Barbecue-Glazed Beef Ribs with Mediterranean Salad
This barbecue-glazed beef ribs with Mediterranean salad is a perfect balance of smoky, tender ribs and a fresh, tangy salad. The slow-cooked, fall-off-the-bone beef ribs are coated in a homemade barbecue glaze, while the crisp Mediterranean salad adds a refreshing contrast. This dish is perfect for family dinners, BBQ parties, or special occasions!
Recipe Overview
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 3.5 – 4 hours
Total Time: ~4 hours
Servings: 4-6
Ingredients
For the Barbecue Beef Ribs:
1 rack (2-3 lbs) beef ribs
1 tbsp olive oil
1 tbsp smoked paprika
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp onion powder
1 tsp salt
½ tsp black pepper
½ tsp cayenne pepper (optional for heat)
For Homemade Barbecue Glaze:
½ cup ketchup
¼ cup apple cider vinegar
¼ cup honey or brown sugar
2 tbsp halal Worcestershire sauce
1 tbsp Dijon mustard
1 tsp smoked paprika
½ tsp garlic powder
½ tsp black pepper
1 tbsp hot sauce
For the Mediterranean Salad:
2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
1 cucumber, diced
½ red onion, thinly sliced
½ cup Kalamata olives
½ cup feta cheese, crumbled
2 tbsp fresh parsley or basil, chopped
For the Mediterranean Dressing:
3 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
2 tbsp lemon juice (freshly squeezed)
1 tsp red wine vinegar
1 small garlic clove, minced
½ tsp dried oregano
Salt & pepper to taste
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Halal Beef Ribs
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C) or heat a grill to low heat.
2. Remove excess fat from the ribs and pat dry with a paper towel.
3. Rub the ribs with olive oil, then coat evenly with paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, black pepper, and cayenne .
4. Wrap the ribs tightly in foil and place them on a baking sheet.
Step 2: Slow-Cook the Ribs
1. Oven Method: Bake for 3.5 – 4 hours until tender.
2. Grill Method: Cook on indirect heat for 3.5 – 4 hours, flipping occasionally.
Step 3: Make the Barbecue Glaze
1. While the ribs are cooking, whisk together all barbecue glaze ingredients in a saucepan.
2. Simmer on low for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until thickened.
Step 4: Glaze & Finish the Ribs
1. Remove the ribs from the oven or grill, unwrap them, and brush generously with barbecue glaze.
2. Increase oven temp to 425°F (220°C) or move ribs to direct heat on the grill.
3. Cook for 10–15 more minutes, flipping and basting with extra glaze until caramelized.
Step 5: Prepare the Mediterranean Salad
1. In a bowl, mix cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, olives, feta, and parsley.
2. In a small jar, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, red wine vinegar (or extra lemon juice), garlic, oregano, salt, and pepper.
3. Drizzle the dressing over the salad and toss to combine.
Step 6: Serve & Enjoy!
Slice the barbecue beef ribs and serve with extra barbecue sauce on the side.
Pair with Mediterranean salad for a fresh, tangy contrast.
Notes & Tips
Make it Spicier: Add extra cayenne or hot sauce to the barbecue glaze.
Meal Prep: Cook ribs ahead of time and reheat on the grill or oven before serving.
Extra Crispy Glaze: Broil the ribs for 3-5 minutes at the end for extra caramelization.
Storage:
Ribs:Store in the fridge for up to 4 days or freeze for up to 3 months.
Salad:Store undressed for up to 2 days; add dressing before serving.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How do I know if Worcestershire sauce is halal?
A: Check the label for non-alcoholic Worcestershire sauce or use soy sauce + vinegar as a substitute.
Q: Can I use lamb ribs instead of beef?
A: Yes! Lamb ribs work great but may cook faster—check for tenderness around 3 hours.
Q: What if I don’t have a grill?
A: The oven method works perfectly, and you can finish the ribs under the broiler for a grilled effect.
Q: What’s the best substitute for feta cheese?
A: Use feta or crumbled goat cheese for a similar texture.
Q: Can I cook the ribs in a slow cooker?
A: Yes! Cook on low for 8 hours, then glaze and broil for caramelization.
Nutrition Information
Calories: ~750 kcal
Protein: ~40g
Carbs: ~35g
Fats: ~50g
Fiber: ~6g
Enjoy your juicy, smoky, and fully barbecue beef ribs with a refreshing Mediterranean salad!