Craving tender, flavorful ribs that melt in the mouth? Discover the step-by-step recipe and tips to master the perfect oven-cooked ribs now!
Pork ribs have long been a beloved dish for many, prized for their rich flavor and tender texture when cooked properly. This particular recipe takes a slightly advanced approach, focusing on slow-cooking the ribs at a low temperature to achieve that coveted fall-off-the-bone tenderness while infusing the meat with a simple yet bold seasoning blend. The method relies on patience and careful preparation, resulting in a mouthwatering meal that’s perfect for both casual family dinners and special occasions.
The journey to perfectly cooked pork ribs begins with the selection of quality ribs. Opting for fresh pork ribs weighing about two pounds ensures an ideal balance of meat and fat. This balance is essential because the fat renders during the slow cooking process, keeping the meat moist and flavorful. Before seasoning, removing the silvery membrane on the bone side of the ribs is a recommended step. Although it is not absolutely mandatory, this membrane can sometimes become tough when cooked, so taking it off helps enhance the texture and allows the seasoning to penetrate more deeply.
Seasoning is crucial to complement the natural flavors of the pork. This recipe uses a straightforward combination of salt, paprika, and mustard. Salt acts as a flavor enhancer and helps tenderize the meat. Paprika adds a subtle smokiness and a vibrant color that makes the ribs visually appealing. Mustard, often an overlooked ingredient in rib recipes, contributes a tangy undertone and acts as a binding agent, helping the dry spices stick firmly to the meat.
After thoroughly mixing the seasoning ingredients, the ribs are brushed or rubbed with the mustard and spice mixture. This ensures an even coating that will form a delicious crust during cooking. Placing the seasoned ribs on a tray sets the stage for the slow-cooking process. For those who enjoy vegetables alongside meat, adding a selection of hearty vegetables beneath or around the ribs allows them to cook in the flavorful drippings, making for a convenient and tasty side dish.
The ribs are then covered tightly with a lid, tin foil, or another tray to seal in moisture, preventing the meat from drying out during the lengthy cooking period. The oven is set to a low temperature range of 225°F to 250°F (110°C to 120°C), ideal for breaking down the connective tissues slowly without overcooking the exterior. The ribs cook gently for four to six hours, a timeframe that requires patience but rewards with exceptional tenderness and flavor.
Throughout the cooking process, the aroma of the ribs filling the kitchen builds anticipation. Once removed from the oven, the ribs can be served immediately, offering a tender, juicy, and flavorful experience. The slow-cooked technique ensures each bite is succulent and tender, while the simple seasoning highlights the natural taste of the pork without overwhelming it.
This recipe is a celebration of traditional slow-cooked pork ribs, demonstrating how basic ingredients combined with careful technique can produce a truly memorable dish. Whether for a family meal or a gathering with friends, these ribs showcase the depth of flavor and tenderness achievable with time and attention in the kitchen. The result is a dish that invites savoring every bite, pairing beautifully with a variety of side dishes and sauces.
Ingredients
- 2 lb / 1kg Pork ribs
- 1 tablespoon / 5g Salt
- 1 tablespoon / 3.5g Paprika
- 1 tablespoon / 15g Mustard
How to make pork ribs in the oven
- Take the pork ribs and remove the silvery layer from the bones. It is not absolutely necessary but many do it for one reason or the other. Mix salt, paprika and mustard in a cup. Brush or rub the meat with the mustard, paprika, salt mix.
- Put the seasoned pork rib onto a tray. Add some vegetables for later serving if desired.
- Cover the tray with some sort of lid, tin foil or another tray then place it into a 225°F – 250°F / 110°C – 120°C oven until tender for about 4-6 hours.Cover the tray with some sort of lid, tin foil or another tray then place it into a 225°F – 250°F / 110°C – 120°C oven until tender for about 4-6 hours.
Enjoy!
Star this recipe!
Pork Ribs – Advanced
Ingredients
- 2 lbs Pork ribs
- 1 tablespoon Salt
- 1 tablespoon Paprika
- 1 tablespoon Mustard
Instructions
- Take the pork ribs and remove the silvery layer from the bones. It is not absolutely necessary but many do it for one reason or the other. Mix salt, paprika and mustard in a cup. Brush or rub the meat with the mustard, paprika, salt mix.
- Put the seasoned pork rib onto a tray. Add some vegetables for later serving if desired.
- Cover the tray with some sort of lid, tin foil or another tray then place it into a 225°F – 250°F / 110°C – 120°C oven until tender for about 4-6 hours.
