Sense of Accomplishment Ribs

Every time I make these, I feel a real sense of accomplishment. It is kind of an arduous process, but the result is well worth the wait. The ribs are saucy, sticky and simply delicious. I recommend Famous Dave's Rich and Sassy barbecue sauce, but whatever sauce you use, the ribs should be divine. It's a three-step process that takes some time, but if you're sitting around on a Saturday afternoon, this a great (and simple) way to pass some time.

Ingredients:

There isn't an exact science to this recipe, I apologize. But it's kind of no-fail, it's just meat, after all.

• Pinch salt
• Pinch black pepper
• Small handful red pepper flakes
• 3 lb slab baby back ribs
• A whole lot of barbecue sauce

Directions:

1. Cut ribs into 3- or 4- bone chunks. I use sharp kitchen shears, it's much easier than a knife.
2. Boil water in a large pot, reduce to med-high, and season water with salt, black pepper and pepper flakes
3. Put ribs in water, cover and let boil for 25 minutes
4.  Take the ribs out and let them rest for 30 minutes
5. Heat the grill and lightly grease it
6. Baste the ribs with barbecue sauce and grill them for 5-7 minutes on each side
7. Preheat oven to 325
8. When the ribs come off the grill, transfer them to a baking dish and smother them in barbecue sauce
9. Cover the dish and bake for 20 minutes

The ribs get fully cooked on the stove. The grill adds some smokiness and the oven gets them all soft and saucy.

CAUTION: Barbecue sauce is very acidic, so make sure you serve with sides that will cut through that acidity. Some steamed vegetables would be a nice complement, instead of something like potato salad that is full of vinegar.