Barbecuing Ribs

4^th of July: fireworks, barbecued ribs, picnics and trips to the beach. I love all the holiday traditions, except one. I know this sounds like sacrilege, but my favorite barbecued ribs recipe relies on cooking in the oven.

Growing Up with Barbeque

Barbecued ribs were a passion for my father. As a neighborhood bad boy, they symbolized his flaunting of convention. He became a connoisseur. We tried ribs throughout the Detroit area and while on vacation.

Making Ribs

I joined his barbecued rib quest, but I also make my own. While it is possible to make them on the grill, I think it’s easier to control the temperature in the oven. I want a delicious meal, but it’s also a holiday. I love the idea of putting something in the oven, and giving it little attention beyond occasional basting.

My recipe owes a great debt to Ina Garten. She says: keep it simple and use the best ingredients. With that in mind I bought tender baby back ribs and a rub from Chicago’s Spice House. I often blend own spices, but I also love the unique combinations at this local store. I tried the Caribbean Calypso Seasoning, a combination of citrus peels, hot peppers, nutmeg and coriander mixed with salt.

Sauce

I’ve tried many barbecue sauce recipes. Nothing I’ve made compares to the sauce by another local favorite, Lillie’s Q. I chose their tomato – vinegar based Carolina Sauce, but they have a sauce from every barbecue region. Also, if you want the taste of outdoor cooking try their Smoky or Hot Smoky.

For more dishes for your Fourth of July celebration  try my recipes for Charred Broccoli or  a refreshing Orange and Avocado Salad.

Also for ideas for family fun on the 4th, read my tip on 30seconds.com

Recipe

Easy Barbecued Ribs in the Oven

Serves 2-4

2 racks baby back ribs

Spice House Caribbean Calypso Seasoning

Lillies Q Carolina Sauce

Sprinkle the rub on the both sides of the meat and rub it in. Refrigerate overnight or for 4 hours before cooking.

Preheat the oven to 300F. Line a baking sheet with foil. Arrange the racks meat side up and and apply a thin coating of sauce to the ribs. Tent the pan with foil. Bake for 2-2 ½ hours until the meat is falling off the bone. Apply another coating of sauce on the ribs and put under the broiler 3-5 minutes until the sauce has caramelized. Cut into sections of 3-5 ribs. Serve.