Move over, Christmas ham—there’s a new star on the holiday table this year! For those in Campbell looking to add a little zing to their Christmas dinner, these Pomegranate-Glazed Ribs are the perfect way to spice up your holiday spread. This recipe is all about bold flavors, festive vibes, and a touch of sweetness with a kick. Plus, it’s included in our Christmas Guide 2024—so you know it’s a must-try.
Why Ribs for Christmas?
Let’s face it—holiday traditions are great, but sometimes they need a little shake-up. These ribs are not just any ribs; they’re triple-pomegranate-powered! We’re talking about layers of flavor that will make your taste buds dance like they’re at a holiday party. From sticky pomegranate molasses to tangy juice and fresh seeds sprinkled on top, this dish screams festive fun.
And don’t worry—it’s easier than it sounds. With just 40 minutes of active cooking time (and some patience for roasting and marinating), you’ll have a show-stopping centerpiece that serves 8 to 10 people, perfect for your family gathering or even a casual backyard Christmas dinner under the California stars.
What Makes These Ribs Special?
Here’s the breakdown of why these ribs are worth your time:
- Flavor Explosion: Smoky spices meet sweet and tangy pomegranate molasses. Add a hint of heat from jalapeños, and you’ve got a flavor profile that’s anything but boring.
- Tender Perfection: Slow-roasting ensures the meat falls right off the bone.
- Festive Garnish: Fresh pomegranate seeds add color and crunch, making the dish look as good as it tastes.
Now, let’s get cooking!
Ingredients You’ll Need
Here’s your shopping list:
- For the Spice Rub:
- ½ cup packed dark brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons chili powder
- ¼ teaspoon ground allspice
- ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper
- ¼ teaspoon smoked paprika
- Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper
- For the Ribs:
- 2 racks of baby back ribs (about 2¼ pounds total)
- ¾ cup pomegranate molasses (divided)
- 1 cup pomegranate juice
- 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
- 1 jalapeño, thinly sliced
- For the Sauce:
- ½ cup ketchup
- 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
- For Garnish:
- ½ cup fresh pomegranate seeds
Step-by-Step Directions
Prep Time: The Night Before
- Mix the spice rub: In a bowl, combine brown sugar, chili powder, allspice, cayenne, smoked paprika, salt (1 tablespoon), and black pepper.
- Brush the ribs with ¼ cups of pomegranate molasses, then coat them evenly with the spice rub. Press it in like you mean it! Cover and refrigerate for at least two hours or overnight.
Roast Time: Slow and Steady
- Preheat your oven to 250°F—low and slow is key here.
- Mix pomegranate juice, balsamic vinegar, and sliced jalapeño in a roasting pan. Place the ribs on top and cover tightly with foil.
- Bake for 1½ to 2 hours, until the meat is tender enough to pull away with a fork.
Rest & Sauce Time
- Let the ribs rest on a baking sheet for about 30 minutes while you prep the sauce.
- Place the roasting pan (with all those delicious juices) over medium-high heat on your stovetop.
- Add ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, and the remaining ½ cups of pomegranate molasses to the pan juices. Whisk everything together and simmer until thickened about 15 to 20 minutes.
Broil Time: The Grand Finale
- Brush the ribs generously with about ½ cup of BBQ sauce.
- Broil on the top rack of your oven for 3 to 5 minutes, rotating halfway through if needed. Keep an eye on them—you want caramelized perfection, not charred disaster!
Serve & Garnish
Slice up those beautiful ribs and transfer them to a serving platter. Sprinkle with fresh pomegranate seeds for that extra festive touch. Serve with remaining BBQ sauce on the side because more sauce = more happiness.
Pro Tips for Success
- Plan Ahead: Marinate overnight if possible; it makes all the difference in flavor.
- Don’t Skip the Seeds: They’re not just for looks—they add texture and brightness that balance out the rich sauce.
- Adjust Heat Levels: Prefer milder flavors? Skip or reduce the jalapeño.
Why Campbell Folks Will Love This
Campbell is all about blending tradition with creativity—just like these ribs! Whether you’re hosting friends or family this Christmas, this dish will surely spark conversations (and second helpings). Plus, with local markets offering fresh produce year-round, finding high-quality ingredients like pomegranates is as easy as pie—or should we say ribs?
So this holiday season in Campbell, California, ditch the same old ham and try something bold, colorful, and downright delicious. After all, nothing says “Merry Christmas” like sticky fingers and happy faces around the table!
Source: foodnetwork.com
Header Image Source: foodnetwork.com
