Savoring National Baby Back Ribs Day

A Juicy Tribute to Flavor and Fun...

Hey there, Good Thyme Gal readers! Get ready to fire up your grills and preheat your ovens because National Baby Back Ribs Day is here! It’s a day dedicated to one of the most mouthwatering, finger-licking, succulent treats out there: baby back ribs. Whether you’re a seasoned grill master or a home cook eager to experiment, today’s the perfect opportunity to celebrate these delicious cuts of meat and elevate your cooking game.

The Appeal of Baby Back Ribs

Baby back ribs are a beloved staple in barbecue culture and beyond. Known for their tender, flavorful meat and slightly sweet, smoky finish, these ribs offer a culinary experience that’s hard to resist. Unlike spare ribs, which come from the belly side of the pig, baby back ribs are taken from the upper ribcage and are typically shorter, more tender, and have a bit more meat between the bones.

What makes baby back ribs so special is their versatility. They can be seasoned with a variety of rubs, slathered in barbecue sauce, and cooked in numerous ways—grilled, baked, or smoked. Each method brings out different flavors and textures, allowing for endless creativity in the kitchen.

Why Celebrate National Baby Back Ribs Day?

National Baby Back Ribs Day isn’t just about enjoying a great meal; it’s a chance to bring friends and family together over a delicious feast. Ribs have a way of turning an ordinary day into a memorable occasion. They’re perfect for backyard cookouts, casual gatherings, or even a cozy family dinner. Celebrating this day means embracing the joy of cooking, experimenting with flavors, and savoring the simple pleasure of a well-cooked rack of ribs.

National Baby Back Ribs Day is a fantastic opportunity to indulge in one of the most delicious and enjoyable dishes out there. Whether you’re grilling, baking, or smoking, the key to great ribs is a perfect blend of flavors and a bit of patience. So grab your apron, fire up your grill or oven, and enjoy celebrating this day with a juicy, flavorful rack of baby back ribs.

A Flavor-Packed Baby Back Ribs Recipe

To help you celebrate National Baby Back Ribs Day in style, we’re sharing a recipe that combines classic barbecue flavors with a touch of innovation. These **Spicy Honey Garlic Baby Back Ribs** are sure to impress with their perfect balance of heat, sweetness, and savory goodness. So let’s get cooking!

Ingredients

For the Ribs:

• 2 racks of baby back ribs

• 1 tablespoon olive oil

• Good Thyme Gal Rib Rubb

For the Honey Garlic Glaze:

• 1/2 cup honey

• 1/4 cup soy sauce

• 3 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 tablespoon rice vinegar

• 1 tablespoon grated ginger

• 1 teaspoon sesame oil

• 1 teaspoon cornstarch (optional, for thickening)

Instructions:

1. Preheat the Oven or Grill:If using the oven, preheat to 300°F (150°C). If grilling, set up a two-zone fire: one side with direct heat and the other with indirect heat.

2. Remove the membrane from the back of the ribs if it hasn’t already been done. This helps make the ribs more tender. Rub the ribs with olive oil.

3. In a small bowl, mix the smoked paprika, brown sugar, garlic powder, onion powder, ground cumin, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper. Rub this spice mix all over the ribs, making sure to coat both sides evenly.

4. Cook the Ribs:

Oven Method: Place the ribs on a rack over a baking sheet (to catch any drippings). Cover loosely with aluminum foil and bake for 2.5 to 3 hours, until the ribs are tender.

Grill Method:Place the ribs over the indirect heat side of the grill. Cover and cook for 2 to 2.5 hours, turning occasionally, until tender.

5.While the ribs are cooking, combine honey, soy sauce, minced garlic, rice vinegar, grated ginger, and sesame oil in a small saucepan. Bring to a simmer over medium heat and cook for about 5 minutes, until slightly thickened. If you prefer a thicker glaze, mix 1 teaspoon of cornstarch with 1 tablespoon of water and stir into the sauce.

6. When the ribs are nearly done, brush the honey garlic glaze generously over them. If using the oven, remove the foil and return the ribs to the oven for an additional 20-30 minutes, brushing with more glaze every 10 minutes. If grilling, move the ribs to the direct heat side and grill for an additional 10-15 minutes, basting with glaze and turning occasionally.

7. Let the ribs rest for a few minutes before slicing between the bones. Serve with extra honey garlic glaze on the side for dipping.

Happy National Baby Back Ribs Day, and happy cooking!