The Perfect Savory Short Ribs in Sweet BBQ Sauce Recipe / Fall-Apart Tender

Short ribs demand serious culinary attention for meat lovers seeking pure comfort.

Slow cooking crafts tough muscle fibers into meltingly rich deliciousness that surprises even experienced home cooks.

Rich barbecue sauce coats each tender morsel with complex sweet-tangy notes that sing with depth.

Hearty protein becomes incredibly succulent through patient braising techniques that unlock incredible flavor potential.

Regional cooking traditions inspire this deeply satisfying dish that connects traditional techniques with modern kitchen magic.

Robust beef absorbs marinades beautifully, creating layers of taste that dance across your palate.

Imagine pulling apart impossibly soft meat that falls away from the bone with minimal effort.

These ribs will make you the undisputed champion of weekend meal magic.

Pro Tips to Elevate Savory Short Ribs in Sweet BBQ Sauce

• Massage the Rub: Spend extra time working the spice mixture deep into the meat's surface for maximum flavor absorption.
• Control Sauce Consistency: Gradually add water to the BBQ sauce to achieve the perfect thickness that clings beautifully to the ribs.
• Watch Caramelization Closely: Monitor the ribs during the final uncovered baking to prevent burning while developing a rich, sticky glaze.
• Rest Before Serving: Allow the ribs to sit for 10-15 minutes after cooking to help the meat retain its juices and become more tender.
• Customize Spice Level: Adjust the rub and sauce ingredients to personalize the heat and flavor profile to your taste preferences.

How to Handle Leftovers for Savory Short Ribs in Sweet BBQ Sauce

• Refrigeration: Store leftover short ribs in an airtight container within 2 hours of cooking. Seal tightly to prevent moisture loss and maintain flavor integrity.
• Cooling: Let ribs cool completely before refrigerating to prevent bacterial growth. Slice or keep whole based on preference.
• Reheating: Warm ribs in a preheated oven at 160°C/320°F for 15-20 minutes. Cover with foil to retain moisture and prevent drying. Add a splash of reserved BBQ sauce to enhance tenderness and restore original succulence. Check internal temperature reaches 74°C/165°F for food safety.

What to Serve with Savory Short Ribs in Sweet BBQ Sauce

• Pair with Robust Red Wine: Select a bold Cabernet Sauvignon or Zinfandel that matches the rich, meaty flavor of the short ribs, cutting through the sweet BBQ sauce with its tannic structure.
• Complement with Creamy Sides: Serve alongside smooth mashed potatoes or a velvety cauliflower puree to balance the intense savory notes and provide a luxurious textural contrast.
• Cool Down with Crisp Coleslaw: Add a zesty, crunchy coleslaw with a tangy vinegar-based dressing to cut through the richness of the meat and provide a refreshing palate cleanser.
• Match with Craft Beer: Choose a dark, malty porter or a hoppy IPA that can stand up to the robust beef flavors and complement the caramelized BBQ sauce's sweetness.

Fun Flavor Tweaks for Savory Short Ribs in Sweet BBQ Sauce

• Smoky Chipotle Rib Delight: Replace BBQ sauce with a chipotle-based sauce using adobo sauce, smoked paprika, and a touch of honey for deeper, spicier flavor profile.
• Asian-Inspired Glazed Ribs: Swap traditional BBQ sauce with a blend of soy sauce, ginger, garlic, brown sugar, and rice vinegar for an East Asian-inspired coating.
• Spicy Bourbon Infusion: Incorporate bourbon whiskey into the BBQ sauce, adding red pepper flakes and a hint of maple syrup for a bold, warming kick.
• Mediterranean Herb Variation: Create a herb-focused rub with oregano, thyme, rosemary, and lemon zest, pairing with a lighter tomato-based sauce for a Mediterranean touch.

Top FAQs for Savory Short Ribs in Sweet BBQ Sauce Fans

• How long does it take to cook these short ribs?

The total cooking time is approximately 4 hours – 3½ hours covered at 160°C/320°F, followed by 30 minutes uncovered for caramelization.

• Can I use a different type of meat for this recipe?

While this recipe is specifically for beef short ribs, you could potentially adapt it to pork ribs, but cooking times might vary slightly.

• How do I know when the ribs are perfectly cooked?

The ribs are done when they can be easily pulled apart with a fork and have a beautifully caramelized, sticky surface.

• Can I make the BBQ sauce in advance?

Yes, you can prepare the BBQ sauce ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for a few days before using it with the ribs.

What’s So Good About Savory Short Ribs in Sweet BBQ Sauce

• These short ribs undergo a slow-cooking process that transforms tough beef into incredibly tender meat which practically falls off the bone with minimal effort.
• The two-step seasoning method using a robust dry rub and sweet BBQ sauce creates layers of complex, deeply caramelized flavors that tantalize taste buds from first bite to last.
• This recipe requires minimal active cooking time, uses simple ingredients, and delivers professional-level results even for home cooks with basic culinary skills, making gourmet dining accessible and stress-free.
• Perfect for weekend gatherings, family dinners, or casual entertaining, these ribs offer a hearty, satisfying meal that appeals to both adults and children with their irresistible combination of savory and sweet notes.

Ingredient List for Savory Short Ribs in Sweet BBQ Sauce

• Beef Short Ribs: Rich, marbled meat perfect for slow cooking, best when well-marbled and bone-in.

