Ingredients

BBQ Rub for Ribs

• 2.5 tsp paprika
• 2 tsp garlic powder
• 1.5 tsp onion powder
• 1 tsp cayenne pepper
• 1.5 tsp dried thyme
• 1.5 tsp dried oregano
• 1.5 tsp salt
• 0.5 tsp black pepper

Ribs

• 2–2.5kg pork ribs (2 racks)
• 3/4 cup sweet alcoholic apple cider (hard cider)
• 1 tbsp olive oil

Homemade BBQ Sauce

• 1/2 cup apple cider vinegar
• 1 1/2 cups tomato sauce
• 1/2 cup water (or use the remaining apple cider)
• 1 1/2 tbsp molasses
• 1/3 cup brown sugar
• 2 tsp mustard powder
• 1 1/2 tsp garlic powder
• 2 tsp Worcestershire sauce
• 1 tsp salt
• 1 tsp black pepper
• 1 tsp Tabasco or cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)

Method

1. Combine the rub ingredients and coat both sides of the ribs, using most of it on the meaty side. Let them sit for 20 minutes, or leave them overnight in the fridge for deeper flavour.
2. Preheat your oven to 160°C (320°F).
3. Place the ribs in a single layer on a tray. Pour the apple cider underneath the ribs, cover tightly with foil, and bake for 1 hour 30 minutes, or until the meat is almost tender.
4. Increase the oven temperature to 180°C (350°F).
5. Remove the foil, drizzle ribs with olive oil, and return to the oven for 15 minutes so the rub can set and crust slightly.
6. Line a new tray with foil and baking paper. Transfer the ribs to the new tray and pour over any juices.
7. Flip the ribs so the bonier side is facing up. Brush with BBQ sauce and bake for 10 minutes.
8. Turn them over so the meaty side is up, brush again, and bake for 5 minutes.
9. Repeat this glazing and baking step 2 or 3 more times until the ribs are glossy and well-coated.
10. Slice into individual ribs or sections and serve with extra BBQ sauce on the side.

BBQ Sauce

1. Place all sauce ingredients into a saucepan and simmer over medium heat for about 45 minutes, stirring occasionally, until thickened.
2. Taste and adjust: add brown sugar or honey for sweetness, more vinegar for tang, and extra salt if needed.