Enjoy the delicious taste of BBQ ribs while keeping it healthy with our essential tips. Learn how to prepare and cook ribs that are flavorful, tender, and lower in calories and fat.
Opt for leaner cuts like baby back ribs over spare ribs. Baby back ribs have less fat and are a healthier choice for a BBQ meal.
Before cooking, trim any visible fat from the ribs. This helps reduce the overall fat content and makes for a healthier dish.
Create a flavorful dry rub using spices and herbs instead of sugar-heavy marinades. Spices like paprika, garlic powder, cumin, and chili powder add flavor without extra calories.
Marinate ribs in a citrus-based mixture, like lemon or lime juice, which helps tenderize the meat naturally and adds a fresh flavor without added sugar.
Slow-cooking ribs in the oven or on the grill over indirect heat helps render out fat and keeps the meat tender. Avoid deep-frying or cooking over high direct heat.
Make your own BBQ sauce using natural sweeteners like honey or maple syrup, and avoid high-fructose corn syrup. Include ingredients like tomatoes, vinegar, mustard, and spices for a healthier sauce.
Serve smaller portions of ribs alongside a variety of healthy side dishes. This helps keep the meal balanced and ensures you don't overeat the ribs.