Easy Apple Cider Baby Back Ribs Recipe for Fall BBQ Flavor

Fall is the perfect season for hosting outdoor barbecues with family and friends. And what better way to impress your guests than with a mouthwatering recipe for delicious apple cider baby back ribs? These ribs are tender, juicy, and infused with the rich flavors of apple cider, making them a true fall favorite. In this Recipe, we’ll guide you through creating these fall-off-the-bone ribs that will leave everyone craving more.

Choosing the Perfect Ribs

To start, you’ll need to choose high-quality baby back ribs. These ribs come from the upper part of the pig’s ribcage and are known for their tenderness and meatiness. Look for ribs that have a good ratio of meat to bone and are well-trimmed.

Preparing the Ribs

Removing the Membrane

Before you begin seasoning the ribs, removing the thin membrane from the back of the ribs is essential. This membrane can prevent the flavors from penetrating the meat, making the ribs tough. Use a knife or your fingers to loosen the membrane from one end of the rack, then grab it with a paper towel and pull it off swiftly.

Applying the Dry Rub

To enhance the flavor of the ribs, we’ll create a dry rub using a combination of spices. Mix brown sugar, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, smoked paprika, chili powder, and other preferred spices in a small bowl. Generously coat both sides of the ribs with the dry rub, ensuring an even distribution of flavors.

Infusing Apple Cider Flavor

Marinating in Apple Cider

We’ll marinate the ribs before cooking to infuse them with the delightful taste of apple cider. Place the seasoned ribs in a large resealable plastic bag or a shallow dish. Pour enough apple cider over the ribs to cover them entirely. Seal the bag or cover the dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, preferably overnight, to allow the flavors to meld.

Preparing the Apple Cider Glaze

While the ribs are marinating, let’s prepare a mouthwatering apple cider glaze. Combine apple cider, vinegar, favorite barbecue sauce, and any additional desired seasonings in a saucepan. Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat and let it reduce until it thickens slightly. This glaze will add a sticky sweetness to the ribs and enhance their overall flavor.

Grilling the Ribs

Preparing the Grill

If you prefer the smoky flavor and charred crust that grilling provides, it’s time to fire up the grill. Preheat your grill to medium heat and ensure the grates are clean. Add apple wood chips to the grill for an extra touch of smokiness.

Cooking the Ribs

Remove the ribs from the marinade and let any excess liquid drip off. Place the ribs on the grill, bone side down, and close the lid. Allow the ribs to cook for approximately 15 minutes, flip them over, and brush the meat side with the apple cider glaze. Repeat this process every 10-15 minutes, brushing the ribs with the glaze until they are perfectly cooked. The ribs are done when the meat is tender and starts to pull away from the bone. This process usually takes 1.5 to 2 hours, depending on the ribs’ thickness and the grill’s temperature.

Oven-Baked Option

Preheating the Oven

If you don’t have access to a grill or prefer the convenience of using your oven, you can still achieve flavorful and tender ribs. Preheat your oven to 250 degrees Fahrenheit (120 degrees Celsius) to ensure low and slow cooking.

Baking the Ribs

Place the marinated ribs on a rimmed baking sheet lined with aluminum foil. Tightly seal the ribs in two layers of foil, creating a packet to lock in the moisture and flavors. Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and let the ribs bake for approximately 2.5 to 3 hours, or until the meat is tender and easily pulls away from the bone.

Adding the Final Touches

Glazing the Ribs

Once the ribs are cooked, it’s time to add the final touch of deliciousness. Remove the ribs from the grill or oven and carefully unwrap them from the foil. Brush both sides of the ribs with the remaining apple cider glaze, ensuring they are evenly coated. This step adds a glossy finish and intensifies the flavor.

Resting and Serving

Before diving into your succulent ribs, allow them to rest for a few minutes. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more flavorful and tender bite. Once rested, transfer the ribs to a platter, cut them into individual portions, and serve them with your favorite barbecue sides. Whether it’s creamy coleslaw, cornbread, or grilled vegetables, these apple cider baby back ribs will be the highlight of your fall barbecue.

