on their own, but if you're looking to serve them with some side dishes, classics like coleslaw, cornbread, baked beans, and potato salad are always a hit.
. Can I use the smoky bacon barbecue sauce for other dishes?: Definitely! The smoky bacon barbecue sauce is incredibly versatile and can be used as a marinade or glaze for other meats such as chicken, steak, or even grilled vegetables.