Oven-baked pork ribs

Oven-Baked Pork Ribs: A Delight That Will Delight Your Taste Buds

Who doesn't love the enticing aroma of slowly cooked pork ribs, falling off the bone and covered in a savory sauce? This classic oven-baked pork ribs recipe is perfect for a family dinner or a special occasion. Although it requires a longer preparation time, your patience will be rewarded with a delicious meal, full of rich flavors and perfect textures.

Total Preparation Time: 4 hours
Cooking Time: 3-3.5 hours
Servings: 4-6

The history of pork ribs is fascinating. They have been part of people's meals since ancient times, cooked in various ways, from smoking to grilling over coals. Today, ribs are appreciated worldwide, and each region has its own recipes and cooking styles. Regardless of traditions, one thing is certain: oven-baked pork ribs are a true feast.

Ingredients:

- 1.2 kg pork ribs
- 1-2 glasses of red wine (choose a quality wine, as it will influence the final taste)
- 1 glass of tomato juice
- 3-4 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
- 2-3 tablespoons mustard
- 2 onions, chopped
- 2-3 cloves garlic, crushed
- 50 g brown sugar (about 2 tablespoons)
- Juice of half a lemon
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 kg potatoes (optional, for garnish)

Step by Step for Oven-Baked Pork Ribs:

1. Preparing the Marinade:
In a large bowl, mix the red wine, tomato juice, Worcestershire sauce, mustard, chopped onion, crushed garlic, brown sugar, lemon juice, salt, pepper, paprika, and thyme. This will be your flavorful sauce that will transform the ribs into a true delight.

2. Preparing the Ribs:
Rub the pork ribs with the mixture obtained, ensuring that each piece is well coated. This marinade will give them an intense flavor and irresistible aroma.

3. Placing the Ribs in the Baking Dish:
Place the ribs in a baking dish and pour the remaining sauce over them. Cover the dish with aluminum foil to retain moisture and allow the ribs to cook slowly and evenly.

4. Baking in the Oven:
Preheat the oven to 170 degrees Celsius. Place the dish in the preheated oven and let the ribs cook for 3 to 3.5 hours. It is essential to check them every half hour, basting them with the sauce from the dish. If you notice the sauce is reducing too much, add a little wine or water to prevent drying out.

5. Removing the Foil:
After about 1.5 hours, remove the aluminum foil to allow the ribs to brown and develop a delicious crust.

6. Preparing the Side Dish:
While the ribs are cooking, you can prepare the potato side dish. Boil 1 kg of whole or large-cut potatoes in salted water until they are half-cooked. About 30 minutes before the ribs are done, add the drained potatoes to the dish to absorb the delicious sauce.

Chef's Tip:
An essential trick to achieving perfect pork ribs is to let them marinate for a few hours or even overnight in the refrigerator. This will allow the flavors to penetrate deeply into the meat, giving you an exceptional result. You can also try various spices or sauces to customize the recipe, such as adding honey for a sweet touch or chili for a bit of spice.

Delicious Combinations:
Pork ribs go wonderfully with a fresh salad or a serving of sauerkraut, which will add a touch of acidity and balance the richness of the dish. Additionally, a pale beer or a fruity red wine will pair perfectly with this dish, enhancing the intense flavors.

Calories and Nutritional Benefits:
A serving of oven-baked pork ribs contains approximately 400-500 calories, depending on the amount of sauce and side dish. Although they are rich in protein, it is important to consume them in moderation, considering their fat content. Additionally, the garlic and onion in the recipe provide antioxidant benefits and are known for their anti-inflammatory properties.

Frequently Asked Questions:
1. Can I use other types of meat?
Yes, you can adapt the recipe using beef or chicken, but the cooking time will vary depending on the type of meat chosen.

2. What other side dishes pair well?
Besides potatoes, you can serve the ribs with rice, mashed potatoes, or grilled vegetables.

3. How can I store leftovers?
Pork ribs can be stored in the refrigerator for 3-4 days in an airtight container. You can reheat them in the oven or microwave to enjoy them again.

Now that you have all the necessary information, all that's left is to get cooking! Oven-baked pork ribs are an excellent choice for a memorable meal, and with a little patience, you'll enjoy a truly delicious dish that will impress any guest. So, get ready to savor a feast of flavors and textures! Enjoy your meal!