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Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Ribs: Baby back ribs are my first choice for tenderness and flavor. If you can’t find them, spare ribs work well too, just remember that they might take a bit longer to cook.
Olive Oil: This adds richness to the marinade. If you’re looking for alternatives due to dietary restrictions, avocado oil can be a great substitute, offering a similar taste and texture.
Garlic: Fresh garlic gives a robust flavor. If you’re in a pinch, garlic powder can be used, but I’d recommend using fresh whenever possible for the best taste.
Spices: Dried oregano and thyme are key for that Mediterranean flavor. If you have fresh herbs, you can substitute them; just use about three times the amount needed for dried. For a twist, try adding some red pepper flakes for a bit of heat!
Honey: This adds a hint of sweetness. If you prefer to skip it, maple syrup or agave nectar can work as substitutes, or you can leave it out entirely for a tangy flavor.
How Do I Remove the Silver Skin from Ribs?
Removing the silver skin is important for tender ribs. This tough membrane can make them chewy. Here’s how to do it:
- Flip the ribs so the bone side is up. Use a blunt knife to gently pry up one corner of the silver skin.
- Once you have a good grip, use a paper towel to help you pull it off. It can be slippery!
- Work slowly and carefully, ensuring you don’t tear the meat while removing it.
Getting rid of this membrane will lead to more flavorful, tender ribs. Trust me, it’s worth the few extra minutes!
Easy Greek Ribs Recipe (Baked Then Grilled)
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Ribs:
- 2 pounds pork ribs (baby back or spare ribs)
For the Marinade:
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon dried oregano
- 1 tablespoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon honey (optional)
For Garnish:
- Fresh parsley, chopped
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 20 minutes to prepare, and around 2.5 to 3 hours to bake. After baking, you’ll grill the ribs for about 10-14 minutes. Plan for at least 3 hours in total, including marinating time, to get those tender and flavorful ribs!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 300°F (150°C). This low temperature is perfect for making the ribs tender and juicy.
2. Prepare the Ribs:
Next, it’s time to prepare the ribs. Carefully remove the silver skin (that tough membrane) from the back of the ribs. This step helps make them more tender. Once done, rinse the ribs under cold water and pat them dry with paper towels.
3. Make the Marinade:
In a medium bowl, combine the olive oil, minced garlic, dried oregano, dried thyme, ground cumin, paprika, salt, black pepper, lemon juice, and honey (if using). Mix everything together until it’s well blended.
4. Marinate the Ribs:
Now, rub the marinade all over the ribs. Make sure you cover every side so that the flavors really seep in. Let the ribs marinate for at least 30 minutes. For best results, you can pop them in the fridge and let them marinate for up to 4 hours.
5. Bake the Ribs:
After marinating, place the ribs on a baking sheet lined with aluminum foil (for easy cleanup!). Cover the top of the ribs with another piece of foil to keep them moist. Bake them in the preheated oven for about 2.5 to 3 hours, until they are super tender.
6. Grill the Ribs:
Once baked, it’s time to fire up the grill! Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Remove the ribs from the oven and take off the top layer of foil. Place the ribs on the grill and cook for about 5-7 minutes on each side. As they cook, brush them with any leftover marinade to get that nice caramelized finish.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
After grilling, remove the ribs from the grill and let them rest for a few minutes. This helps keep all those tasty juices inside. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley before serving, and enjoy your delicious Easy Greek Ribs! Pair them with tzatziki sauce or your favorite side dishes for a complete meal.
Can I Use Other Cuts of Meat for This Recipe?
Absolutely! While pork ribs are traditional, you can use pork shoulder or chicken thighs if preferred. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly; boneless chicken will cook faster, while larger cuts like shoulder may need longer baking times.
How Long Should I Marinate the Ribs?
For maximum flavor, it’s best to marinate the ribs for at least 30 minutes. However, refrigerating the marinated ribs overnight is even better, as it allows more time for the flavors to penetrate the meat.
What Can I Use Instead of Olive Oil?
If you don’t have olive oil on hand, you can substitute it with avocado oil or vegetable oil. These oils have a higher smoke point and will work well in the marinade without affecting the flavors too much.
How Do I Store Leftover Ribs?
Store any leftover ribs in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, wrap them in foil and place them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, which will help keep them moist.
