Prepare to fire up your taste buds for a flavor explosion with these Smoky BBQ Bacon Glazed Ribs with Tangy Sauce. Get ready to dive into a mouthwatering, fall-off-the-bone experience that will transport you straight to the heart of summer BBQ bliss. This delectable dish combines the irresistible smokiness of barbecue with the savory crunch of bacon, all complemented by a tangy, zesty sauce that will have you reaching for seconds.
Why You’ll Love This Smoky BBQ Bacon Glazed Ribs with Tangy Sauce
These Smoky BBQ Bacon Glazed Ribs are a true crowd-pleaser, perfect for backyard gatherings, summer cookouts, or cozy indoor feasts. The combination of tender, juicy ribs glazed with a smoky-sweet BBQ sauce and crispy bacon elevates this dish to new levels of flavor and texture. The tangy sauce, made with a blend of bold ingredients, provides a delightful contrast that will have your taste buds dancing. Whether you’re a seasoned grillmaster or a home cook looking to impress, this recipe is a surefire way to bring people together and create lasting memories around the table.
Ingredients
To craft these Smoky BBQ Bacon Glazed Ribs, you’ll need a few key ingredients: succulent pork ribs, a homemade smoky BBQ sauce, crispy bacon, and a tangy sauce that ties it all together. The BBQ sauce features a blend of smoky, sweet, and savory flavors, while the tangy sauce adds a bright and bold counterpoint. Don’t forget the essential seasonings that will bring out the best in every bite.
- 3-4 lbs – Pork baby back ribs
- 2 tbsp – Smoked paprika
- 1 tbsp – Garlic powder
- 1 tbsp – Brown sugar
- 1 lb – Bacon, cooked until crispy and crumbled
Ingredient Substitutions
- Pork ribs: Beef or lamb ribs (for a meatier option), or plant-based alternatives like jackfruit or seitan (for a vegetarian version)
- Pork-based ingredients: Use vegan-friendly substitutes to make this recipe plant-based
How to Make Smoky BBQ Bacon Glazed Ribs with Tangy Sauce
Begin by prepping your ribs. Remove the membrane from the back of the ribs, then season them generously with a blend of your favorite spices, such as smoked paprika, garlic powder, and brown sugar. Let the ribs sit at room temperature for 30 minutes to allow the seasoning to penetrate.
Step 1: Prep Work
Fire up your grill or smoker to a medium-high heat. If using a smoker, add your favorite wood chips or chunks to create that irresistible smoky aroma. Place the seasoned ribs on the grill or in the smoker and cook for about 2 hours, flipping occasionally, until they develop a beautiful caramelized crust.
Step 2: Main Cooking Process
In the meantime, prepare the smoky BBQ sauce by simmering together a blend of ketchup, molasses, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, and your choice of spices. Once the ribs are tender and cooked through, brush them generously with the homemade BBQ sauce, making sure to coat every nook and cranny.
Step 3: Final Steps/Assembly
For the ultimate flavor experience, top the glazed ribs with crispy, crumbled bacon. The salty, crunchy bacon will perfectly complement the sweet and smoky flavors of the BBQ sauce. Finally, serve the Smoky BBQ Bacon Glazed Ribs with the tangy dipping sauce on the side, allowing your guests to indulge in the perfect balance of flavors.
Recipe Variations & Tips
- Rib Variations: Try using different rib cuts, such as baby back ribs or short ribs, for a more tender or meatier experience.
- Sauce Twists: Adjust the spice profile of the BBQ sauce by adding a touch of heat with cayenne pepper or chipotle powder. For a sweet and sour twist, incorporate pineapple or mango into the tangy sauce.
- Time-Saving Tips: Marinate the ribs overnight in the seasoning blend, then simply grill or smoke them on the day of. The BBQ and tangy sauces can also be made a few days ahead, allowing the flavors to meld together beautifully.
- Cooking Techniques: Remember, the key to perfectly cooked ribs is low and slow cooking. Basting the ribs with the sauces during the final stages of cooking will create that irresistible caramelized glaze.
Serving & Storage
Serve with: coleslaw, baked beans, grilled corn on the cob, or a fresh, zesty garden salad.
