Rib tips are a hidden gem in the world of barbecue-juicy, flavorful, and budget-friendly cuts that pack a punch when cooked right. If you’re wondering how to cook rib tips in the oven, you’re in the right place. This method is straightforward, perfect for any season, and guarantees tender, fall-off-the-bone rib tips that will wow your family and friends.
What Are Rib Tips?
Rib tips are the small, meaty pieces trimmed from spare ribs or baby back ribs. They have a mix of meat, cartilage, and fat, which makes them incredibly flavorful when cooked low and slow. They’re often overlooked but are a favorite in Chicago-style barbecue and beyond.
Ingredients You’ll Need
– Rib tips: About 4 to 5 pounds of pork rib tips from your grocery store or butcher.
– Dry rub: A mix of brown sugar, onion powder, garlic powder, Cajun seasoning, black pepper, smoked paprika, salt, cumin, chili powder, and mustard powder.
– Cooking spray or oil: To help the rub stick and prevent sticking.
– Barbecue sauce (optional): Use your favorite store-bought or homemade sauce for glazing.
Preparing Your Rib Tips
- Clean and trim: Remove the membrane, excess fat, and skin from the rib tips. This helps them cook evenly and become tender.
- Dry thoroughly: Pat the rib tips dry with paper towels to help the dry rub stick better.
- Apply the dry rub: Combine your spices and brown sugar in a bag or bowl. Spray the rib tips lightly with oil, then massage the dry rub onto all sides of the meat for maximum flavor.
- Marinate: Wrap the rib tips in foil and refrigerate for at least 6 to 8 hours, or overnight if possible. This step lets the flavors penetrate deeply.
Cooking Rib Tips in the Oven
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
– Preheat your oven to 300°F (about 150°C). This low temperature is key to breaking down the connective tissue and rendering the fat slowly.
Step 2: Wrap and Bake
– Place the rib tips on a foil-lined baking sheet. Wrap them tightly with aluminum foil to keep moisture in.
– Bake the rib tips for about 2½ to 3 hours. This slow cooking process makes the meat tender and juicy.
Step 3: Sauce and Broil
– After baking, unwrap the rib tips and brush them generously with barbecue sauce.
– Place them under the broiler for 3 to 5 minutes, watching closely, until the sauce caramelizes and forms a sticky glaze.
Step 4: Rest and Serve
– Let the rib tips rest for 10 minutes to allow the juices to redistribute.
– Cut into bite-sized pieces and serve with extra barbecue sauce on the side.
Tips for Perfect Oven-Baked Rib Tips
– Remove the membrane: This thin layer on the back of ribs can be tough; peeling it off ensures more tender meat.
– Low and slow is the secret: Cooking at a low temperature for a longer time breaks down collagen and fat, making the rib tips tender.
– Use foil to trap moisture: Wrapping the rib tips helps them steam in their own juices.
– Don’t skip the broil: The final caramelization step adds a delicious texture and flavor.
– Internal temperature matters: Aim for an internal temperature between 190°F and 220°F for the best tenderness.
Why Oven Cooking Works So Well for Rib Tips
Using the oven to cook rib tips is a fantastic alternative to grilling or smoking, especially if you don’t have access to outdoor equipment. The oven provides consistent heat and allows you to control the temperature precisely, ensuring your rib tips come out tender and juicy every time. Plus, it’s an all-year-round method that doesn’t depend on weather or outdoor space.
Variations to Try
– Spicy rub: Add cayenne pepper or chili powder for a kick.
– Sweet and smoky: Mix in some smoked paprika and brown sugar for a classic barbecue flavor.
– Asian-inspired: Use hoisin sauce or a soy-based glaze instead of traditional barbecue sauce.
– Dry rub only: Skip the sauce and enjoy the pure flavor of the seasoned meat.
Cooking rib tips in the oven is easy, affordable, and incredibly satisfying. With a bit of prep and patience, you’ll have tender, flavorful rib tips that rival any barbecue joint’s offering.
Enjoy your delicious oven-cooked rib tips!