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Barbecue culture is deeply rooted in American traditions, celebrated for its communal spirit and mouthwatering flavors. Among the myriad of BBQ dishes, ribs stand out as a perennial favorite, cherished for their tender meat and rich, smoky essence. Whether enjoyed at backyard cookouts, tailgating parties, or family dinners, ribs have a unique ability to bring people together around the grill or smoker. Among the many rib recipes available, sticky sweet BBQ ribs deserve a special mention. This dish is not just a meal; it’s an experience that combines sweet and savory flavors, making it an absolute must-try for both BBQ enthusiasts and casual cooks alike.

Sticky Sweet BBQ Ribs

Discover the irresistible allure of sticky sweet BBQ ribs, a cherished staple in American barbecue culture. This mouthwatering dish combines tender baby back ribs with a rich, sticky glaze that balances sweetness and tanginess beautifully. Perfect for any gathering, these ribs not only satisfy cravings but also foster connections among friends and family. Follow our easy recipe to create a BBQ experience that will have everyone coming back for seconds. Enjoy the smoky, juicy flavors and make unforgettable memories around the grill or smoker!
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Ingredients
  

2 racks of baby back ribs

1 cup packed brown sugar

1/2 cup honey

1/2 cup apple cider vinegar

1/4 cup soy sauce

1/4 cup ketchup

2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce

1 tablespoon Dijon mustard

4 cloves garlic, finely minced

2 teaspoons smoked paprika

1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

1 teaspoon salt

1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for added heat)

1 tablespoon cornstarch (optional, for thickening)

Instructions
 

Prepare the Ribs: Preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C). Carefully remove the silver skin membrane from the back of the ribs to enhance flavor absorption and tenderness. Pat the ribs dry using paper towels to help the marinade stick better.

    Make the Marinade: In a medium mixing bowl, combine the brown sugar, honey, apple cider vinegar, soy sauce, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, smoked paprika, black pepper, salt, and optional cayenne pepper. Mix thoroughly until well blended. Reserve 1 cup of this marinade for glazing later.

      Marinate the Ribs: Generously rub the remaining marinade over both sides of the ribs, ensuring a thorough coating. Place the ribs into a large resealable zip-top bag, seal the bag tightly to lock in flavor, and refrigerate for at least 2 hours. For a deeper taste, marinate them overnight.

        Bake the Ribs: Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil for easy cleanup and set a wire rack on top. Remove the ribs from the marinade, allowing excess marinade to drip off, and place them on the wire rack. Bake in the preheated oven for 2.5 to 3 hours, or until the ribs are fork-tender.

          Create the Glaze: While the ribs are baking, take the reserved marinade and pour it into a saucepan. If you want a thicker glaze, dissolve cornstarch in a small amount of water to create a slurry, and add it to the marinade. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer over medium heat, allowing it to cook for about 10-15 minutes, or until it slightly thickens.

            Finish on the Grill: Once the ribs are tender and cooked through, take them out of the oven. Preheat your grill to medium heat. Brush the luscious glaze over the ribs as you transfer them to the grill. Grill the ribs for approximately 5-7 minutes on each side, frequently basting with the glaze, until they achieve a beautifully caramelized exterior.

              Serve: Once grilled to perfection, remove the ribs from the grill and allow them to rest for about 5 minutes to lock in the juices. Cut between the bones for serving and drizzle any remaining glaze over the top for extra flavor.

                Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 20 minutes | 3 hours | Serves 4-6

                  - Presentation Tips: Serve the ribs on a rustic wooden platter and garnish with freshly chopped parsley or cilantro for a pop of color. Add some coleslaw and cornbread on the side for a complete BBQ experience!