Beef Back Ribs Recipe Smoky Dry Rub With Cherry Glaze

I’ve found this beef back ribs recipe Smoky Dry Rub With Cherry Glaze to be the ultimate solution for a satisfying, fuss-free family dinner. Imagine the rich aroma of smoky, sweet meat filling your kitchen as these ribs cook slowly to fall-off-the-bone perfection. This beef back ribs recipe transforms everyday beef back ribs into a truly special meal, perfect for a busy weeknight or a relaxed Sunday gathering when you want incredible flavor without complicated steps.

Ingredients With Functional Roles

Crafting the perfect beef back ribs recipe Smoky Dry Rub With Cherry Glaze starts with quality ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need, with options for dietary adjustments and sourcing for your next easy healthy meal idea.

• Beef Back Ribs (2-3 racks, about 3-4 lbs / 1.3-1.8 kg, meaty): The main protein, offering a rich, hearty base for this family-friendly meal. Look for grass-fed options for enhanced flavor and nutrition.
• Smoked Paprika (2 Tbsp / 30 mL): Provides deep smoky flavor and a beautiful reddish color to the dry rub. (Hungarian sweet paprika also works if you prefer less smoke).
• Brown Sugar (1/4 cup / 60 mL, packed): Adds sweetness and aids in caramelization for a delectable crust on the ribs. (For lower sugar, use half the amount or a sugar-free substitute).
• Garlic Powder (1 Tbsp / 15 mL): Contributes a pungent aroma and savory depth to the dry rub.
• Onion Powder (1 Tbsp / 15 mL): Offers aromatic, umami notes, rounding out the savory profile.
• Cayenne Pepper (1 tsp / 5 mL, optional): Introduces a subtle hint of heat and complexity. (Omit for a milder rub, perfect for sensitive palates).
• Salt & Black Pepper (to taste): Essential seasonings that enhance all other flavors. I typically use 1.5 tsp salt and 1 tsp black pepper per rack for these beef back ribs.
• Cherry Preserves or Jam (1 cup / 240 mL): Forms the sweet-tart, fruity base of the irresistible glaze for this delightful beef back ribs recipe. (Strawberry or apricot jam can be used for a different fruit profile).
• Apple Cider Vinegar (2 Tbsp / 30 mL): Balances the sweetness of the preserves and adds a bright tang to the glaze.
• Worcestershire Sauce (1 Tbsp / 15 mL): Delivers a crucial layer of umami depth to the cherry glaze. Ensure it’s gluten-free if preparing for a gluten-free diet.

Beef back ribs are readily available year-round at your local butcher or supermarket meat counter. Opting for organic spices can offer a purer taste experience for this easy healthy meal idea.

Preparation & Cooking Method

Achieving tender, flavorful beef back ribs recipe Smoky Dry Rub With Cherry Glaze is straightforward. My focus on precise timing makes all the difference for this high-protein dinner recipe.

1. Prep Ribs (10 min): Remove the thin membrane from the back of each rib rack; this prevents toughness. Pat ribs thoroughly dry with paper towels so the rub adheres well.
2. Make Rub (5 min): In a small bowl, combine smoked paprika, brown sugar, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper (if using), salt, and black pepper. Mix evenly.
3. Rub Ribs & Marinate (30 min – several hours): Generously coat both sides of the ribs with the dry rub. For deeper flavor, let sit 30 minutes at room temp, or refrigerate for hours.
4. Bake/Cook (3-4 hours): Preheat oven to 275°F (135°C). Place ribs on a foil-lined baking sheet, bone-side down. Tightly cover with heavy-duty foil. Bake for 3-4 hours until meat is very tender, visibly pulling from bones. If ribs look dry, a splash of apple juice or water inside the foil pouch keeps them moist.
5. Make Glaze (5-7 min): While ribs bake, combine cherry preserves, apple cider vinegar, and Worcestershire sauce in a small saucepan. Simmer gently 5-7 minutes, stirring, until slightly thickened and wonderfully fruity. This amazing cherry glaze makes this beef back ribs recipe Smoky Dry Rub With Cherry Glaze truly shine.
6. Finish & Glaze (15-20 min): Uncover ribs. Increase oven to 375°F (190°C). Brush generously with cherry glaze. Bake uncovered 15-20 minutes, brushing every 5-7 minutes, until glaze is caramelized, sticky, and ribs are glistening brown.

For speed, an Instant Pot cooks beef back ribs in 35-40 minutes high pressure with natural release. Finishing on the grill adds smoky char. Remember, don’t overcook the glaze; it should remain sticky yet brushable for the best finish on this easy dinner idea. This delicious beef back ribs recipe Smoky Dry Rub With Cherry Glaze is a fantastic family-friendly option for any day.

