Spicy Pork Ribs Recipe

Sizzling Spicy Pork Ribs Recipe: Finger-Licking Flavor Feast

Succulent and smoky pork ribs spark excitement in every barbecue enthusiast’s heart.

Marinades infuse deep flavors that make taste buds dance with anticipation.

Grilling techniques can elevate humble meat into a culinary masterpiece.

Tender meat falling off the bone promises pure satisfaction.

Seasoned cooks understand that patience creates magic on the grill.

Our secret blend of spices ensures each bite delivers maximum deliciousness.

You’ll want to bookmark this recipe for your next weekend cookout.

Why Spicy Pork Ribs Recipe Is So Flavorful

  • Bold spices and homemade BBQ sauce create an incredible taste profile that transforms ordinary pork ribs into a mouthwatering culinary experience.
  • Simple step-by-step process allows both novice and experienced cooks to achieve professional-level results with minimal kitchen skills required.
  • Ideal for backyard barbecues, game day parties, and family reunions where everyone craves hearty, deliciously spicy meat that sparks conversation and brings people together.
  • Flexible recipe lets you adjust spice levels and ingredients, making it adaptable for different taste preferences and dietary needs while maintaining incredible taste.

Spicy Pork Ribs Recipe Ingredient List

Meat Base:
  • Pork Ribs: Tender cut of meat perfect for slow cooking and grilling.
Spice Rub Ingredients:
  • Brown Sugar, Smoked Paprika, Chili Powder, Ground Cumin, Garlic Powder, Onion Powder, Cayenne Pepper, Black Pepper, Salt, Ground Mustard, Ground Coriander: Blend of spices creating a complex and spicy flavor profile.
Sauce Ingredients:
  • Barbecue Sauce, Hot Sauce, Apple Cider Vinegar, Worcestershire Sauce, Honey: Sweet, tangy, and spicy combination for glazing and adding extra flavor to the ribs.
Additional Components:
  • Aluminum Foil: Used for creating a sealed cooking environment.
  • Paper Towel: Helpful for removing rib membrane.

How to Cook Spicy Pork Ribs Recipe

Step 1: Unwrap and Clean Ribs

Remove ribs from packaging and carefully strip off the tough membrane from the back using a paper towel and knife.

Pull the membrane completely away to help seasonings penetrate the meat and create a more tender result.

Step 2: Create Flavor Explosion Rub

Combine these exciting spices in a mixing bowl:
  • Brown sugar
  • Smoked paprika
  • Chili powder
  • Ground cumin
  • Garlic powder
  • Onion powder
  • Cayenne pepper
  • Black pepper
  • Salt
  • Ground mustard
  • Ground coriander

Mix the spices thoroughly until they create a fragrant and bold seasoning blend.

Step 3: Massage Ribs with Spices

Generously coat both sides of the ribs with the spice mixture.

Use your hands to press and rub the seasonings deep into the meat, ensuring every inch is covered with the flavorful blend.

Step 4: Slow Roast to Tenderness

Place ribs on a foil-lined baking sheet and completely wrap with aluminum foil.

Slide into a preheated oven at 300°F.

Allow ribs to slow cook for 2.5 to 3 hours until the meat becomes incredibly tender and starts pulling away from the bones.

Step 5: Craft Fiery Sauce

Whisk together in a bowl:
  • Barbecue sauce
  • Hot sauce
  • Apple cider vinegar
  • Worcestershire sauce
  • Honey

Blend ingredients until a smooth, tangy, and spicy sauce develops.

Step 6: Caramelize on the Grill

Remove ribs from oven and let cool slightly.

Brush ribs generously with the spicy sauce.

Grill over medium-high heat for 5-10 minutes per side, turning occasionally and basting with additional sauce until beautifully charred and caramelized.

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy

Transfer grilled ribs to a serving platter.

Cut into individual portions.

Serve with extra sauce on the side and classic accompaniments like coleslaw, cornbread, or grilled vegetables.

