The aroma of succulent ribs glazed in a sweet and tangy pomegranate sauce wafts through your kitchen, instantly making your mouth water. Each bite promises a burst of flavor, with tender meat that falls off the bone, making this Pomegranate-Glazed Christmas Ribs Recipe a festive must-have for every holiday gathering. sweet and tangy relish savory cranberry brie bites perfect cranberry sauce pairing.
Imagine gathering around the table with laughter ringing in the air, plates piled high with these glistening ribs, and everyone raving about how you’ve outdone yourself this time. This dish is not just food; it’s an experience that brings warmth and joy to any occasion. For more inspiration, check out this Tasty Beef Round Steak Recipes recipe.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- The Pomegranate-Glazed Christmas Ribs are easy to prepare, making them perfect for busy holiday gatherings
- Their rich flavor profile combines sweet and savory elements that please every palate
- The vibrant red glaze adds visual appeal, elevating your festive table setting
- Plus, they’re versatile enough to serve at parties or cozy family dinners
I remember the first time I made these ribs for my family; their delighted faces were priceless as they devoured every last morsel.
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Baby Back Ribs: Aim for meaty ribs with a good layer of fat for tenderness when cooked.
- Pomegranate Juice: Fresh juice offers the best flavor; look for pure juice without added sugars.
- Brown Sugar: Choose light brown sugar for sweetness that balances the tartness of the pomegranate.
- Garlic Powder: This adds depth; fresh garlic works too if you want an extra kick. tangerine garlic roast lamb.
- Paprika: Use smoked paprika to enhance the flavors with a subtle smokiness.
- Salt and Pepper: Essential seasonings to elevate all other flavors in the dish.
- Apple Cider Vinegar: A splash adds acidity and balances the sweetness of the glaze.
- Olive Oil: Use a bit for cooking; it helps keep the ribs moist.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it Together
Prepare Your Ribs: Start by preheating your oven to 300°F (150°C). Remove the silver skin from the back of the ribs for better flavor absorption during cooking.
Make the Glaze: In a bowl, mix together pomegranate juice, brown sugar, garlic powder, paprika, salt, pepper, and apple cider vinegar until smooth and well combined.
Season and Sear Ribs: Rub olive oil on both sides of the ribs. Generously apply salt and pepper before placing them on a hot skillet to sear each side for 3-4 minutes until golden brown.
Bake with Love: Place seared ribs on a baking sheet lined with foil. Brush half of the pomegranate glaze over them. Cover tightly with foil and bake for 2 hours until tender.
Finish with Glaze**: After baking, remove foil and brush remaining glaze over ribs. Broil on high for 5-7 minutes until caramelized and sticky; watch closely!
Enjoy these juicy Pomegranate-Glazed Christmas Ribs as they steal the show at your holiday feast!
You Must Know
- The Pomegranate-Glazed Christmas Ribs are not just delicious; they will impress your guests with their vibrant color and unique flavor
- Perfectly tender and sticky, these ribs become a centerpiece that everyone raves about
- Don’t be surprised if you find yourself licking the glaze off your fingers!
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by marinating the ribs for at least two hours to absorb flavors. Sear them in a hot pan for crispy edges, then finish cooking in the oven for tenderness.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap pomegranate juice with any berry juice for a different flavor profile. Adding spices like cinnamon or star anise can elevate the dish to new heights.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftover ribs in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F until warm, brushing with extra glaze for moisture.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- For perfectly tender ribs, low and slow cooking is key; this ensures they are melt-in-your-mouth delicious
- Don’t rush the searing process; it adds a delightful texture
- Lastly, always taste your glaze before using; adjustments can make all the difference!
Sharing this recipe brings back memories of my family’s Christmas dinner when my cousin declared these ribs “life-changing.” It was a proud moment as everyone devoured them happily!
FAQ
Can I use other meats for this recipe?
Yes, you can adapt this glaze for chicken or pork to suit your preference.
How do I know when the ribs are done?
Ribs are done when they are tender and pull away easily from the bone.
Can I prepare these ribs a day ahead?
Absolutely! Prepare them a day early and reheat before serving for maximum flavor.
Pomegranate-Glazed Christmas Ribs
- Total Time: 2 hours 20 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 4 people 1x
Description
Indulge in the festive flavors of Pomegranate-Glazed Christmas Ribs, a show-stopping dish that will have your guests asking for seconds. These tender baby back ribs, coated in a sweet and tangy pomegranate glaze, are perfect for holiday gatherings. With their vibrant appearance and melt-in-your-mouth texture, these ribs are not just a meal; they create lasting memories around the table.
Ingredients
- 2 lbs baby back ribs
- 1 cup pomegranate juice (pure, no added sugars)
- 1/2 cup brown sugar (light)
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 2 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar
- 1 tbsp olive oil
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C). Remove silver skin from the back of the ribs.
- In a bowl, mix pomegranate juice, brown sugar, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, pepper, and apple cider vinegar until smooth.
- Rub olive oil on both sides of the ribs and season generously with salt and pepper. Sear in a hot skillet for 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown.
- Place seared ribs on a foil-lined baking sheet. Brush half of the glaze over them. Cover with foil and bake for 2 hours until tender.
- Remove foil and brush remaining glaze over ribs. Broil on high for 5-7 minutes until caramelized.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 2 hours
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4 oz (113g)
- Calories: 290
- Sugar: 18g
- Sodium: 620mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 22g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 14g
- Cholesterol: 80mg