• Paprika, Garlic Powder, Salt, Black Pepper, Brown Sugar: Balanced seasoning blend that creates a deep, complex flavor profile for the meat.

• Tomato Ketchup, Worcestershire Sauce, Brown Sugar, Apple Cider Vinegar, Dijon Mustard: Sweet and tangy sauce base with complex flavor layers.
• Water: Helps adjust sauce consistency and prevent burning.

• Fresh Parsley, Fresh Chives: Bright, fresh herb topping that adds color and light herbal notes.

Follow These Steps for Savory Short Ribs in Sweet BBQ Sauce

Step 1: Season the Beef Ribs

• Paprika
• Brown sugar
• Salt
• Black pepper
• Garlic powder
• Onion powder

Massage the rub generously into every nook and cranny of the beef ribs. Pat the seasoning firmly to help it stick.

Step 2: Craft the Irresistible Sauce

• Ketchup
• Apple cider vinegar
• Worcestershire sauce
• Maple syrup
• Dijon mustard
• Liquid smoke

Stir the ingredients until they blend into a smooth, rich mixture.

Step 3: Nestle Ribs in Sauce

Gently place the seasoned ribs into the sauce, turning them to ensure complete coverage. Position the ribs bone-side up, creating a cozy sauce bath. Seal the pan tightly with aluminum foil.

Step 4: Slow Roast to Perfection

Slide the covered pan into the oven. Let the ribs cook low and slow for 3 1/2 hours. The meat will become incredibly tender and start pulling away from the bones.

Step 5: Caramelize and Finish

Remove the foil and flip the ribs. Brush with additional sauce to create a glossy, sticky exterior. Return to the oven uncovered for 30 minutes, basting halfway through to develop a deep, rich color.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

Test the ribs with a fork – they should fall apart effortlessly. Transfer to a beautiful serving platter. Drizzle with the remaining sauce and sprinkle with fresh chopped herbs like parsley or chives for a pop of color and freshness.

Savory Short Ribs In Sweet Bbq Sauce Tender And Flavorful Slow-Cooked Beef Ribs Recipe

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4.7 from 28 reviews

• Total Time: 4 hours 20 minutes
• Yield: 6 1x

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Description

Simmering Savory Short Ribs in Sweet BBQ Sauce deliver mouthwatering comfort straight from gourmet kitchens. Succulent beef falls off the bone, inviting diners to savor each rich, caramelized bite with pure culinary pleasure.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Meat:

• 6 beef ribs (300 – 350 grams / 10 – 12 ounces), patted dry

Spice Blend:

• 1 tablespoon brown sugar
• 2 teaspoons paprika
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 0.5 teaspoon cumin powder
• 0.75 teaspoon mustard powder
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 0.5 teaspoon black pepper
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper

Sauce Ingredients:

• 0.5 cup apple cider vinegar
• 1.5 cups ketchup
• 0.5 cup brown sugar
• 2 teaspoons black pepper
• 2 teaspoons onion powder
• 2 teaspoons mustard powder
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 2 cups water

Optional Garnish:

• Parsley or chives, chopped

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Instructions

1. Craft a zesty rub by thoroughly mixing the dry spices and herbs. Massage the seasoning blend vigorously into every crevice of the beef ribs, ensuring comprehensive coverage and gentle pressing to help the mixture adhere.
2. Create the barbecue sauce base by whisking together the liquid and dry ingredients in a spacious baking pan. Gradually incorporate water, stirring continuously until the mixture achieves a smooth, consistent texture with no lumps.
3. Nestle the seasoned ribs into the sauce, positioning them bone-side upward. Carefully drape the pan with aluminum foil, creating a tight seal to lock in moisture and prevent evaporation during the slow-cooking process.
4. Slide the covered pan into the preheated oven and allow the ribs to transform slowly, developing deep, rich flavors. After 3 1/2 hours, carefully remove the foil and flip the ribs, generously basting with the surrounding sauce.
5. Return the uncovered pan to the oven, letting the ribs caramelize and develop a glossy, sticky exterior. Periodically baste the meat to enhance its sheen and prevent drying, creating a tantalizingly glazed finish.
6. Verify the ribs’ doneness by testing with a fork – they should yield effortlessly and pull apart with minimal resistance. Gently transfer the succulent ribs to a serving platter, spooning the reduced, intensified sauce alongside as a complementary accompaniment.
7. Optional: Sprinkle fresh, finely chopped herbs over the ribs to add a vibrant, aromatic garnish that elevates the dish’s visual and flavor profile.

Notes

• Slow-cooking method guarantees melt-in-your-mouth beef ribs with intense flavor penetration.
• Dry rub creates a delicious flavor crust that locks in moisture and enhances meat’s natural richness.
• Low temperature ensures ribs become incredibly tender without drying out during extended cooking time.
• Caramelization process during final baking stage develops deep, sticky sweet-savory BBQ glaze.
• Bone-side-up positioning allows ribs to cook evenly and retain maximum juiciness throughout preparation.
• Optional fresh herb garnish adds bright, fresh contrast to rich, deep meat flavors.

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 4 hours
• Category: Dinner, Snacks
• Method: Slow Cooking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 6
• Calories: 300
• Sugar: 24g
• Sodium: 800mg
• Fat: 12g
• Saturated Fat: 4g
• Unsaturated Fat: 6g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 36g
• Fiber: 1g
• Protein: 20g
• Cholesterol: 70mg