The Ultimate Guide to Homemade BBQ Ribs Sauces and Cooking Techniques

When it comes to BBQ ribs, the right sauce can make or break the experience. While some prefer to buy store-bought sauces, others enjoy the satisfaction of making their own. In this guide, we will explore the best homemade BBQ ribs sauce, provide a recipe for a classic homemade sauce, and share our personal favorite cooking techniques for achieving perfectly cooked ribs.

The Best Homemade BBQ Ribs Sauce: A Flavorful Blend

When?you find yourself in a hurry to make?BBQ ribs, but don't have the time to prepare a homemade sauce from scratch, it's perfectly fine to use a store-bought sauce like Sweet Baby Ray's. However, with a bit more effort, you can enhance the flavor of store-bought sauces by adding your own unique twist. Below is a recipe that we find works wonderfully:

A Classic Homemade BBQ Sauce Recipe

Ingredients:

4 tablespoons margarine 1/2 cup vegetable oil 1/2 cup sugar 3 tablespoons ketchup Lemon juice (freshly squeezed, about 1 tablespoon) 1 tablespoon salt 1 tablespoon black pepper 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce 1/2 cup vinegar (any type will work) 2 teaspoons red pepper flakes

Instructions:

Combine all the ingredients in a saucepan until well mixed. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for 5-10 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent burning. Let the sauce cool down to room temperature before serving.

According to some, this "secret recipe" hails from a popular barbecue restaurant in the 1960s in your home town, and it has stood the test of time. Whether you're a seasoned BBQ enthusiast or a beginner, this versatile sauce can complement a wide range of ribs.

Our Personal Preference: Sauce on the Side

As a personal preference, I?like to serve the ribs with the sauce on the side rather than slathering them with it during cooking. This allows you to enjoy the natural flavors of the ribs and the added richness of the sauce without overwhelming the taste. If you opt to serve the ribs with sauce, do so after they have been cooked to perfection.

Experimenting with Different Sauces

One of the joys of BBQ ribs is the variety of sauces that can complement the delicious meat. Some people prefer sweet sauces, others enjoy spicy ones, while others like tomato-based or vinegar/mustard flavors. Experimenting with different sauces can help you find the perfect match for your taste buds.

Our Favorite BBQ Ribs Cooking Techniques

While a great sauce is a necessary part of the BBQ ribs experience, the cooking technique also plays a crucial role. Here is my go-to recipe for perfectly cooked BBQ ribs:

Ingredients:

A dry rub made from: 1/4 cup brown sugar 5 teaspoons salt 3 teaspoons celery seed Additional spices (optional): powdered coriander, cumin, mustard seed, fennel, or cayenne pepper Uncooked pulled pork or spare ribs (about 2-3 pounds)

Instructions:

Prepare the dry rub by mixing the brown sugar, salt, and celery seed. Add any additional spices of your choice based on personal preference. Rub the ribs with the dry mixture and wrap them in a plastic bag. Place the ribs on a plate and refrigerate overnight. You can even let them sit for 2-3 days for best results. Let the ribs come to room temperature before cooking. Place a rack inside a large baking pan, and fill it with enough water to leave about 1 inch of space between the water and the bottom of the ribs. Place the ribs in the pan and cover tightly with foil. Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C). Allow the ribs to cook for 2-3 hours, checking every hour to ensure the water level is sufficient. Add a cup or so of water if needed. Once cooked, remove the ribs from the oven and discard the foil.

This method ensures moist and tender ribs, while the dry rub adds a delicious layer of flavor.

Conclusion

The art of making perfect BBQ ribs is a highly personal and often debated topic. Whether you choose a homemade sauce or stick to a store-bought option, the key is to find what pleases your taste buds the most. Experiment with different cooking techniques and sauces to discover your favorite combination. Happy cooking!