Heart-Healthy Classic Barbecue Ribs

Indulge in the smoky, savory flavors of these *Heart-Healthy Classic Barbecue Ribs*, a guilt-free twist on an all-time favorite. Made with lean pork back ribs and a flavorful dry rub featuring smoked paprika, garlic, and cumin, this recipe keeps things heart-smart without sacrificing taste. The low-sodium, homemade barbecue sauce combines salt-free tomato paste, balsamic and apple cider vinegar, a touch of honey, and liquid smoke for a perfectly balanced, tangy-sweet glaze. Slow-cooked to tender perfection and finished with a caramelized crust, these ribs are a healthier way to enjoy barbecue. Perfect for family dinners or gatherings, they’re a delicious option for those looking to reduce fat and sodium without giving up bold, classic flavors.

Nutriscore Rating: 67/100

Prep Time:20 mins

Cook Time:180 mins

Total Time:200 mins

Servings: 4

Ingredients

• 2 pounds Lean pork back ribs
• 2 tablespoons Smoked paprika
• 1 tablespoon Garlic powder
• 1 tablespoon Onion powder
• 1 teaspoon Ground black pepper
• 1 teaspoon Ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon Dried oregano
• 2 tablespoons Brown sugar substitute
• 1 can (6 oz) Salt-free tomato paste
• 1 cup Balsamic vinegar
• 1 cup Apple cider vinegar
• 3 tablespoons Honey
• 1 teaspoon Liquid smoke
• 1 cup Water
• 2 tablespoons Olive oil

Directions

Step 1

Preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C).

Step 2

Remove the thin membrane from the back of the ribs. This can be done by sliding a knife under the membrane and pulling it off.

Step 3

In a small bowl, combine smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, cumin, oregano, and brown sugar substitute to create the dry rub.

Step 4

Rub the spice mixture evenly over both sides of the ribs.

Step 5

Wrap the ribs tightly with aluminum foil and place them on a baking sheet.

Step 6

Bake the ribs in the preheated oven for 2 1/2 to 3 hours or until tender.

Step 7

While the ribs are baking, prepare the barbecue sauce: In a saucepan over medium heat, combine salt-free tomato paste, balsamic vinegar, apple cider vinegar, honey, liquid smoke, water, and olive oil.

Step 8

Bring the sauce to a simmer, stirring occasionally, and allow it to cook for about 15 minutes until slightly thickened.

Step 9

Once the ribs are tender, remove them from the oven and carefully remove the aluminum foil.

Step 10

Increase the oven temperature to 425°F (220°C).

Step 11

Brush the ribs generously with the prepared barbecue sauce.

Step 12

Return the ribs to the oven, uncovered, and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the sauce has caramelized.

Step 13

Remove from the oven, let the ribs rest for 5 minutes before slicing, and serve with additional sauce on the side.

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	(1810.3g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	3604.5

Total Fat 237.6g	0%
Saturated Fat 80.0g	0%
Polyunsaturated Fat 2.7g
Cholesterol 716.7mg	0%
Sodium 872.6mg	0%
Total Carbohydrate 148.3g	0%
Dietary Fiber 9.1g	0%
Total Sugars 119.3g
Protein 195.8g	0%

Vitamin D 0IU	0%
Calcium 451.6mg	0%
Iron 18.2mg	0%
Potassium 3587.9mg	0%

*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.

Source of Calories

Fat: 60.8%

Protein: 22.3%

Carbs: 16.9%