Smoky BBQ Ribs Served with Crunchy Coleslaw

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A classic combination of tender, smoky ribs coated in a flavorful BBQ glaze, served with a refreshing, crunchy coleslaw. Perfect for any barbecue or family gathering!

Ingredients

For the BBQ Ribs:

  • 2 racks baby back ribs

  • 1/4 cup olive oil

  • 1/4 cup brown sugar

  • 2 tablespoons paprika

  • 1 tablespoon garlic powder

  • 1 tablespoon onion powder

  • 1 tablespoon salt

  • 1 teaspoon black pepper

  • 1 teaspoon chili powder

  • 1 teaspoon cumin

  • 1 cup BBQ sauce (your favorite kind)

For the Coleslaw:

  • 4 cups shredded cabbage (green or purple)

  • 1 medium carrot, shredded

  • 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar

  • 1/4 cup mayonnaise

  • 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard

  • 1 teaspoon sugar

  • Salt and pepper, to taste

Directions

For the BBQ Ribs:

1️⃣ Preheat & Prepare

  • Preheat the oven to 300°F (150°C).

  • Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil and set a wire rack on top.

2️⃣ Season the Ribs

  • Pat the ribs dry with paper towels and remove the silver skin from the back.

  • Rub olive oil evenly over the ribs.

  • In a small bowl, mix together brown sugar, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, black pepper, chili powder, and cumin.

  • Generously rub this spice mixture over both sides of the ribs.

3️⃣ Slow Bake

  • Place the ribs bone side down on the wire rack.

  • Cover with foil and bake for 2.5–3 hours, until the ribs are tender.

4️⃣ BBQ Glaze

  • Remove the foil and brush the BBQ sauce generously over the ribs.

  • Return to the oven and bake uncovered for an additional 30 minutes to caramelize the sauce.

5️⃣ Rest & Slice

  • Let the ribs rest for 10 minutes before slicing into portions.

For the Coleslaw:

1️⃣ Mix the Veggies

  • In a large bowl, combine the shredded cabbage and carrot.

2️⃣ Make the Dressing

  • In a small bowl, whisk together apple cider vinegar, mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, sugar, salt, and pepper.

3️⃣ Combine & Chill

  • Pour the dressing over the cabbage mixture and toss until well combined.

  • Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour before serving to allow the flavors to meld.

Serving Suggestions

  • Serve the BBQ ribs hot, alongside the chilled coleslaw for a perfect balance of smoky, tangy, and crunchy flavors.

  • Pair with cornbread, baked beans, or grilled corn for a complete meal.

  • For extra heat, add a dash of hot sauce to the BBQ glaze.

Storage & Reheating

  • Refrigerate: Store leftover ribs in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

  • Reheat: Warm ribs in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for 15–20 minutes, brushing with additional BBQ sauce.

  • Coleslaw: Best enjoyed fresh but can be stored for up to 2 days in the fridge.

Final Thoughts

These Smoky BBQ Ribs are fall-off-the-bone tender and packed with flavor, while the Crunchy Coleslaw adds the perfect refreshing contrast. Whether for a backyard BBQ or a comforting dinner, this recipe is sure to impress!

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