Helpful Tips for Spicy Pork Ribs Recipe

  • Pull off the thin membrane using a paper towel for maximum flavor absorption and incredibly tender meat that falls right off the bone.
  • Massage the spice blend thoroughly into every inch of the ribs to ensure deep, consistent seasoning that penetrates the meat completely.
  • Cover ribs tightly with foil during initial cooking to create a steamy environment that breaks down tough connective tissues, resulting in melt-in-your-mouth texture.
  • Brush BBQ sauce during grilling in multiple layers to build complex caramelization and prevent burning while creating a sticky, delicious exterior.
  • Allow ribs to rest after grilling for a few minutes, which helps redistribute juices and ensures each bite remains incredibly moist and flavorful.

Store and Reheat Spicy Pork Ribs Recipe Right

  • Store leftover ribs in an airtight container within 2 hours of cooking. Wrap tightly in aluminum foil or plastic wrap to prevent drying out. Keep refrigerated for 3-4 days.
  • Place cooled ribs in freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags. Remove excess air to prevent freezer burn. Freeze for up to 3 months. Label with date and contents.
  • Preheat oven to 250°F. Wrap ribs in aluminum foil with a splash of water or leftover BBQ sauce to maintain moisture. Heat for 20-25 minutes until internal temperature reaches 165°F.
  • Warm ribs on low heat, brushing with additional BBQ sauce. Grill for 5-7 minutes, turning occasionally to prevent burning and ensure even heating.

Great Pairings for Spicy Pork Ribs Recipe

  • Zesty Beer Pairing: Complement the spicy pork ribs with a hoppy IPA or amber ale that cuts through the rich meat and matches the bold seasoning.
  • Cooling Beverage Contrast: Serve a crisp, cold pilsner or wheat beer to balance the heat and provide a refreshing counterpoint to the spicy BBQ glaze.
  • Sweet Wine Harmony: Choose a slightly sweet Riesling or Gewürztraminer to offset the ribs' spiciness and enhance the smoky, caramelized flavors.
  • Tangy Sidekick Recommendation: Pair with a classic coleslaw or pickled vegetables to add a crunchy, acidic element that complements the tender, spicy meat.

Flavor Variants for Spicy Pork Ribs Recipe

  • Vegetarian Rib Alternative: Replace pork ribs with large portobello mushrooms or seitan strips, maintaining the same spice rub and grilling technique for a plant-based version.
  • Gluten-Free Adaptation: Use gluten-free barbecue sauce and replace Worcestershire sauce with tamari or coconut aminos to make the recipe celiac-friendly.
  • Low-Carb Option: Substitute brown sugar in the spice rub with monk fruit sweetener and reduce honey in the BBQ sauce to minimize carbohydrate content, keeping the spicy flavor profile intact.
  • Slow Cooker Method: Prepare ribs in a slow cooker instead of oven, cooking on low for 6-7 hours with the spice rub, then finishing under the broiler or on the grill for caramelization.

FAQs

  • What makes the spice rub special?

The spice rub combines multiple spices like smoked paprika, chili powder, cumin, and cayenne to create a complex, layered heat that enhances the pork’s natural flavor without overwhelming it.

  • Can I make this recipe without a grill?

Yes, you can finish the ribs in the oven. After baking, brush with BBQ sauce and broil for 5-10 minutes, watching carefully to prevent burning, to achieve similar caramelization and char.

  • How do I know when the ribs are perfectly tender?

The ribs are done when the meat starts pulling away from the bones and can be easily pierced with a fork. They should feel soft and almost ready to fall apart when gently pulled.

  • Is removing the membrane really necessary?

Yes, removing the membrane helps seasonings penetrate the meat better and makes the ribs more tender. It also prevents a tough, chewy texture that can make eating ribs less enjoyable.

