This recipe provides a simple method for creating exceptionally tender and flavorful ribs, topped with a rich garlic butter sauce. The combination of slow-cooking in the oven and a quick finish on the grill or broiler ensures a perfect result every time.

 

Ingredients

 

For the Ribs:

  • 1 rack of St. Louis style ribs

  • Worcestershire sauce (as a binder)

  • 1/4 cup plain white vinegar

For the Dry Rub:

  • Garlic powder

  • Smoked paprika

  • Chipotle chili powder

  • Kosher salt

  • Black pepper

For the Garlic Butter Sauce:

  • 8 large cloves of garlic, finely chopped

  • Butter

  • Honey

  • Soy sauce

  • Worcestershire sauce

  • Fresh lemon juice

 

Rib Preparation

 

  1. Make the Rub: In a small bowl, combine garlic powder, smoked paprika, chipotle chili powder, kosher salt, and pepper.

  2. Prepare the Ribs: This recipe works best with St. Louis style ribs. Before cooking, you may choose to remove the membrane from the back of the ribs. This can be done by using a knife to lift the edge and then pulling it off with a paper towel. Trim any excess fat if desired.

  3. Apply Binder and Seasoning: Use a binder, such as Worcestershire sauce, to help the rub stick to the meat. Rub a few drops of the sauce on both sides of the ribs, then generously apply the seasoning rub to both sides.

  4. Oven Cooking: Place the seasoned ribs on a baking sheet with a rack. Pour about 1/4 cup of plain white vinegar into the bottom of the pan to help tenderize the meat. Cover the pan tightly with foil and bake in a preheated 350°F (175°C) oven for about 1.5 hours, or until the ribs are super tender.

 

Garlic Butter Sauce

 

  1. Chop the Garlic: Finely chop about 8 large cloves of garlic. Smashing the cloves first can make them easier to peel.

  2. Melt Butter: Melt butter in a pot over low heat, being careful not to let it brown.

  3. Infuse the Garlic: Add the chopped garlic to the melted butter and let it simmer on very low heat for a couple of minutes.

  4. Add Final Ingredients: Stir in honey, a little soy sauce, more Worcestershire sauce, and fresh lemon juice.

  5. Simmer: Allow the sauce to simmer on low heat for 5 minutes, then remove it from the heat and set it aside.

 

Finishing and Serving

 

  1. Remove Ribs from Oven: Carefully lift the foil, allowing the steam to escape. Discard the liquid from the pan. The ribs will be very tender at this point.

  2. Apply the Sauce: Warm up the garlic butter sauce and generously paint it on both sides of the ribs.

  3. Grilling Method: Place the ribs on a hot grill. Be mindful of flare-ups from the dripping butter and move the ribs as needed. Since the ribs are already cooked, this step only takes a few minutes to add char and flavor.

  4. Broiler Method (Alternative): If you don’t have a grill, you can use the broiler. After applying the sauce, place the ribs under the broiler until they have a nice color.

  5. Serve: Once the ribs are heated through and have a good color, remove them from the heat. Let them rest briefly before cutting and serving.