Storage: Store the ribs and sauces separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheat: Reheat the ribs in the oven or on the grill, brushing them with the remaining BBQ sauce to revive their juicy, flavorful goodness.
Make-Ahead: The ribs and sauces can be prepared in advance, allowing you to enjoy these Smoky BBQ Bacon Glazed Ribs with minimal effort on the day of your gathering.
Nutrition Information
These Smoky BBQ Bacon Glazed Ribs with Tangy Sauce are a delightful indulgence, packed with savory, smoky, and tangy flavors. While they may not be the lightest of dishes, they can be enjoyed as part of a balanced diet when consumed in moderation. Each serving provides a satisfying dose of protein from the pork ribs, and the tangy sauce adds a bright contrast to the rich, meaty flavors.
- Serving Size: 4 oz
- Calories: 375 kcal
- Protein: 28 g
- Carbs: 18 g
- Fat: 22 g
- Sodium: 730 mg
Frequently Asked Questions
How can I ensure my ribs are tender and fall-off-the-bone?
The key to tender, juicy ribs is low and slow cooking. Whether you’re using a grill, smoker, or oven, aim for a cooking temperature between 275°F and 300°F and plan for a total cook time of 2-3 hours. Be sure to wrap the ribs in foil or butcher paper during the latter stages of cooking to lock in moisture and tenderness.
Can I make the BBQ and tangy sauces ahead of time?
Absolutely! Both the smoky BBQ sauce and the tangy dipping sauce can be made several days in advance. Store them in airtight containers in the refrigerator, and simply reheat the sauces when you’re ready to serve the ribs. This allows the flavors to meld and intensify, making for an even more delicious final dish.
Can I use a different type of rib?
Yes, you can definitely experiment with different rib cuts. Baby back ribs or short ribs will also work well with this recipe, though you may need to adjust the cooking time accordingly. The key is to look for ribs with a good amount of marbling, as this will ensure the meat remains juicy and tender during the long cooking process.
How can I make this recipe vegetarian or vegan?
To create a meatless version of this dish, you can use plant-based meat alternatives like jackfruit or seitan in place of the pork ribs. Adjust the cooking method and times as needed, and be sure to use vegan-friendly BBQ and tangy sauces. This will allow you to enjoy the same flavors and textures without the animal-based ingredients.
What sides pair well with these Smoky BBQ Bacon Glazed Ribs?
These ribs are the ultimate summer cookout centerpiece, so they pair beautifully with classic BBQ sides. Consider serving them with creamy coleslaw, baked beans, grilled corn on the cob, or a fresh, zesty garden salad. For a heartier meal, you can round it out with roasted potatoes or a classic macaroni and cheese.
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Smoky BBQ Bacon Glazed Ribs with Tangy Sauce
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 120 minutes
- Total Time: 135 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: 🔥 BBQ, Grilling & Smokehouse
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: American
Description
Indulge in these Smoky BBQ Bacon Glazed Ribs with a tangy sauce that packs a flavorful punch. Perfectly grilled to perfection, these ribs are ideal for any BBQ enthusiast.
Ingredients
2 racks of baby back ribs
1 cup BBQ sauce
1/2 cup bacon bits
1 tablespoon smoked paprika
1 tablespoon brown sugar
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
1. Preheat your grill to medium heat.
2. Remove the membrane from the back of the ribs and season with salt, pepper, smoked paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder.
3. In a small saucepan, mix BBQ sauce with brown sugar and bacon bits over low heat until warmed.
4. Place the ribs on the grill and cook for 2 hours, turning occasionally.
5. During the last 30 minutes, brush the bacon BBQ glaze generously onto the ribs.
6. Once cooked, remove the ribs from the grill and let them rest for 10 minutes.
7. Slice and serve with extra glaze and parsley garnish.
Notes
For an even smokier flavor, consider adding wood chips to your grill during cooking. These ribs can be made ahead of time and reheated on the grill before serving.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 rack
- Calories: 600 kcal
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 900mg
- Fat: 40g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Unsaturated Fat: 20g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 40g
- Cholesterol: 100mg
Keywords: ribs, BBQ, bacon, grilling, smoked