How To Cook Ribs On The Stove

How To Cook Ribs On The Stove: A Finger-Licking Guide

If you are craving juicy and tender ribs but don’t have access to a grill, fear not! You can still achieve mouthwatering results right on your stove. Cooking ribs on the stove is a convenient and delicious alternative that will leave you satisfied. Follow these steps to master the art of stove-cooked ribs in no time.

Choose Your Ribs Wisely

When it comes to cooking ribs on the stove, it’s essential to choose the right type of ribs. St. Louis-style spare ribs or baby back ribs are your best options. They are tender and packed with flavor, making them perfect for stove cooking.

Prepping the Ribs

1. Cleaning: Start by rinsing the ribs under cold water and patting them dry with paper towels. This step helps remove any bone fragments or excess moisture that may affect the cooking process.
2. Removing the Membrane: Flip the ribs over and locate the membrane, a thin layer of connective tissue on the back of the rack. Gently loosen it with a butter knife, then use a paper towel to grip the membrane and pull it off completely. Removing the membrane allows the flavors to penetrate the meat more effectively.
3. Seasoning: Now it’s time to add some delicious flavor to your ribs. Create a dry rub using your preferred combination of spices, such as paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Massage the dry rub generously onto both sides of the ribs, ensuring each rib is well-coated.

Stove Cooking Method

Now that your ribs are prepped and seasoned, it’s time to start cooking.

1. Preheat the Pan: Place a large, heavy-bottomed skillet or cast-iron pan over medium heat. Allow it to preheat for a few minutes until hot.
2. Add Oil and Sear: Drizzle a bit of oil onto the hot pan and spread it evenly. Carefully place the seasoned ribs onto the pan, bone side down. Sear the ribs for about 2-3 minutes on each side until they develop a nice crust.
3. Add Liquid and Cover: Pour in your choice of liquid, such as broth, apple cider, or BBQ sauce, into the pan. The liquid will help to keep the ribs moist while they cook. Cover the pan with a tight-fitting lid or aluminum foil to trap the steam and heat.
4. Simmer and Cook: Reduce the heat to low and allow the ribs to simmer and cook for about 1-2 hours. The low heat and steam will ensure the meat becomes incredibly tender and easily pulls away from the bone.

Finishing Touches

Once the ribs are cooked to perfection, it’s time to add the final touches.

1. Broiling: Preheat your oven’s broiler on high. Transfer the cooked ribs onto a baking sheet and brush them with your favorite BBQ sauce. Place them under the broiler for a few minutes, just until the sauce caramelizes and forms a sticky glaze.
2. Rest and Serve: Remove the ribs from the oven and let them rest for a few minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more flavorful and tender bite. Cut the ribs into individual servings and serve them hot.

There you have it! A simple and delicious guide on how to cook ribs on the stove. With a bit of patience and some flavorful seasonings, you can enjoy succulent ribs without the need for a grill. So fire up your stove, and get ready to savor tender and finger-licking goodness!