Cooking baby back ribs in the oven can result in tender and flavorful ribs. Here's a simple method you can follow:
Preheat the oven: Start by preheating your oven to 275°F (135°C). This lower temperature allows the ribs to cook slowly and become tender.
Prepare the ribs: Remove the membrane from the back of the ribs by inserting a knife under the membrane, lifting it slightly, and then grabbing it with a paper towel to peel it off. This step helps tenderize the ribs and allows flavors to penetrate.
Season the ribs: Season the ribs generously with your preferred dry rub or a combination of spices. A classic dry rub includes ingredients like brown sugar, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, pepper, and any other spices you enjoy.
Wrap in foil: Wrap the seasoned ribs tightly in aluminum foil, creating a sealed pouch. This helps lock in moisture and aids in the cooking process.
Bake in the oven: Place the foil-wrapped ribs on a baking sheet and transfer them to the preheated oven. Bake for approximately 2.5 to 3 hours, or until the meat is tender and easily pulls away from the bone. The long, slow cooking time helps break down the collagen in the ribs, resulting in a tender texture.
Optional: Basting or glazing: If desired, you can baste the ribs with your favorite barbecue sauce or glaze during the last 20-30 minutes of cooking. This adds a flavorful coating and creates a sticky, caramelized finish.
Rest and serve: Once the ribs are cooked to your desired tenderness, remove them from the oven and let them rest, still wrapped in foil, for about 10 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute within the meat. After resting, carefully open the foil and transfer the ribs to a cutting board. Cut the ribs into individual servings and serve them with additional barbecue sauce, if desired.
Remember, cooking times may vary depending on the size and thickness of the ribs, so it's important to monitor their tenderness as they cook. Enjoy your delicious oven-baked baby back ribs!