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Air Fryer Dry Rub Ribs: A Nod to Tradition and a Touch of Modernity

When thinking of comfort food, few things evoke the warm embrace of nostalgia quite like ribs cooked to perfection. In my family, that tradition is beautifully encapsulated by my grandma’s famous dry rub ribs, a recipe passed down through generations. Now, with the magic of modern cooking appliances, I’ve taken this timeless classic and adapted it for the air fryer, yielding tender, flavourful ribs with a satisfying crunch without the fuss of traditional methods.

The Essence of Grandma’s Dry Rub

Before diving into the air fryer method, it’s essential to pay homage to the beloved dry rub that defines these ribs. My grandma had a knack for blending spices that complemented the rich flavour of the meat while also ensuring it remained tender and juicy. Her secret? A combination of paprika, brown sugar, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, and a pinch of cayenne for warmth.

This dry rub not only boasts a medley of robust flavours but also forms a lovely crust that enhances the overall experience of the dish. The beauty of this recipe is its simplicity; the ingredients are readily available, making it an easy go-to for any occasion.

Ingredients

For the dry rub:

• 2 tablespoons paprika
• 2 tablespoons brown sugar
• 1 tablespoon garlic powder
• 1 tablespoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
• Salt, to taste

For the ribs:

• 1 rack of baby back ribs (or spare ribs, according to preference)
• Olive oil (optional)

Instructions

1. Prepare the Ribs: Start by removing the membrane on the back of the ribs for better seasoning absorption and tenderness. This can be done using a paper towel for grip. Once this is removed, rinse the ribs under cold water and pat them dry with kitchen towels.

2. Make the Dry Rub: In a small bowl, mix all the dry rub ingredients until well combined. Feel free to adjust seasoning according to your taste preferences.

3. Season the Ribs: Drizzle the ribs with a touch of olive oil to help the rub adhere better, then generously coat each side of the ribs with the dry rub. Ensure every crevice is covered for maximum flavour.

4. Preheat the Air Fryer: Preheat your air fryer to 180°C (356°F). This ensures an even cooking temperature.

5. Cook the Ribs: Place the seasoned ribs in the air fryer basket. Depending on the size of your air fryer, you may need to cut the ribs into smaller sections to fit comfortably. Cook for approximately 25 to 30 minutes, turning halfway through for even cooking. The ribs are done when they’re tender and the edges start to crisp up.

6. Rest and Serve: Once cooked, let the ribs rest for a few minutes before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute, enhancing the tenderness. Serve with your favourite sides, whether it be coleslaw, potato salad, or simply some crusty bread to soak up the juices.

Bringing Tradition into Modern Cooking

The air fryer offers a fantastic method to prepare ribs, ensuring they are cooked through while retaining a wonderfully crispy exterior. It’s a beautiful blend of my grandma’s time-tested recipe and the convenience of modern kitchen technology.

In every bite, you can taste the love and history behind the recipe, reminding us that good food is about tradition, innovation, and the memories we create around the table. So, gather your loved ones, serve up those air fryer dry rub ribs, and enjoy a meal that celebrates both family heritage and contemporary flavour!

Whether you’re introducing this dish to a new generation or enjoying it as a beloved classic, these air fryer dry rub ribs are sure to become a favourite in any household. Bon appétit!

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