Chili's-Style Baby Back Ribs

This version captures the signature smoky sweetness using minimally processed sweeteners and artisanal spices instead of industrial additives.

↓ Jump to Recipe 0 cooked this Pin

Ingredients

  • 3 lbs organic baby back ribs
  • 3 tbsp avocado oil
  • 1 tsp coarse sea salt
  • 1 tsp black pepper
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1/2 tsp onion powder
  • 1/2 tsp ground cumin
  • 1 cup organic tomato puree
  • 1/3 cup raw honey
  • 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar
  • 1 tsp liquid smoke
  • 1 sprig fresh rosemary (optional)

Clean swaps

How we upgrade the restaurant version with better ingredients.

As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases. Some links are affiliate links — if you buy through them we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you.

Shop the clean pantry

Reorder the shelf-stable staples for this recipe.

What you'll need

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C) and line a large roasting pan with parchment paper.
  2. Pat the ribs dry with paper towels and remove the thin membrane (silverskin) from the bone side of each rack, then rub them thoroughly with avocado oil and the spices: salt, pepper, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and cumin.
  3. Let the seasoned ribs rest for 20 minutes to allow the spices to penetrate the meat.
  4. In a medium bowl, whisk together the tomato puree, raw honey, apple cider vinegar, liquid smoke, and rosemary.
  5. Place the ribs in the roasting pan, pour the sauce over them, and coat them thoroughly on all sides.
  6. Cover the pan tightly with foil and roast for 2.5 to 3 hours, until the meat is tender and begins to pull away from the bone.
  7. Remove the foil, brush the top of the ribs with any remaining sauce, and broil for 3–5 minutes until caramelized, watching closely so the honey doesn't burn.

FAQ

Why use avocado oil instead of a typical seed oil?

Avocado oil is naturally high in monounsaturated fats and free from impurities that can result from the refining process of seed oils, making it a healthier alternative.

Is raw honey better than other types for this recipe?

Yes, raw honey retains its nutritional profile including antioxidants, enzymes, and probiotics which are often removed during pasteurization in commercial honeys.

Can I substitute the rosemary with another herb?

Certainly! You can try thyme or sage for a different flavor profile while maintaining the natural essence of the dish.

More from Chili's

Also try

Cooked it?

Tap to add it to the count of cooks who made this.