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Spicy Pork Ribs Recipe

Spicy Pork Ribs Recipe


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4.8 from 32 reviews

  • Total Time: 3 hours 10 minutes
  • Yield: 4 1x

Description

Mouthwatering Spicy Pork Ribs elevate classic barbecue with a fiery kick that dances across taste buds. Perfectly seasoned and slow-cooked, these ribs promise a delectable journey you’ll savor from first bite to last.


Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients:

  • 2 racks of pork ribs (about 45 pounds total)
  • 1 cup barbecue sauce (store-bought or homemade)
  • 1/4 cup hot sauce
  • 1/4 cup brown sugar

Spices and Seasonings:

  • 2 tablespoons smoked paprika
  • 1 tablespoon chili powder
  • 1 tablespoon ground cumin
  • 1 tablespoon garlic powder
  • 1 tablespoon onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper
  • 1 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground mustard
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground coriander

Liquid Ingredients:

  • 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
  • 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 tablespoon honey

Instructions

  1. Prepare the workspace by preheating the oven to 300°F and gathering all necessary tools and ingredients.
  2. Carefully remove the membrane from the back of the ribs using a knife and paper towel, pulling it off completely to enhance seasoning absorption.
  3. Create a robust spice blend by thoroughly mixing brown sugar, smoked paprika, chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne, black pepper, salt, ground mustard, and ground coriander in a small bowl.
  4. Massage the spice mixture meticulously across both surfaces of the ribs, ensuring comprehensive and uniform coverage.
  5. Position the seasoned ribs on a foil-lined baking sheet, wrapping tightly with aluminum foil to lock in moisture and promote tenderness.
  6. Roast in the preheated oven for 2.5 to 3 hours until the meat begins to separate from the bones, indicating perfect slow-cooking.
  7. While ribs are cooking, whisk together barbecue sauce, hot sauce, apple cider vinegar, Worcestershire sauce, and honey to create a complex, spicy glaze.
  8. After initial cooking, remove ribs from oven and allow brief cooling before transferring to a preheated grill at medium-high heat.
  9. Generously brush the prepared spicy sauce over the ribs, grilling for 5-10 minutes per side until achieving a caramelized, slightly charred exterior.
  10. Let the grilled ribs rest momentarily before cutting into individual portions, serving with additional sauce and complementary side dishes like coleslaw or cornbread.

Notes

  • Remove the membrane carefully to ensure the spices penetrate deeply and the meat becomes more tender during cooking.
  • Massage the spice rub thoroughly into the meat, pressing firmly to help the seasonings adhere and create a flavorful crust.
  • Use a low and slow cooking method in the oven to break down tough connective tissues, resulting in fall-off-the-bone tender ribs.
  • Prep Time: 30 minutes
  • Cook Time: 2 hours 40 minutes
  • Category: Dinner, Appetizer
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: Asian

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 4
  • Calories: 550
  • Sugar: 20 g
  • Sodium: 800 mg
  • Fat: 32 g
  • Saturated Fat: 10 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 18 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 32 g
  • Fiber: 1 g
  • Protein: 35 g
  • Cholesterol: 100 mg
Olivia Bennett

Olivia Bennett

Recipe Developer & Culinary Educator

Expertise

  • Showcasing ingredients in plant-forward vegetarian dishes.
  • Creating adaptable weeklong menu templates centered on seasonal produce.

Education

Schoolcraft College

  • Program: Culinary Arts Associate Degree
  • Focus: Comprehensive training in culinary techniques, menu planning, and food safety.

With an Associate Degree in Culinary Arts from Schoolcraft College and a natural knack for teaching, Olivia Bennett’s all about making home cooking feel possible, even on your busiest day.
Her thing? Recipes that are budget-friendly, season-forward, and full of Southern warmth. Whether it’s a roasted veggie bowl or a five-ingredient skillet bake, Olivia makes sure it’s simple, satisfying, and something you’ll want to make again tomorrow.
When she’s not shooting step-by-step videos or testing spice blends, she’s out foraging, flipping through old cookbooks, or throwing laid-back dinner parties with a BYO-mason-jar theme.

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