how long to bake spare ribs at 350
Baking spare ribs at 350°F typically takes about 2-2.5 hours, depending on their size and desired tenderness. Here’s a concise, step-by-step guide:
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Preparation:
- Preheat Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Prep Ribs: Remove the membrane from the back of the ribs for better flavor penetration and tenderness.
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Seasoning:
- Generously season the ribs with your preferred rub, allowing the seasoning to sit on the ribs for about 15-30 minutes before baking.
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Cooking:
- Wrapped in Foil: Wrap the ribs tightly with aluminum foil and bake for about 2 hours. This method enhances moisture retention and tenderness.
- Unwrapped: If you prefer a crisper exterior, you can omit the foil. This may extend the cooking time to 2.5-3 hours.
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Internal Temperature:
- Use a meat thermometer to check for an internal temperature between 190°F (88°C) and 205°F (96°C) for optimal tenderness.
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Optional Sauce:
- During the last 10-15 minutes of cooking, brush the ribs with BBQ sauce. If they were wrapped, remove the foil to allow the sauce to set and the exterior to crisp slightly.
- Resting:
- After baking, let the ribs rest for 5-10 minutes before serving to allow juices to redistribute.
This method ensures tender, flavorful ribs with a nicely set sauce. Adjust the cooking time based on rib size and personal preference for tenderness.