Sticky BBQ Short Ribs: A Finger-Licking Delight That Will Steal the Show!

If you’re on the hunt for a dish that will make your taste buds sing and your heart dance, look no further than these Sticky BBQ Short Ribs! Picture tender, succulent beef short ribs drenched in a rich, tangy, and slightly sweet barbecue sauce that’s downright irresistible. With every bite, you’ll experience a symphony of flavors that’s smoky, savory, and just a hint of sweetness. It’s a dish that feels like a warm hug and makes every gathering a celebration. So, roll up your sleeves and let’s dive into the world of sticky BBQ goodness!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Ready to become the star of your next cookout? Here’s why you’ll absolutely adore these Sticky BBQ Short Ribs:

– Big, Bold Flavors: The perfect balance of tangy and sweet creates a flavor explosion that’s hard to resist.
– Showstopper Recipe: These ribs are sure to impress your family and friends, turning any meal into a special occasion.
– Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you’ll feel like a culinary wizard in no time!
– Perfect for Meal Prep: Make them ahead of time for a hassle-free weeknight dinner or a crowd-pleasing party dish.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering your ingredients is half the fun, and the best part of these Sticky BBQ Short Ribs is how accessible they are! Get ready to savor mouthwatering flavors with these:

– 4 pounds beef short ribs
– 1 cup apple vinegar
– 1 cup coconut water
– 1 cup ketchup
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
– 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
– 1 tablespoon garlic powder
– 1 tablespoon onion powder
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
– 1 tablespoon Vanilla Extract (Alcohol-Free)

Note: You’ll find the complete list of ingredients, along with their exact measurements, in the printable recipe card at the bottom of this post.

Variations

The beauty of the Sticky BBQ Short Ribs recipe is its versatility! Here are some fabulous variations to make this dish your own:

– Go Gluten-Free: Swap out the soy sauce for a gluten-free alternative to enjoy the same amazing flavors.
– Add Extra Protein: Throw in some chicken wings or drumsticks to the baking dish for a hearty feast.
– Make it Spicier: Crank up the heat by adding more cayenne pepper or a dash of your favorite hot sauce.
– Swap the Dressing: Experiment with different barbecue sauces for a unique twist — try a mustard-based sauce for a tangy kick!
– Cheese it Up: For a decadent finish, sprinkle some crumbled blue cheese or shredded cheddar on top right before serving.

How to Make Sticky BBQ Short Ribs

Ready to get cooking? Follow these easy steps to create your own plate of Sticky BBQ Short Ribs:

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Set your oven to 300°F (150°C) and get it heating up while you prepare the magic.

Step 2: Whisk Together the Sauce

In a large bowl, combine the apple vinegar, coconut water, ketchup, brown sugar, soy sauce, Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, black pepper, salt, cayenne pepper (if using), and Vanilla Extract. Stir until everything is harmoniously blended into a glorious BBQ sauce.

Step 3: Coat the Ribs

Place those beautiful beef short ribs in a large baking dish or roasting pan. Pour half of the luscious BBQ sauce over the ribs, making sure they’re well coated and ready to soak up all that flavor.

Step 4: Bake the Ribs

Cover that dish tightly with aluminum foil and slide it into the preheated oven. Bake for 3 to 4 hours, or until the ribs are fall-off-the-bone tender. Your kitchen will smell amazing — get ready for some serious anticipation!

Step 5: Brush on the Goodness

Once the ribs are tender, carefully remove them from the oven and discard the foil. Brush the remaining BBQ sauce generously over the ribs to ensure every delicious inch is covered.

Step 6: Get Them Sticky

Increase your oven temperature to 400°F (200°C) and pop those ribs back in, uncovered. Bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the sauce is bubbly and sticky.

Step 7: Rest Before Serving

Remove the ribs from the oven and let them rest for a few minutes. If you like, give them an extra brush with leftover sauce for that glossy finish!

Step 8: Serve & Enjoy!

Serve those heavenly Sticky BBQ Short Ribs with your favorite sides, and enjoy the deliciousness you’ve created!

Pro Tips for Making Sticky BBQ Short Ribs

Here are some pro tips to help you achieve the best results with your Sticky BBQ Short Ribs:

– Choose Quality Meat: Look for well-marbled short ribs for maximum tenderness and flavor.
– Marinate Overnight: If you have time, let the short ribs marinate in the BBQ sauce overnight for an even deeper flavor.
– Use a Meat Thermometer: If you want to be sure they’re perfectly cooked, aim for a temperature of around 200°F (93°C) for super tender ribs.
– Don’t Rush the Cooking Time: Patience is key! The longer you cook them low and slow, the more tender and flavorful they will be.

How to Serve Sticky BBQ Short Ribs

Garnishes

Elevate your Sticky BBQ Short Ribs with garnishes like freshly chopped parsley, scallions, or a sprinkle of sesame seeds for a touch of color and flavor.

Side Dishes

Pair your ribs with classic sides like creamy coleslaw, buttery corn on the cob, or even a zesty potato salad for a complete meal that will have everyone raving!

Creative Ways to Present

Consider serving the ribs on a large wooden platter and letting guests help themselves, or place individual servings in cute cups for a fun twist at your next gathering.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover Sticky BBQ Short Ribs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. They’ll be just as delicious when you’re ready to dig in again!

Freezing

Yes, you can freeze these beauties! Seal them in a freezer-safe bag or container, and they’ll be good for up to 3 months. Just thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.

Reheating

To reheat, place the ribs in a baking dish and warm them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through. You can even brush on a bit of extra sauce for that fresh-off-the-grill taste!

FAQs

Can I use a different type of meat?
Absolutely! You can substitute beef short ribs with pork ribs, but keep in mind that cooking times may vary.

Is this recipe spicy?
The recipe includes optional cayenne pepper for a bit of heat, so feel free to adjust to your spice preference!

Can I prepare this in advance?
Yes! These ribs are perfect for meal prep. You can make them ahead of time and simply reheat before serving.

How do I make this gluten-free?
Swap the soy sauce for a gluten-free version, and you’ll have a delicious gluten-free dish that everyone can enjoy!

Final Thoughts

These Sticky BBQ Short Ribs are not just a meal; they’re a culinary journey that will transport you to flavor paradise! With their tender, fall-off-the-bone texture and sticky, rich sauce, you’ll find yourself coming back for more — and your taste buds will thank you! So gather your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and let the deliciousness begin. Happy cooking!