Latvian-style Barbecue Ribs

Ingredients

While American barbecue ribs are typically cooked low and slow, Latvian-style ribs are often prepared using a combination of grilling and braising methods. Additionally, the seasonings and flavors used in Latvian cuisine differ from those in American cuisine, giving these ribs a unique and delicious twist. We alse have the original recipe for Barbecue Ribs, so you can check it out.

• 2 racks of pork ribs (about 2 kg / 4.4 lbs) 2 racks of pork ribs (about 2 kg / 4.4 lbs)
• 1 onion, finely chopped 1 onion, finely chopped
• 4 cloves of garlic, minced 4 cloves of garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• 2 tablespoons brown sugar 2 tablespoons brown sugar
• 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce 1 tablespoon soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon caraway seeds 1 teaspoon caraway seeds
• Salt and pepper, to taste Salt and pepper, to taste
• Fresh parsley, for garnish Fresh parsley, for garnish

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 450 kcal / 1880 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 30g, 10g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 8g, 6g
• Protein: 35g
• Fiber: 1g
• Salt: 1.5g

Preparation

1. 1.
   Preheat the grill to medium-high heat.
2. 2.
   In a small saucepan, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, and sauté until softened.
3. 3.
   Stir in the tomato paste, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, soy sauce, Dijon mustard, smoked paprika, dried thyme, caraway seeds, salt, and pepper. Cook for 2-3 minutes, until the flavors are well combined.
4. 4.
   Place the ribs on the preheated grill and cook for about 5 minutes on each side, until they are nicely browned.
5. 5.
   Transfer the ribs to a large baking dish and pour the prepared sauce over them, making sure to coat them evenly.
6. 6.
   Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and place it in the preheated oven at 160°C (320°F) for 2-3 hours, or until the ribs are tender and the meat easily pulls away from the bone.
7. 7.
   Remove the foil and increase the oven temperature to 220°C (430°F). Return the ribs to the oven and cook for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened and caramelized slightly.
8. 8.
   Remove the ribs from the oven and let them rest for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Pork ribs — For the best results, choose meaty ribs with a good amount of marbling. This will ensure that the ribs are tender and flavorful after cooking.
• Tomato paste — Use a high-quality tomato paste to enhance the richness of the sauce.
• Smoked paprika — Opt for smoked paprika to add a smoky flavor to the ribs.

Tips & Tricks

• For extra smoky flavor, you can add a small amount of liquid smoke to the sauce.
• If you prefer a spicier kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili flakes to the sauce.
• Basting the ribs with the sauce every 30 minutes while they are baking will result in a more flavorful and moist end result.
• Serve the ribs with traditional Latvian side dishes like potato salad or sauerkraut for an authentic experience.
• Leftover ribs can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven or on the grill.

Serving advice

Serve the Latvian-style Barbecue Ribs hot, garnished with fresh parsley. These ribs are perfect as a main course for a family dinner or a festive gathering.

Presentation advice

Arrange the ribs on a platter, drizzle any remaining sauce over them, and sprinkle with fresh parsley for an appetizing presentation. Serve with a side of Latvian potato salad or sauerkraut for a complete meal.