Ingredients

For the Ribs

• 2 racks of baby back ribs
• 1 cup apple cider
• 1/2 cup apple cider vinegar
• 1/4 cup brown sugar
• 1/4 cup honey
• 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• Salt and pepper to taste

For the Dry Rub

• 2 tablespoons paprika
• 1 tablespoon brown sugar
• 1 tablespoon chili powder
• 1 tablespoon garlic powder
• 1 tablespoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon ground black pepper
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)

For the Glaze

• 1 cup apple cider
• 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
• 1/4 cup brown sugar
• 2 tablespoons honey
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard

Instructions

Preparing the Ribs

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. Remove the Membrane: Remove the thin membrane from the back of the ribs. This step is crucial for tender ribs.
3. Apply the Dry Rub: Combine the ingredients for the dry rub in a small bowl. Generously rub the mixture all over the ribs and coat both sides evenly.

Cooking the Ribs

1. Prepare the Apple Cider Marinade: In a large bowl, combine apple cider, apple cider vinegar, brown sugar, honey, Dijon mustard, soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, and minced garlic. Mix well.
2. Marinate the Ribs: Place the ribs in a large roasting pan or baking dish. Pour the apple cider marinade over the ribs. Cover the pan tightly with aluminum foil.
3. Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 2.5 to 3 hours, or until the ribs are tender and the meat starts pulling away from the bones.

Preparing the Glaze

1. Combine the Glaze Ingredients: In a small saucepan, combine apple cider, apple cider vinegar, brown sugar, honey, and Dijon mustard. Bring to a simmer over medium heat and cook until the mixture is slightly thickened about 10-15 minutes.
2. Glaze the Ribs: Remove the ribs from the oven and discard the marinade. Brush the ribs generously with the apple cider glaze.

Grilling the Ribs

1. Preheat the Grill: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat if you prefer a smoky flavor and caramelized exterior.
2. Grill the Ribs: Place the ribs on the grill and cook for 5-7 minutes per side, basting with the glaze and turning frequently until the ribs are caramelized and slightly charred.

Serving

1. Rest the Ribs: Let the ribs rest for a few minutes before cutting.
2. Cut and Serve: Slice the ribs between the bones and serve with additional glaze on the side.

Enhancing Your Barbecue Experience

Perfect Side Dishes

Complement your apple cider baby back ribs with a selection of delicious side dishes. Consider serving creamy mashed potatoes, tangy coleslaw, buttery cornbread, or grilled vegetables. These sides will balance the flavors and add variety to your barbecue spread.

Beverage Pairings

Pair your ribs with refreshing beverages that complement their rich flavors. Apple cider, of course, is a perfect match, but you can also offer your guests iced tea, lemonade, or a selection of craft beers. The right drinks can enhance the overall dining experience.

Setting the Scene

Set up your outdoor space with comfortable seating, warm blankets, and ambient lighting to create a cozy and inviting atmosphere for your fall barbecue. Decorate with autumnal touches like pumpkins, hay bales, and seasonal flowers to enhance the fall vibe.

Tips for a Successful Barbecue

Planning Ahead

Preparation is key to a successful barbecue. Plan your menu, gather all the ingredients, and prepare as much as possible in advance. Marinate the ribs the night before and have all your side dishes and beverages ready.

Managing the Grill

Keep a close eye on your grill to ensure it is even cooking. Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the ribs and avoid overcooking. Remember to baste the ribs regularly with the apple cider glaze to keep them moist and flavorful.

Entertaining Guests

While the ribs are cooking, engage your guests with fun activities. Set up lawn games like cornhole or horseshoes, play some lively music, and create a relaxed atmosphere where everyone can enjoy themselves.

Frequently Asked Questions

Conclusion

In conclusion, this delicious apple cider baby back ribs recipe is a surefire way to impress your guests with fall flavors. Whether you grill or bake them, the tender and juicy ribs infused with apple cider will be the star of your barbecue. Follow the step-by-step instructions, and soon you’ll savor the mouthwatering taste of these fall-off-the-bone ribs. Don’t forget to pair them with your favorite barbecue sides and enjoy the ultimate fall feast!