Serving Ideas & Best Uses of Beef Back Ribs with Smoky Dry Rub and Cherry Glaze

This beef back ribs recipe Smoky Dry Rub With Cherry Glaze is ideal for a comforting weeknight dinner, impressive enough for a casual family gathering, or a delicious treat for game day. Its savory-sweet profile appeals to everyone.

• Serve whole racks with classic sides like mashed potatoes and coleslaw.
• Slice into individual ribs for easier handling, perfect for parties.
• Shred leftover meat for sandwiches or flavorful tacos, great for easy dinner ideas.

Store cooked beef back ribs in an airtight container for 3 to 4 days in the fridge. To reheat, gently warm them in a covered dish in the oven at 300°F (150°C) until heated through, or use a microwave for quicker reheating. This supports convenient meal prep.

Health & Lifestyle Benefits

This high-protein dinner recipe supports muscle building and lasting satiety for active families. The Smoky Dry Rub With Cherry Glaze can be customized for lower sugar needs. It’s a hearty, satisfying meal that helps keep hunger at bay and is very kid-friendly.

This beef back ribs recipe provides an easy healthy meal idea that satisfies without being complicated. It’s a fantastic quick dinner option for busy schedules. Enjoy a high-protein dinner recipe for families, naturally gluten-free when using GF Worcestershire.

Achieve balance with nourishing home-cooked meals, saving on dining out. This delicious recipe fuels active lifestyles, promoting healthy eating with flavor and convenience.

Time & Money Value

Task	Time
Prep	15-20 min
Cook (Oven)	3-4 hours
Cook (Instant Pot)	35-40 min
Finish (Oven)	15-20 min

This beef back ribs recipe typically costs less than dining out, around $4-$6 per serving. Look for sales on beef back ribs to maximize savings.

This recipe is great for making a double batch; freeze individual portions for future easy healthy meals. This provides high-protein snacks or quick dinners.

Ingredient Sourcing & Shopping Options

You can find quality beef back ribs at your local butcher, the supermarket meat counter, or specialty grocery stores. Cherry preserves are readily available in the jam and jelly aisle.

Consider organic or grass-fed beef back ribs for richer flavor and higher nutritional value. Organic spices offer a purer, more intense taste in your smoky dry rub.

Use grocery delivery services for added convenience when sourcing your ingredients. Look for bulk savings on ribs, especially around holiday sales. Check local farmers markets for unique, high-quality cherry preserves for your glaze.

Chef Tips & Dietary Adjustments

• For extra flavor, consider smoking the ribs an hour or two before oven baking.
• Add a touch of liquid smoke to your dry rub for a deeper smoky aroma if oven-baking.
• Experiment with different fruit preserves like apricot or raspberry for unique glaze variations.

• For kids or milder tastes, reduce or omit cayenne pepper in the dry rub.
• For spice lovers, add red pepper flakes to the cherry glaze.
• For less sweet, use less cherry preserve or more apple cider vinegar.

This beef back ribs recipe is naturally nut-free, dairy-free, and egg-free. I always find it helpful to double-check ingredient labels, especially for Worcestershire sauce, to ensure it’s gluten-free if needed.

FAQs

Are beef back ribs good for meal prep or weight loss?

Absolutely! This beef back ribs recipe is high in protein, which is excellent for meal prep and supporting weight loss goals by promoting satiety. Portion out individual servings for easy healthy meals throughout the week.

What’s the best substitute for beef back ribs?

While beef back ribs have a unique meat-to-bone ratio, short ribs or even pork spare ribs can be used with similar cooking methods. However, cooking times will vary considerably, so adjust accordingly.

Can I order beef back ribs from online grocery delivery?

Yes, many online grocery delivery services offer beef back ribs, providing a convenient way to source your ingredients. You can often specify fresh or frozen options and choose your preferred cut or brand for your beef back ribs recipe.

How long can beef back ribs last once cooked?

Cooked beef back ribs can be safely stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3 to 4 days. For longer storage, freeze individual portions for up to 3 months, then reheat gently from frozen.

Can I make the Smoky Dry Rub with Cherry Glaze ahead of time?

Yes, the dry rub can be mixed and stored in an airtight container for several weeks, ready to use. The cherry glaze can also be made 2 to 3 days ahead and refrigerated, gently reheating it before brushing onto the ribs.

Do I have to remove the membrane from beef back ribs?

It’s highly recommended to remove the membrane from beef back ribs. I find that skipping this step makes the ribs tougher and prevents the smoky dry rub and cherry glaze from fully penetrating the meat for optimal flavor and tenderness.

This beef back ribs recipe with Smoky Dry Rub and Cherry Glaze proves that delicious, hearty family meals don’t have to be complicated or expensive. I love knowing I can create such an impressive dish with minimal fuss for my family. Pin this recipe, add beef back ribs to your next shopping list, and plan for a truly memorable easy healthy meal next week!

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