Dry-Rubbed Baby Backs

Cookbook Category: Appetizers, Pork

This is one of Dave Lieberman's recipes from the excellent Dave's Dinners. Dave has appetizers in mind for this recipe but, double it up, and you have a feast for several fortunate guests.

2 pounds baby back ribs
1 large onion, cut into eighths
2 teaspoons salt
20 grinds fresh black pepper
1 large bay leaf

For the rub:

1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
1 teaspoon ground cumin
2 teaspoons paprika
1 teaspoon dry oregano
2 teaspoons sugar
3 teaspoons salt
25 grinds fresh black pepper

3 tablespoons vegetable oil

Preheat the oven to 375°F.

Place the ribs, onion, salt, pepper, and bay leaf in a stockpot. Cover with cold water and bring to a simmer. Reduce the heat to low and simmer for 30 minutes.

Remove the ribs from the water and place on a baking sheet.

Mix the rub ingredients together well in a small bowl.

Rub the vegetable oil onto the ribs. Pour the rub over the ribs and work the rub fully and evenly into the ribs. Spread the ribs out evenly on the baking sheet.

Bake 30 minutes, until crispy brown.