BBQ Ribs with Creamy Mashed Potatoes and Garlic Butter Vegetables – Caribbean Style

Step 1: Prepare the Ribs Seasoning

In a bowl, combine 1 tbsp Cajun seasoning, 1 tbsp rib rub, 1 tsp salt, 1 tbsp smoked paprika, 1 tbsp garlic powder, 1 tbsp onion powder, and 3-4 tbsp water to create a paste. Mix well until all ingredients are incorporated.

Step 2: Season the Ribs

Place the rack of spare ribs on a baking sheet lined with aluminum foil. Distribute the seasoning paste evenly over both sides of the ribs, ensuring they are nicely coated and saturated with the flavorful blend. Cover the ribs tightly with aluminum foil and allow them to rest for about 1 hour so the seasonings can soak in.

Step 3: Roast the Ribs (Covered)

Preheat your oven to 375-400°F (190-200°C). Place the covered ribs in the preheated oven and roast for about 2 hours until tender and pulling away from the bone.

Step 4: Prepare the BBQ Sauce

While the ribs are roasting, prepare the BBQ sauce. In a bowl, combine 1 cup Sweet Baby Ray's Smoky BBQ Sauce, 1/4 cup ketchup, and 1 tbsp sugar. Mix well until all ingredients are incorporated and the sauce is smooth.

Step 5: Baste and Finish Roasting the Ribs

After 2 hours, remove the ribs from the oven. Uncover them and generously baste both sides with the prepared BBQ sauce. Place the ribs back into the oven, uncovered, for another 15 minutes at about 450°F (230°C) to get a smoky, slightly charred effect and allow the sauce to caramelize. Be mindful of oven temperature as it varies.

Step 6: Rest and Slice the Ribs

Once done, remove the BBQ ribs from the oven and allow them to sit and cool down for about 10 minutes before cutting into individual ribs. This helps to retain their juiciness.

Step 7: Prepare the Mashed Potatoes

Peel 3 large Yukon Gold potatoes and cut them into small, uniform pieces. Add the potato pieces to a pot of boiling salted water and cook for 10-15 minutes until they are nice and soft. Drain the potatoes thoroughly.

Step 8: Mash the Potatoes

Return the drained potatoes to the pot. Add 1/2 tsp salt, 2 tbsp butter, and 2 tbsp mayonnaise. Mash the potatoes until creamy but with a bit of texture, not too smooth. Adjust to your preference.

Step 9: Prepare the Garlic Butter Vegetables

In a pan, melt 2 tbsp butter. Add 2 finely chopped garlic cloves and 1/4 cup finely chopped onion. Sauté for about 30 seconds to release their aromatic flavors.

Step 10: Stir-fry the Vegetables

Add the sliced carrots, green bell pepper, red bell pepper, broccoli florets, and trimmed green beans to the pan. Stir-fry for about 2-3 minutes, allowing the vegetables to soak up the garlic butter flavor while retaining their texture. Season with 1/2 tsp salt and 1/2 tsp all-purpose seasoning, then stir again.

Step 11: Serve the Meal

Plate the delicious BBQ ribs, creamy mashed potatoes, and vibrant garlic butter stir-fried vegetables. The macaroni pie, mentioned as a side, can also be served alongside. Enjoy your simple yet absolutely delicious meal!

• Adjust seasoning quantities to your personal preference for the ribs.

• Keep an eye on the oven temperature as it can vary, especially during the uncovered baking phase to prevent burning the sauce.

• For the mashed potatoes, you can adjust the amount of butter and mayonnaise to achieve your desired creaminess and texture.

• Try different types of BBQ sauce for a varied flavor profile.

• Experiment with other vegetables like asparagus, green beans, or mushrooms for the garlic butter stir-fry.

• Add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the rib seasoning for an extra kick.