Pomegranate-Glazed Christmas Ribs are a festive and flavorful dish that brings a touch of elegance to your holiday table. The sweet and tangy pomegranate glaze perfectly complements the tender, juicy ribs, creating a mouthwatering combination that is sure to impress your guests. This dish is not only beautiful but also easy to prepare, making it a perfect centerpiece for your Christmas feast!
Ingredients List
For the Ribs:
- 2 racks of baby back ribs (about 3-4 pounds)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
For the Pomegranate Glaze:
- 1 cup pomegranate juice
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon fresh ginger, grated
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
For Garnish:
- Pomegranate seeds
- Fresh parsley or cilantro, chopped
Timing
Preparing Pomegranate-Glazed Christmas Ribs takes about 15 minutes of prep time and 2 hours of cooking time.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Ribs
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C).
- Season Ribs: Remove the membrane from the back of the ribs and season both sides generously with salt and pepper.
Step 2: Make the Pomegranate Glaze
- Combine Ingredients: In a saucepan over medium heat, combine pomegranate juice, brown sugar, soy sauce, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, grated ginger, black pepper, and cayenne pepper (if using).
- Simmer: Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for about 10-15 minutes, or until it thickens slightly. Remove from heat and set aside.
Step 3: Bake the Ribs
- Prepare Baking Sheet: Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil for easy cleanup. Place a wire rack on top of the baking sheet.
- Place Ribs: Arrange the ribs on the wire rack and brush them with olive oil.
- Bake: Cover the ribs with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 2 hours.
Step 4: Glaze the Ribs
- Glaze Ribs: After 2 hours, remove the foil and brush the ribs generously with the pomegranate glaze.
- Broil: Increase the oven temperature to 400°F (200°C) and return the ribs to the oven. Broil for an additional 10-15 minutes, basting with more glaze every 5 minutes, until the ribs are caramelized and sticky.
Step 5: Serve
- Garnish: Remove the ribs from the oven and let them rest for a few minutes. Garnish with pomegranate seeds and chopped parsley or cilantro before serving.
Nutritional Information
Here’s a quick glance at the nutritional profile of Pomegranate-Glazed Christmas Ribs (per serving, based on 6 servings):
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 450 |
| Protein | 30g |
| Fat | 30g |
| Carbohydrates | 20g |
| Fiber | 1g |
| Sugar | 14g |
Tips for Customization
- Add Spices: Experiment with additional spices such as smoked paprika or cumin in the glaze for extra depth of flavor.
- Use Different Meats: Try using pork shoulder or beef short ribs for a different texture and flavor profile.
- Make It Spicy: Add more cayenne pepper or a splash of hot sauce to the glaze for a spicy kick.
Storing Tips for the Recipe
Store any leftover ribs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.
Conclusion
Pomegranate-Glazed Christmas Ribs are a stunning and delicious dish that will elevate your holiday meal. The combination of sweet and tangy flavors with tender, succulent meat makes these ribs a memorable centerpiece for your Christmas feast. Enjoy them with your favorite sides for a festive celebration!
FAQs
Can I use frozen ribs?
Yes, you can use frozen ribs. Just ensure they are fully thawed before cooking for even results.
Can I make the glaze ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the pomegranate glaze a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator until ready to use.
What sides pair well with these ribs?
These ribs pair wonderfully with roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad for a balanced meal.
Pomegranate-Glazed Christmas Ribs Recipe
Ingredients
- For the Ribs:
- • 2 racks of baby back ribs (about 3–4 pounds)
- • Salt and pepper, to taste
- • 1 tablespoon olive oil
- For the Pomegranate Glaze:
- • 1 cup pomegranate juice
- • 1/2 cup brown sugar
- • 1/4 cup soy sauce
- • 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- • 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- • 2 cloves garlic, minced
- • 1 teaspoon fresh ginger, grated
- • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- • 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
- For Garnish:
- • Pomegranate seeds
- • Fresh parsley or cilantro, chopped
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Ribs
1.Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
2.Remove the membrane from the back of the ribs and season both sides generously with salt and pepper.
Step 2: Make the Pomegranate Glaze
1.In a saucepan over medium heat, combine pomegranate juice, brown sugar, soy sauce, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, grated ginger, black pepper, and cayenne pepper (if using).
2.Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for about 10–15 minutes, or until it thickens slightly. Remove from heat and set aside.
Step 3: Bake the Ribs
1.Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil and place a wire rack on top.
2.Arrange the ribs on the wire rack and brush them with olive oil.
3.Cover the ribs with foil and bake for 2 hours.
Step 4: Glaze the Ribs
1.After 2 hours, remove the foil and brush the ribs generously with the pomegranate glaze.
2.Increase oven temperature to 400°F (200°C) and return the ribs to the oven.
3.Broil for 10–15 minutes, basting with more glaze every 5 minutes, until the ribs are caramelized and sticky.
Step 5: Serve
1.Let the ribs rest for a few minutes.
2.Garnish with pomegranate seeds and chopped parsley or cilantro before serving.
