The Art Of Making The Perfect Slab Of Ribs In The Oven

Cleaning and Preparation

Before you start cooking the ribs, you’ll need to clean and prepare them. Begin by removing the thin membrane on the back of the ribs, which is known as the silver skin. This can be done by slipping a butter knife under the membrane and then pulling it off.

Next, rinse the ribs under cold water and pat them dry with paper towels. Then, place them on a baking sheet or in a large roasting pan.

Tips for Making the Perfect Ribs

Here are some tips to ensure that your slab of ribs turns out perfectly:

1. Season the ribs generously with a dry rub. A combination of paprika, brown sugar, salt, pepper, and garlic powder works well.
2. Wrap the ribs tightly in aluminum foil to keep the moisture in and prevent them from drying out.
3. Cook the ribs low and slow in a preheated oven at 225°F to 250°F for 3 to 4 hours. This slow cooking time will allow the flavor to develop and the meat to become tender.
4. Baste the ribs with BBQ sauce during the last 30 minutes of cooking. This will give them a nice glaze and add some extra flavor.
5. Let the ribs rest for 10 to 15 minutes after removing them from the oven. This will allow the juices to redistribute throughout the meat and make the ribs more tender.

Recipe for Making the Best Slab of Ribs in The Oven

Now that we’ve gone over the food science, selection, cleaning, preparation, and tips for making the perfect slab of ribs, let’s take a look at the recipe.

Ingredients

• 1 slab of pork ribs
• 1/4 cup of paprika
• 1/4 cup of brown sugar
• 1 tablespoon of salt
• 1 tablespoon of black pepper
• 1 tablespoon of garlic powder
• 1 cup of BBQ sauce

Method

1. Preheat your oven to 225°F to 250°F.
2. In a small bowl, combine the paprika, brown sugar, salt, black pepper, and garlic powder to make the rub.
3. Remove the silver skin from the back of the ribs and rinse them under cold water. Pat them dry with paper towels.
4. Generously rub the spice mixture all over the ribs, making sure to coat both sides.
5. Wrap the ribs tightly in aluminum foil and place them on a baking sheet or in a large roasting pan.
6. Cook the ribs in the preheated oven for 3 to 4 hours.
7. During the last 30 minutes of cooking, baste the ribs with BBQ sauce.
8. Remove the ribs from the oven and let them rest for 10 to 15 minutes before slicing and serving.

Doneness Checks

You can check the doneness of the ribs by inserting a meat thermometer into the thickest part of the meat. The internal temperature should be around 180°F to 190°F when the ribs are fully cooked.

Overcook and Undercook

Overcooking the ribs can cause them to be dry and tough, while undercooking can result in chewy and under-seasoned meat. To avoid these issues, follow the recipe and our tips for making the perfect slab of ribs.

Variations

There are many ways to vary this recipe and make it your own. Here are a few ideas:

• Change up the dry rub by using different spices or adding herbs like rosemary or thyme.
• Use a different type of BBQ sauce or make your own from scratch.
• Experiment with different cooking methods like smoking or grilling the ribs.

Conclusion

In conclusion, making the perfect slab of ribs in the oven requires attention to detail, patience, and the right ingredients. However, by following the tips and recipe outlined in this article, you’ll be able to create a slab of ribs that are moist, flavorful, and fall-off-the-bone tender. So grab your apron and get ready to impress your family and friends with your newfound rib-making skills.

Sources

FAQS On Slab Of Ribs Oven Recipe

What Is A Slab Of Ribs?

A slab of ribs refers to a full rack of pork or beef ribs, typically consisting of 10-13 bones. It is a popular cut of meat, known for its tenderness and mouthwatering flavor when cooked properly.

How Long Does It Take To Cook A Slab Of Ribs In The Oven?

Cooking times may vary depending on the recipe and desired level of tenderness. However, as a general guideline, it typically takes around 2.5 to 3 hours to cook a slab of ribs in the oven at a temperature of 275°F (135°C). Low and slow cooking ensures tender meat that easily falls off the bone.

How Do I Prepare The Slab Of Ribs Before Cooking In The Oven?

Before cooking, it is essential to remove the thin, translucent membrane from the bone side of the slab. This can be done by gently loosening the membrane using a butter knife, then gripping it with a paper towel and pulling it off completely. Season the ribs generously with your preferred dry rub or marinade, allowing it to penetrate the meat for a more flavorful result.

What Is The Best Way To Cook Ribs In The Oven To Achieve A Tender And Juicy Texture?

For an optimal outcome, it is recommended to use the "low and slow" cooking method. Start by preheating the oven to 275°F (135°C). Place the prepared slab of ribs on a baking sheet or a wire rack set inside a baking dish. Cover the ribs tightly with aluminum foil to help retain moisture. Bake in the oven for approximately 2.5 to 3 hours, or until the meat is tender and easily pulls apart. For extra tenderness, you can also baste the ribs with a flavorful sauce during the last 30 minutes of cooking.

Can I Achieve A Smoky Flavor When Cooking Ribs In The Oven?

While the oven method doesn’t provide a direct smoky flavor like grilling, you can add a touch of smokiness by using liquid smoke. Simply mix a few drops of liquid smoke with your dry rub or marinade to infuse the ribs with a subtle smoky taste. Additionally, you can finish the ribs under the broiler for a few minutes after baking to achieve a slightly charred appearance, mimicking the caramelization achieved on a grill.