How to Cook the Best Oven-Baked Ribs

Slowly cooked ribs are one of the most popular restaurant and family entrees today, and for good reason. This classic, meaty meal is easy to prepare and fun to eat. With the following tips for cooking spectacular ribs, your ribs are sure to impress and satisfy at your next picnic or gathering.

Place two racks of baby back ribs on a sheet of heavy-duty aluminum foil. The foil should be large enough that the ribs can be wrapped easily after preparation. Combine the following ingredients in a bowl:

• 1/2 cup brown sugar (packed)
• 3 tablespoons of kosher salt
• 3 tablespoons chili powder
• 2 tablespoons onion powder
• 1 tablespoon dry mustard
• 1 tablespoon garlic powder
• 1/2 tablespoon ground thyme
• 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon allspice

Sprinkle this mixture liberally on both sides of the racks and pat deeply into the meat. Wrap with the foil tightly and refrigerate for at least six hours (preferably overnight for best results).

Preheat your oven to 250 degrees and place the prepared ribs (still wrapped in foil) on a baking sheet or roasting pan. Bake in the oven for approximately 2 hours, removing to baste in barbecue sauce if desired. Return ribs to the oven for another 30 minutes or until meat begins to naturally pull away from the ends of the bones. This means the meat is fully cooked and ready to be removed from the heat. Allow the ribs to rest for approximately 15 to 20 minutes before serving.

For a tangy treat, skip the barbecue sauce toward the end of cooking time and use this honey soy glaze instead. Combine 1/2 cup soy sauce with 1/2 cup honey and 1 tablespoon of white rice wine. Slather over the ribs and enjoy a sweet and tropical rack of ribs. Or try mixing together 2 tablespoons cider vinegar, 1 cup of dijon mustard, and 2 tablespoons of honey. Brush on for a spicy sweet concoction the whole family will love.

Cook the perfect rack of ribs with a recipe that promises tender, juicy goodness