If you’re a fan of juicy, flavorful meat that falls off the bone, then Spicy Pork Ribs will be surely high on your list of favorite dishes.
This beloved dish combines the rich, succulent taste of pork with the bold kick of spices.
They are the perfect combination of tender, juicy meat and bold, smoky flavors. The spice rub infuses the ribs with a rich, savory taste that has just the right amount of heat to keep your taste buds excited.
Whether you’re a seasoned pitmaster or a home cook looking to spice up your repertoire, spicy pork ribs are a must-try! Enjoy.
Serving Suggestions for Spicy Pork Ribs
Here are some serving suggestions to complement your Spicy Pork Ribs:
Coleslaw: A tangy and creamy coleslaw provides a refreshing contrast to the rich and spicy ribs.
Cornbread: Serve with warm, buttery cornbread to add a touch of sweetness and a satisfying texture.
Grilled Vegetables: Grilled corn on the cob, zucchini, bell peppers, or asparagus make for delicious and healthy side dishes.
Potato Salad: A classic potato salad with a creamy dressing is a hearty and comforting side that pairs well with BBQ flavors.
Baked Beans: Serve with smoky and savory baked beans for a traditional BBQ pairing.
Macaroni and Cheese: Creamy, cheesy mac and cheese is a crowd-pleaser that goes perfectly with spicy ribs.
Pickles: Add a side of pickles or pickled vegetables to provide a tangy and crunchy contrast to the ribs.
Green Salad: A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette can balance out the richness of the ribs.
French Fries or Sweet Potato Fries: Crispy fries are always a hit and make a great accompaniment to ribs.
Corn Salad: A fresh corn salad with tomatoes, red onion, and cilantro adds a burst of flavor and freshness to the meal.
These serving suggestions will help create a well-rounded and satisfying meal that highlights the deliciousness of your Spicy Pork Ribs. Enjoy!
Cooking Tips
Here are some cooking tips to ensure your Spicy Pork Ribs turn out perfectly:
Remove the Membrane: Always remove the thin membrane on the back of the ribs before seasoning. This helps the spices penetrate the meat better and ensures the ribs are more tender.
Use a Dry Rub: Applying a dry rub and letting it sit for at least an hour, or preferably overnight in the refrigerator, allows the flavors to fully permeate the meat.
Low and Slow: Cooking ribs at a low temperature for an extended period (300°F for 2.5-3 hours) ensures they become tender and juicy.
Wrap Tightly: When baking the ribs, cover the baking sheet or roasting pan tightly with aluminum foil. This traps moisture and helps steam the ribs, making them more tender.
Preheat the Grill: Make sure your grill is preheated to medium-high heat before transferring the ribs from the oven. This ensures you get a nice char without overcooking the meat.
Baste Generously: Brush the ribs with the spicy BBQ sauce during grilling. This creates a flavorful, caramelized glaze. Baste the ribs every few minutes for the best results.
Use a Meat Thermometer: To ensure the ribs are fully cooked, use a meat thermometer. The internal temperature should reach at least 145°F (63°C).
Rest Before Cutting: Let the ribs rest for a few minutes after grilling before cutting into them. This helps retain the juices and makes the ribs easier to slice.
Adjust Spice Level: Adjust the amount of cayenne pepper and hot sauce to suit your taste. You can always add more if you prefer extra heat.
Avoid Burning the Sauce: Be careful when grilling the ribs with the sauce. BBQ sauce contains sugars that can burn quickly. Keep a close eye on the ribs and turn them frequently to avoid burning.
Experiment with Wood Chips: If using a charcoal grill, consider adding wood chips (like hickory or applewood) to the coals for a smoky flavor that complements the ribs.
By following these tips, you’ll ensure your Spicy Pork Ribs are flavorful, tender, and perfectly cooked every time. Enjoy your cooking!
Recipe FAQ’s
Can I make spicy pork ribs without a grill?
Absolutely! You can bake or slow cook the ribs for equally delicious results. Just follow the instructions for baking or slow cooking mentioned above.
How do I store leftover ribs?
Store leftover ribs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can also freeze them for up to 2 months. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.
What other sides go well with spicy pork ribs?
Besides coleslaw and cornbread, you can serve spicy pork ribs with baked beans, potato salad, or grilled vegetables for a complete meal.
Spicy Pork Ribs
Ingredients
- 2 racks of pork ribs about 4-5 pounds total
- ¼ cup brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons smoked paprika
- 1 tablespoon chili powder
- 1 tablespoon ground cumin
- 1 tablespoon garlic powder
- 1 tablespoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper adjust to taste
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon ground mustard
- ½ teaspoon ground coriander
- 1 cup barbecue sauce store-bought or homemade
- ¼ cup hot sauce your favorite brand, adjust to taste
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tablespoon honey
Instructions
- Prepare the Ribs:Preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C).Remove the thin membrane from the back of the ribs for better seasoning penetration and tenderness. Use a knife to loosen the edge of the membrane, then grab it with a paper towel and pull it off.
- Make the Spice Rub:In a small bowl, combine the brown sugar, smoked paprika, chili powder, ground cumin, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, black pepper, salt, ground mustard, and ground coriander.
- Season the Ribs:Rub the spice mixture generously over both sides of the ribs, ensuring an even coating.
- Bake the Ribs:Place the ribs on a baking sheet lined with aluminum foil or in a large roasting pan. Cover the pan tightly with aluminum foil to create a sealed environment for the ribs to steam and become tender.Bake in the preheated oven for 2.5 to 3 hours, or until the ribs are tender and the meat is starting to pull away from the bones.
- Prepare the Spicy BBQ Sauce:In a medium bowl, mix together the barbecue sauce, hot sauce, apple cider vinegar, Worcestershire sauce, and honey.
- Grill and Glaze the Ribs:Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.Remove the ribs from the oven and let them cool slightly. Brush a generous amount of the spicy BBQ sauce over both sides of the ribs.Place the ribs on the preheated grill and cook for about 5-10 minutes per side, basting with more sauce and turning occasionally, until they are nicely charred and caramelized.
- Serve:Remove the ribs from the grill and let them rest for a few minutes before cutting into individual ribs.Serve with extra spicy BBQ sauce on the side and your favorite sides such as coleslaw, cornbread, or grilled vegetables.