Robin's Random Recipes

Adapted from Good Eats.

2 whole slabs pork baby back ribs

Dry Rub:
8 tablespoons light brown sugar, tightly packed (3.75 oz)
1.5 tablespoons kosher salt (the original rec. calls for 3T which makes the sauce too salty when it reduces)
1 tablespoon chili powder
1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
1/2 teaspoon Old Bay Seasoning
1/2 teaspoon rubbed thyme
1/2 teaspoon onion powder

Braising Liquid:
12 oz. beer or wine
2 tablespoons white wine vinegar
2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
1 tablespoon honey
2 cloves garlic, chopped

In a bowl, combine all dry ingredients and mix well. Place each slab of baby back ribs on a piece of heavy-duty aluminum foil, shiny side down. Sprinkle each side generously with the dry rub. Pat the dry rub into the meat. Refrigerate the ribs for a minimum of 1 hour. In a microwavable container, combine all ingredients for the braising liquid. Microwave on high for 1 minute.

Place the ribs and liquid in a crockpot and cook on high for six hours.

Transfer the braising liquid into a skillet (the larger surface area will help it reduce faster.) Bring the liquid to a simmer and reduce by half or until of a thick syrup consistency. Meanwhile, transfer the ribs to a foil-lined half sheet pan. Brush the glaze onto the ribs. Place under the broiler just until the glaze caramelizes lightly. Place the remaining hot glaze into a bowl and toss the rib portions in the glaze.

*This recipe makes several batches of dry rub. I make a double batch and keep it in the pantry.