- Preheat the Oven or Grill:
- Preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C) or prepare your grill for indirect heat cooking.
- Prepare the Ribs:
- Remove the thin membrane from the back of the ribs if it’s still attached. Season both sides of the ribs generously with salt and pepper.
- Make the Dr Pepper Sauce:
- In a saucepan over medium heat, combine the Dr Pepper soda, ketchup, brown sugar, Worcestershire sauce, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper (if using). Stir well and bring to a simmer. Cook for about 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens slightly.
- Marinate the Ribs:
- Place the seasoned ribs in a large roasting pan or baking dish. Pour half of the Dr Pepper sauce over the ribs, making sure to coat both sides evenly. Reserve the remaining sauce for basting.
- Cook the Ribs:
- Cover the roasting pan tightly with aluminum foil. If using an oven, place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 2.5 to 3 hours, or until the ribs are tender and cooked through.
- If using a grill, place the ribs on the grill over indirect heat. Close the lid and grill for 2.5 to 3 hours, maintaining a temperature around 300°F (150°C), until the ribs are tender and cooked through. Baste the ribs occasionally with the reserved Dr Pepper sauce during the last hour of cooking.
- Finish and Serve:
- Remove the ribs from the oven or grill and uncover them. Brush with additional Dr Pepper sauce if desired.
- Let the ribs rest for a few minutes before slicing them between the bones.
- Garnish with chopped parsley or cilantro if desired.
- Serve hot, accompanied by your favorite sides like coleslaw, cornbread, or grilled vegetables.
Tips for Perfect Dr Pepper Ribs:
- Slow Cooking: Low and slow cooking ensures that the ribs become tender and flavorful. This allows the marinade to penetrate and infuse the meat with delicious flavors.
- Basting: Basting the ribs with the Dr Pepper sauce throughout cooking adds layers of flavor and helps keep the ribs moist.
- Grill Tips: If grilling, use indirect heat to prevent burning and ensure even cooking. Monitor the temperature closely to maintain consistent heat.
Variations to Try:
- Spicy Kick: Increase the amount of cayenne pepper or add hot sauce to the marinade for a spicier version.
- Smoky Flavor: Add a few drops of liquid smoke to the marinade for a smokier taste, especially if cooking in the oven.
Conclusion:
Dr Pepper Ribs are a delicious twist on classic barbecue ribs, offering a sweet and tangy flavor that pairs perfectly with the tender meat. Follow this recipe to create mouthwatering ribs that will impress your family and guests alike. Enjoy the savory, aromatic goodness of these Dr Pepper-infused ribs straight from your kitchen!