Soulful BBQ Ribs and Coleslaw

Name: Soulful BBQ Ribs and Coleslaw
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 4 h
Total time: 4 h 20 min
Yield: Serves 4
Ingredients: 2 racks of pork ribs; 1 cup of your favorite BBQ sauce; 2 tablespoons brown sugar; 1 tablespoon smoked paprika; 1 tablespoon garlic powder; 1 tablespoon onion powder; 1 teaspoon salt; 1 teaspoon black pepper; 4 cups shredded green cabbage; 1 cup shredded carrots; 1/2 cup mayonnaise; 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar; 1 tablespoon honey; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

I absolutely love the combination of tender, smoky BBQ ribs paired with a zesty, crunchy coleslaw. This soulful dish speaks to my heart and brings back memories of summer cookouts with friends and family. The slow-cooked ribs are infused with rich flavors and a sweet, tangy sauce, while the coleslaw adds a refreshing crunch that complements the BBQ beautifully. Each bite is a celebration of flavor and texture, making it a go-to recipe for gatherings or just a delicious night in.

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2026-01-30T17:54:27.762Z

When I first mastered the art of BBQ ribs, I knew I had found a recipe worth sharing. After trials of various marinades and cooking times, I finally discovered that slow-cooking them low and slow yields that fall-off-the-bone tenderness we all crave. I love adding extra layers of flavor with a homemade BBQ sauce that balances sweetness and spice perfectly.

The coleslaw is my go-to side because it adds a vibrant crunch that contrasts beautifully with the rich, smoky ribs. I make sure to let it chill in the fridge for at least an hour before serving—it enhances the flavors and gives that satisfying crispness with each bite.

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Tender, smoky ribs with a perfect caramelized crust
Zesty coleslaw that adds a refreshing crunch
Ideal for summer gatherings or cozy dinners at home

The Art of Cooking Ribs

Cooking ribs is as much an art as it is a science. The low and slow method at 250°F is crucial for developing the tender texture that just falls off the bone. To ensure even cooking, I recommend positioning the ribs bone-side down and checking that they are not overcrowded in the roasting pan. This allows hot air to circulate evenly around the meat, which prevents tough spots and uneven textures.

Another key element to great BBQ ribs is the seasoning mix. The combination of brown sugar and smoked paprika creates a lovely caramelization on the outside, while garlic and onion powders enhance the depth of flavor. For those who want to experiment, consider adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or adjusting the sugars based on your sweetness preference. Remember, this rub can be applied hours in advance to soak in maximum flavor.

Creating Perfect Coleslaw

Coleslaw is more than just a side; it's an essential component to contrast the richness of BBQ ribs. Using fresh cabbage and carrots ensures a crunchy texture that holds up against the saucy ribs. I prefer using green cabbage, but purple cabbage can add a vibrant color for a fun twist. If you're looking to switch things up, consider adding finely chopped apples or raisins for a sweet touch, or even a dash of sriracha for heat.

The dressing's balance is key here. The apple cider vinegar adds acidity that cuts through the fattiness of the ribs, while honey provides mild sweetness. Feel free to modify the mayonnaise's thickness by using Greek yogurt as a lighter alternative, which also boosts the creaminess. Allowing the slaw to chill for at least an hour melds the flavors beautifully, creating a refreshing and zingy bite.

Ingredients

BBQ Ribs

2 racks of pork ribs
1 cup of your favorite BBQ sauce
2 tablespoons brown sugar
1 tablespoon smoked paprika
1 tablespoon garlic powder
1 tablespoon onion powder
1 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon black pepper

Coleslaw

4 cups shredded green cabbage
1 cup shredded carrots
1/2 cup mayonnaise
2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
1 tablespoon honey
Salt and pepper to taste

Make sure to assemble the ingredients beforehand for a smoother cooking process.

Instructions

Prepare the Ribs

Preheat your oven to 250°F (120°C). Mix together the brown sugar, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Rub this mixture all over the ribs. Place the ribs in a roasting pan and cover tightly with aluminum foil. Bake for 3 hours.

Add BBQ Sauce

Remove the foil after 3 hours and brush the ribs with BBQ sauce. Return to the oven, uncovered, for another hour, allowing the sauce to caramelize and the ribs to develop a rich flavor.

Make the Coleslaw

In a large bowl, combine the shredded cabbage and carrots. In a separate bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, honey, salt, and pepper. Pour the dressing over the cabbage mixture and toss to coat. Refrigerate for at least one hour.

Serve the ribs hot with a generous side of coleslaw for a balanced meal.

Pro Tips

For added flavor, marinate the ribs overnight before cooking them. This allows the spices to penetrate deeply into the meat.

Storage and Reheating Tips

Leftover ribs can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days. To retain their moisture when reheating, wrap the ribs in foil and heat in a preheated oven at 300°F until warmed through, about 20-25 minutes. Alternatively, you can glaze them with some additional BBQ sauce before reheating to add back that tasty sticky finish.

Coleslaw, on the other hand, is best consumed within three days for optimal crunch. The dressing can sometimes cause the cabbage to wilt faster, so if you plan to store it longer, consider dressing only what you intend to eat right away. This keeps the cabbage crisp and enjoyable for days.

Serving Suggestions

These BBQ ribs shine when served with hearty sides such as cornbread or baked beans, but don’t hesitate to get creative! Consider offering a variety of sauces on the side, from spicy to tangy, so guests can personalize their experience. This also allows for an interactive component to your meal, making it more festive.

For a truly memorable dining experience, layer the ribs on a large platter surrounded by generous scoops of the coleslaw. This not only looks appealing but invites everyone to dig in and share. Adding a sprinkle of fresh herbs, like parsley or cilantro, over the coleslaw adds a pop of color and freshness that is welcoming to your guests.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use beef ribs instead of pork?

Yes, beef ribs work as well, but adjust the cooking time as beef typically requires longer cooking.

→ How spicy is this BBQ sauce?

It's mildly spicy due to the smoked paprika, but you can add cayenne pepper for extra heat.

→ Can I make coleslaw ahead of time?

Absolutely! In fact, making it a few hours before serving allows the flavors to meld beautifully.

→ What's the best way to reheat leftover ribs?

Reheat covered in the oven at 300°F (150°C) until warmed through to keep them tender.