Baby back ribs arguably USA’s best dish

Baby back ribs: To me, they are the most delicious dish that the United States has to offer. The dish combines two of my favorite things: pork ribs and barbecue sauce. The following recipe is, in my opinion, the easiest and tastiest way to prepare baby back ribs.

• Barbecue Pork Baby Back Ribs

Ingredients

3 full racks pork baby back ribs

2 cups ketchup

1 cup apple cider vinegar

1 cup brown sugar

1 cup coffee, prepared

4 garlic cloves, finely chopped

1⁄2 small onion finely chopped

2 tablespoons cayenne pepper

1⁄2 cup chopped fresh parsley, finely chopped

1⁄2 cup cilantro, finely chopped

Cook's note: For best results, pulverize parsley and cilantro in a blender or food processor.

Putting it together

Cut racks in half; season with salt and pepper to taste. Place ribs in an oven-safe dish; cover with aluminum foil, bake in a 375 degree oven for about 21⁄2 hours or until the meat is tender.

In a stainless steel pot, combine remaining ingredients and cook over low heat for about one hour, stirring every five minutes or so.

When the ribs and sauce are done, preheat your barbecue on high until the grill reaches 400 to 450 degrees.

Place ribs on hot grill; brush with sauce. Cook for about 30 seconds; turn and brush with sauce. Cook again for about 30 seconds. Repeat this procedure two or three more times until ribs are nicely browned but not burned.

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Next week, our journey continues northward to Canada for Moose Meat Stew.

Antonio Villagomez is head chef and owner of Cilantro's restaurant in Yuba City.