Puerto Rican Style Barbecue Ribs

Ingredients

While the original American barbecue ribs are typically slow-cooked and smoky, Puerto Rican style barbecue ribs have a distinct flavor profile. The Puerto Rican version incorporates a blend of traditional spices and a tangy barbecue sauce with a hint of tropical flavors. The ribs are often marinated in a citrus-based marinade before being grilled to perfection, resulting in a deliciously tender and flavorful dish. We alse have the original recipe for Barbecue Ribs, so you can check it out.

• 2 racks of pork ribs (about 4 pounds / 1.8 kg) 2 racks of pork ribs (about 4 pounds / 1.8 kg)
• 1 cup (240 ml) orange juice 1 cup (240 ml) orange juice
• 1/2 cup (120 ml) lime juice 1/2 cup (120 ml) lime juice
• 1/4 cup (60 ml) soy sauce 1/4 cup (60 ml) soy sauce
• 4 cloves garlic, minced 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 teaspoons ground cumin 2 teaspoons ground cumin
• 2 teaspoons paprika 2 teaspoons paprika
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon salt 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 cup (240 ml) Puerto Rican barbecue sauce 1 cup (240 ml) Puerto Rican barbecue sauce

Nutrition

• Calories: 450 kcal / 1880 KJ
• Fat: 30g (Saturated Fat: 10g)
• Carbohydrates: 5g (Sugars: 3g)
• Protein: 40g
• Fiber: 1g
• Salt: 1.5g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a large bowl, combine the orange juice, lime juice, soy sauce, minced garlic, cumin, paprika, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper. Mix well to create the marinade.
2. 2.
   Place the racks of pork ribs in a large resealable plastic bag or a shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the ribs, making sure they are fully coated. Seal the bag or cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight.
3. 3.
   Preheat the grill to medium-high heat.
4. 4.
   Remove the ribs from the marinade, allowing any excess marinade to drip off. Reserve the marinade for basting.
5. 5.
   Place the ribs on the grill and cook for about 5-7 minutes per side, or until nicely browned.
6. 6.
   Reduce the heat to medium-low and continue cooking the ribs, basting with the reserved marinade and turning occasionally, for about 1 to 1 1/2 hours, or until the meat is tender and pulls away from the bone.
7. 7.
   During the last 10 minutes of cooking, brush the ribs with the Puerto Rican barbecue sauce, allowing it to caramelize slightly.
8. 8.
   Remove the ribs from the grill and let them rest for a few minutes before serving.
9. 9.
   Serve the Puerto Rican Style Barbecue Ribs hot and enjoy!

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Orange juice — Use freshly squeezed orange juice for the best flavor.
• Lime juice — Freshly squeezed lime juice adds a tangy kick to the marinade.
• Puerto Rican barbecue sauce — Look for a store-bought Puerto Rican barbecue sauce or make your own by combining ketchup, vinegar, brown sugar, garlic, and spices.

Tips & Tricks

• For extra tenderness, wrap the marinated ribs in foil and bake them in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for 2 hours before grilling.
• Baste the ribs frequently with the marinade to keep them moist and flavorful.
• Serve the ribs with a side of traditional Puerto Rican rice and beans for a complete meal.

Serving advice

Serve the Puerto Rican Style Barbecue Ribs hot off the grill. Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve with lime wedges for an extra burst of flavor. These ribs are perfect for a backyard barbecue or a festive gathering.

Presentation advice

Arrange the ribs on a platter, garnish with cilantro sprigs, and drizzle some additional Puerto Rican barbecue sauce on top for an appetizing presentation. Serve with colorful side dishes to create an enticing spread.