Baby Back Ribs

Ingredients

• 2 racks baby back ribs, about 4 lb total
• 2 tsp kosher salt
• 2 tsp smoked paprika
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp onion powder
• 1 tsp black pepper
• 1/2 tsp ground cumin
• 1 tbsp brown sugar
• 1 cup barbecue sauce
• 2 tbsp apple cider juice or water

Instructions

Follow each step in order. The directions below are written so a beginner can understand what to do, what to look for, and when to move on to the next step.

1. Step 1.Heat the oven to 300°F and line a large rimmed baking sheet with foil, then place a wire rack on top if you have one.
2. Step 2.Remove the membrane from the back of the rib racks and pat the meat completely dry so the seasoning adheres evenly.
3. Step 3.Mix the salt, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, pepper, cumin, and brown sugar, then rub the blend over both sides of the ribs.
4. Step 4.Place the ribs meat-side up, add a small splash of apple juice or water beneath them, and cover the entire pan tightly with foil.
5. Step 5.Bake for about 2 hours and 15 minutes, then carefully open one corner of the foil and check that the meat has pulled back slightly from the bone ends.
6. Step 6.Continue covered baking for another 15 to 25 minutes if the racks still feel firm when lifted with tongs.
7. Step 7.Remove the foil, brush the ribs generously but not excessively with barbecue sauce, and increase the oven to 425°F.
8. Step 8.Return the uncovered ribs to the oven for 8 to 10 minutes until the sauce bubbles and begins to caramelize without burning.
9. Step 9.Brush with one final thin layer of sauce and broil briefly, watching continuously, if you want darker charred edges.
10. Step 10.Rest for 10 minutes before slicing between the bones, then serve hot with extra barbecue sauce and classic cookout sides.