Sweet and Spicy Smoked Spare Ribs
Ribs with a perfect balance of heat and sweetness.
Jump to RecipeGetting the perfect balance of sweet and spicy is a BBQ art form, and these spare ribs nail it. The heat builds gradually without overwhelming the sweetness, creating ribs that keep you reaching for more even as your lips tingle. This is the recipe that made my reputation at neighborhood cookouts.
These ribs are perfect for summer BBQs, Fourth of July celebrations, or any cookout where you want to offer something with a little more excitement than standard ribs. They're great for spice lovers but approachable enough that everyone can enjoy them - the sweetness really balances the heat.
Cool down the heat with creamy coleslaw, chilled cucumber salad, and sweet corn on the cob. Mac and cheese provides a rich, cooling contrast, while buttery cornbread helps soak up the flavors. Have plenty of cold drinks on hand - these ribs will make your guests thirsty in the best way.
Adjust the heat level by varying the cayenne and hot sauce in your rub and glaze. For more sweetness, increase the brown sugar or add a honey drizzle at the end. Try different hot sauces for varying heat profiles - Sriracha gives an Asian twist, while habanero sauce brings tropical heat.
The key is layering the flavors - the rub establishes the base heat, the smoke mellows everything, and the glaze adds the final sweet-spicy punch. Apply the glaze during the last 30 minutes, letting each layer set slightly before adding the next for maximum sticky goodness.
Ingredients
Instructions
-
1
Remove membrane from ribs.
-
2
Mix brown sugar, paprika, cayenne, garlic, and onion powder.
-
3
Season ribs generously. Try Blues Hog Dry Rub for extra flavor.
-
4
Smoke at 250°F for 3 hours.
-
5
Wrap in foil with a splash of apple juice.
-
6
Cook 2 more hours.
-
7
Mix honey, hot sauce, and melted butter for glaze.
-
8
Unwrap ribs and brush with glaze.
-
9
Cook 30 more minutes until internal temp reaches 195-203°F between the bones and meat pulls back. Use an instant-read thermometer for accuracy.
-
10
Glaze once more before serving.