How To Cook Country Style Ribs In The Oven Fast
Introduction
Country-style ribs, despite their name, aren’t actually ribs at all! They are cut from the pork shoulder, offering a meaty, flavorful, and often more affordable alternative to traditional ribs. This guide focuses on “how to cook country style ribs in the oven fast” a technique that maximizes both flavor and efficiency. Oven-braising is a popular method for cooking country-style ribs because it allows for even cooking and tenderization, resulting in fall-off-the-bone perfection in a shorter amount of time than traditional smoking or slow-cooking methods.
Ingredients
2-3 pounds country-style ribs 1 tablespoon olive oil 1 large onion, chopped 2 cloves garlic, minced 1 (14.5 ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained 1 cup beef broth (chicken broth can be substituted) 1/2 cup barbecue sauce (your favorite brand) 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce 1 teaspoon smoked paprika 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder 1/2 teaspoon onion powder 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for heat) Salt and pepper to taste
Preparation Steps
Before beginning, preheat the oven to 350F (175C). Pat the country-style ribs dry with paper towels. This is crucial for achieving a good sear. In a small bowl, combine the smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper (if using), salt, and pepper. Generously rub this spice mixture all over the ribs, ensuring they are evenly coated. Let the ribs sit for at least 15 minutes, or up to an hour, to allow the flavors to meld. This dry rub enhances the overall taste.
Cooking Instructions
Heat the olive oil in a large, oven-safe Dutch oven or pot over medium-high heat. Sear the country-style ribs on all sides until browned, about 2-3 minutes per side. This step develops a rich, flavorful crust. Remove the ribs from the pot and set aside. Add the chopped onion to the pot and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. Pour in the diced tomatoes, beef broth, barbecue sauce, apple cider vinegar, and Worcestershire sauce. Bring the mixture to a simmer, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot. Return the ribs to the pot, nestling them into the sauce. Ensure the ribs are mostly submerged; add a little more broth if necessary. Cover the Dutch oven with a tight-fitting lid. Transfer the pot to the preheated oven and bake for 2 to 2.5 hours, or until the ribs are very tender and easily pull apart. For added browning during the last 30 minutes, remove the lid. Check for tenderness after 2 hours. The ribs should be fork-tender, almost falling apart.
Serving Suggestions
Carefully remove the Dutch oven from the oven. Using tongs, transfer the country-style ribs to a serving platter. Spoon some of the delicious sauce over the ribs. Serve hot with your favorite sides, such as mashed potatoes, coleslaw, corn on the cob, baked beans, or cornbread. Garnish with fresh parsley or chopped green onions for added visual appeal.
Tips and Common Mistakes
Tip: Don’t skip the searing step! It adds a depth of flavor that is essential. Tip: For a sweeter flavor, add a tablespoon of brown sugar to the sauce. Common Mistake: Overcooking the ribs can make them dry. Check for tenderness regularly after 2 hours. Common Mistake: Not using a tight-fitting lid will result in the ribs drying out. If your lid isn’t perfect, cover the pot with aluminum foil before adding the lid. Tip: Adjust the barbecue sauce to your liking; use a sweeter or spicier sauce depending on your preference.
Explore More Cooking Guides
Mastering how to cook country style ribs in the oven fast provides a flavorful, comforting, and relatively quick meal that’s sure to impress. The tender, juicy meat and rich sauce make it a crowd-pleaser, perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings. The recipe’s adaptability allows for customization with different sauces and spice combinations to suit individual tastes. Try this easy oven-braising method at home and discover the deliciousness of country-style ribs! Explore more exciting and easy cooking guides at foodrecipestory.com.
