How to Cook Country Style Ribs in the Oven Fast: A Speedy & Delicious Recipe
Craving fall-off-the-bone tender country style ribs but short on time? This recipe delivers juicy, flavorful ribs without hours of oven time. We'll explore techniques to achieve perfectly cooked ribs in a fraction of the usual cooking time.
Why Country Style Ribs Cook Faster
Before we dive into the recipe, let's understand why country style ribs cook faster than traditional spare ribs or baby back ribs. Country style ribs are actually cut from the pork shoulder, a more tender and less fatty cut. This makes them significantly quicker to cook.
Ingredients for Fast Oven-Baked Country Style Ribs
- 2 lbs country style pork ribs: Look for ribs that are evenly sized for consistent cooking.
- 1 cup barbecue sauce: Your favorite brand will do! Experiment with different flavors.
- 1/4 cup brown sugar: Adds sweetness and a beautiful glaze.
- 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce: Adds depth of flavor and umami.
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard: Provides a tangy kick.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder: Enhances the savory notes.
- 1 teaspoon onion powder: Adds another layer of flavor.
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika: For a smoky depth (optional, but recommended).
- Salt and pepper to taste: Essential for seasoning.
Preparing Your Ribs for Speedy Cooking
Faster cooking starts with proper preparation:
- Pat the ribs dry: Use paper towels to remove excess moisture. This helps achieve a crispy exterior.
- Season generously: Rub the ribs with salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and smoked paprika. Ensure all surfaces are well-coated.
The Fast Cooking Method: Oven-Baked to Perfection
This method uses a combination of high heat and foil to achieve tender ribs in a short time.
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Combine the sauce ingredients: In a bowl, whisk together the barbecue sauce, brown sugar, Worcestershire sauce, and Dijon mustard.
- Coat the ribs: Generously coat the seasoned ribs with the sauce mixture.
- Wrap in foil: Place the ribs in a large piece of heavy-duty aluminum foil. Seal tightly to create a packet. This helps steam the ribs, making them incredibly tender.
- Bake for 45-60 minutes: The cooking time depends on the thickness of your ribs and your oven. Thicker ribs may need closer to 60 minutes.
- Broil (optional): For a crispier exterior, carefully remove the foil packet (be cautious of steam!). Broil the ribs for 2-3 minutes, watching closely to avoid burning.
Tips for Extra Juicy and Flavorful Ribs
- Don't overcrowd the pan: Ensure there's enough space between the ribs for even cooking.
- Use a meat thermometer: Check the internal temperature of the ribs. They are done when they reach an internal temperature of 190°F (88°C).
- Rest the ribs: Allow the ribs to rest for 5-10 minutes after cooking before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in more tender meat.
Serving Suggestions
Serve your fast-cooked country style ribs with your favorite sides. Consider:
- Coleslaw: A classic pairing for ribs.
- Mac and cheese: A creamy and comforting side.
- Cornbread: Adds a touch of sweetness.
- Baked beans: A hearty and flavorful option.
This recipe delivers delicious, tender country style ribs in a fraction of the time. Enjoy! Remember to adjust cooking times based on your oven and the thickness of your ribs. Happy cooking!
