How to bake perfect ribs: Tips for tender, juicy results
Properly prepared ribs taste exquisite. It's best to simply bake them in the oven, but the temperature is crucial to ensure they are not tough and remain juicy without drying out.
Many people are hesitant to prepare ribs because they can often turn out tough. This is usually because ribs require both sufficient time and the right temperature to become tender and delicate. Remember, before placing them in the oven, they should be marinated. The ribs should rest for at least 30 minutes in the marinade, and it's even better to leave them overnight. In that case, make sure to refrigerate them.
The best temperature for baking ribs
We want soft meat that falls off the bone after baking. Achieving this means being patient and planning carefully. Baking ribs is a lengthy process as they need ample time to become tender. Many culinary experts suggest doing this at a low, stable temperature, around 300-320°F. This slow softening method works best for ribs, with a baking time of about 3 hours. Towards the end, set a higher temperature, around 390°F, to achieve nicely browned and crispy ribs.
A faster way to cook ribs
Don't have time for such long baking? You can also bake the ribs at a higher temperature of about 355-390°F. In this case, it's worth searing them in a pan first to seal in the juices. While baking at a high temperature, the ribs are more prone to drying out, so it's good to baste them with either the marinade or broth. The general rule here is an hour of baking per 2 pounds of meat.
