BBQ ribs are the kind of dish that speaks to your senses—sweet, smoky, sticky, and irresistibly tender. Whether it’s a summer gathering or just a cozy weekend treat, these oven-baked ribs deliver the flavor without needing an outdoor grill.

For Lykkers who crave that satisfying balance of spice and sweetness with melt-in-your-mouth texture, this guide offers a relaxed approach to barbecue-style ribs right from your kitchen.

Part 1: How to Make BBQ Ribs

You don’t need a smoker to get juicy, flavorful ribs. With the right seasoning and a bit of oven magic, you’ll get the same fall-apart texture and bold BBQ flavor—no fuss, just flavor.

The Ingredients You’ll Need

(Serves 3–4)

For the Ribs:

Chicken ribs or alternative protein ribs – 1.2 kg

Olive oil – 1 tbsp

For the Dry Rub:

Brown sugar – 2 tbsp

Paprika – 1 tbsp

Garlic powder – 1 tsp

Onion powder – 1 tsp

Ground cumin – 1/2 tsp

Chili powder – 1/2 tsp (adjust to taste)

Salt – 1 tsp

Black pepper – 1/2 tsp

For the BBQ Sauce:

Tomato paste – 2 tbsp

Honey – 2 tbsp

Soy sauce – 1 tbsp

Apple cider vinegar – 1 tbsp

Mustard – 1 tsp

Smoked paprika – 1/2 tsp

Water – 2 tbsp (adjust for thickness)

Step-by-Step Process

Step 1: Prep the Ribs

Preheat your oven to 160°C (320°F). Pat the ribs dry and place them on a foil-lined baking tray. You’ll brush them with a bit of olive oil to help the rub stick.

Step 2: Mix and Apply the Dry Rub

In a bowl, mix together the brown sugar, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cumin, chili powder, salt, and black pepper. Rub this seasoning mix all over the ribs—get into the corners and coat every surface. You can do this the night before and refrigerate for extra flavor, or let it sit for 30 minutes at room temperature.

Step 3: Bake the Ribs Low and Slow

Cover the tray tightly with foil and bake for 2 hours. This slow roasting time allows the ribs to get tender and juicy without drying out.

Step 4: Make the BBQ Sauce

While the ribs bake, stir together all the BBQ sauce ingredients in a saucepan over medium heat. Let it bubble gently for 5–8 minutes until slightly thickened. Taste and adjust—you can add more honey for sweetness, more vinegar for tang, or more mustard for bite.

Step 5: Glaze and Roast Again

After 2 hours, remove the foil and carefully pour off any excess liquid. Brush the ribs generously with your homemade BBQ sauce. Increase the oven temperature to 200°C (400°F) and return the ribs to bake uncovered for another 20 minutes. This step helps the sauce caramelize into a sticky, glossy coating.

Step 6: Rest and Serve

Let the ribs rest for 5–10 minutes before slicing or serving. The rest time lets the juices settle so the meat stays moist and flavorful. Serve with extra sauce on the side and whatever fresh sides you like—think coleslaw, roasted corn, or a green salad.

Part 2: Get Creative with Your BBQ

Why This Method Works

Slow roasting in the oven allows the ribs to become tender without needing a grill. Finishing at a higher heat caramelizes the sauce, giving you that classic BBQ finish without stepping outside.

Switch It Up

Not into spice? Skip the chili and add a touch of cinnamon or ginger for warmth. Want it smokier? Use liquid smoke or smoked salt. You can also use plant-based rib alternatives—just shorten the cook time depending on the product instructions.

Time-Saving Tips

Double the dry rub and store the extra in a jar—it works great on roasted veggies too. You can also prep the sauce a day ahead and refrigerate it until you’re ready to cook.

How to Store Leftovers

Leftover ribs keep well in the fridge for 2–3 days. Reheat them in the oven at 180°C (350°F) covered in foil for about 15 minutes, or in a skillet with a splash of water and a lid until warmed through.

What to Serve on the Side

Ribs love balance, so pair them with cool, crunchy slaw or refreshing cucumber salad. Add steamed rice or cornbread on the side for a filling finish.

BBQ ribs are the kind of dish that turns a meal into a memory—messy, delicious, and completely satisfying. With this oven-friendly version, you get all the flavor and tenderness without needing a grill or smoker. So Lykkers, roll up your sleeves, glaze that sauce, and savor every bite. Ready to explore a spicy or tropical twist next? Let’s keep the BBQ adventure going.