Old Bay Barbecued Baby Back Ribs
Overview
Indulge in a delightful culinary experience that transforms the classic barbecue rib into a sensational dish bursting with flavor, where the unexpected pairing of Old Bay seasoning takes center stage. This recipe not only highlights the versatility of Old Bay, traditionally revered for its use with seafood, but also showcases how it can elevate your baby back ribs to new heights of deliciousness. The preparation is remarkably straightforward and quick, particularly if you choose to boil the ribs beforehand, which significantly reduces the cooking time on the grill or in the oven. While the cook time is a mere 20 minutes, please note that this does not account for the essential standing time of anywhere between 20 minutes to 24 hours, which allows the flavors to truly meld and permeate the meat. Whether you opt for grilling or baking, these ribs will surely impress your family and friends at your next gathering or camping trip.
Cooking Time
| Duration | Time |
|---|---|
| Preparation | 25 minutes |
| Cooking | 45 minutes |
| Total | 1 hour 10 minutes |
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 839.3 kcal |
| Total Fat | 66.9 g |
| Saturated Fat | 24.8 g |
| Cholesterol | 229.6 mg |
| Sodium | 216.4 mg |
| Total Carbohydrates | 10 g |
| Dietary Fiber | 0.4 g |
| Sugars | 7.8 g |
| Protein | 46 g |
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Onion | 1 medium |
| Garlic cloves | 2 cloves |
| Brown sugar | 2 tablespoons |
| Old Bay seasoning | 4 tablespoons |
| Barbecue sauce | To taste |
| Baby back ribs | 2 racks (approximately 4 pounds total) |
Instructions
-
Preparation of the Ribs: Begin by cutting the baby back ribs into sections of three or four ribs each, making them more manageable for cooking and serving. This step is crucial for ensuring even cooking and flavorful bites.
-
-
Boiling the Ribs: In a large stockpot, combine the prepared rib sections with the chopped onion and minced garlic. Fill the pot with enough water to fully cover the ribs, ensuring they have ample space to cook without being overcrowded. Bring the water to a vigorous boil over high heat.
-
Simmering: Once the water reaches a full boil, cover the pot with a lid and reduce the heat to a low simmer. Allow the ribs to simmer gently for approximately 45 minutes. This initial cooking method helps to tenderize the meat while infusing it with the flavors of the onion and garlic.
-
Creating the Rub: While the ribs simmer, prepare the seasoning rub by combining the Old Bay seasoning and brown sugar in a small mixing bowl. Stir the mixture thoroughly to ensure that the flavors are evenly distributed, creating a flavorful crust for the ribs.
-
Cooling and Seasoning: After the 45-minute simmering period, carefully remove the ribs from the stockpot using tongs or a slotted spoon, placing them on a large platter to cool for about 5 minutes. Once slightly cooled, generously rub the seasoning mixture all over the ribs, making sure to coat each piece thoroughly.
-
Marinating: Allow the seasoned ribs to stand at room temperature for at least 20 minutes, or for optimal flavor development, wrap them in plastic wrap and refrigerate them for up to 24 hours. If you choose the longer marinating method, remember to bring the ribs back to room temperature before proceeding to the next step.
-
Grilling Method: If you prefer to grill your ribs, preheat the grill to a medium to medium-high heat setting. Once the grill is hot, place the ribs directly on the grates. Grill each side for approximately 5 minutes, allowing a nice char to develop, then baste the ribs with your choice of barbecue sauce. Continue grilling for an additional 5 to 10 minutes on each side, ensuring they are heated through and the sauce caramelizes slightly.
-
Oven Method: For those opting to finish the ribs in the oven, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the seasoned ribs on a shallow baking dish lined with aluminum foil for easy cleanup. Bake for about 10 minutes, then baste the ribs with barbecue sauce and return to the oven for another 10 minutes. After that, flip the ribs over, baste the other side with sauce, and cook for an additional 10 minutes, or until they are heated thoroughly and the sauce has set.
-
Serving: Once the ribs are cooked to perfection, remove them from the grill or oven and allow them to rest for a few minutes before slicing them into individual portions. Serve these succulent Old Bay Barbecued Baby Back Ribs with additional barbecue sauce on the side for dipping, ensuring that every bite is as flavorful as the last.
Conclusion
This recipe for Old Bay Barbecued Baby Back Ribs is a testament to the versatility of seasoning and the joy of cooking. With its uncomplicated steps and flavorful results, this dish is perfect for any occasion, be it a casual family meal or a festive gathering with friends. With just a little advance preparation, you can enjoy tender, juicy ribs that pack a flavorful punch, making them a favorite at any table. Enjoy your culinary adventure and savor every delicious bite!
