The BEST Sauces for Ribs: A Tasty Guide!

ByViolet ParkerEditorial Policy

From sweet and sticky to tangy and spicy, the right sauce can take your bbq game to the next level when it comes to serving up ribs! 

Need a little inspiration? 

We’re here to help. 

In this guide, we’re going to walk you through some of the most delicious sauces for ribs, and share quick and easy recipes for making your own at home. 

Let’s get going! 

Sweet Sauces for Ribs 

When it comes to ribs, a sweet sauce can really elevate the flavour and tenderness of the meat.

In this section, we’ll explore a few popular sweet sauce options for your ribs: Brown Sugar Based Sauces, Honey BBQ Sauce, and Molasses Infused Sauces.

Brown Sugar Based Sauces

Brown sugar is a favourite ingredient for rib sauces because it adds a rich sweetness that complements the smoky flavours from the grill.

To make a simple brown sugar sauce, you’ll need:

  • 200g brown sugar
  • 120ml ketchup
  • 60ml apple cider vinegar
  • 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika
  • 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper (optional)

Combine all ingredients in a saucepan and cook over low heat, stirring frequently, until the sugar has fully dissolved.

Brush this lip-smacking sauce onto your ribs during the last few minutes of grilling, and enjoy the sticky, sweet caramelisation it creates! 

Honey BBQ Sauce

For those who prefer a more natural sweetness, honey BBQ sauce is a fantastic option.

The honey adds a light, floral note to the traditional barbecue flavours.

To make your own honey BBQ sauce, gather the following ingredients:

  • 120ml honey
  • 120ml ketchup
  • 60ml apple cider vinegar
  • 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 tbsp wholegrain mustard
  • 1/2 tsp garlic powder

In a saucepan, mix all the ingredients together and heat gently until fully combined. Be sure to taste and adjust seasonings as necessary.

This versatile sauce can be brushed onto your ribs during cooking or served as a dipping sauce on the side.

Molasses Infused Sauces

Molasses brings a deep, rich sweetness to rib sauces, perfect for those who enjoy bold flavours.

A popular choice is to combine molasses with zesty citrus, creating a balance of sweet and tangy.

Here’s a quick recipe to whip up a molasses citrus sauce:

  • 120ml molasses
  • 80ml orange juice
  • 60ml ketchup
  • 1 tbsp soy sauce
  • 1/2 tsp ground ginger
  • 1/4 tsp ground cumin

Combine all ingredients in a saucepan and heat gently until the sauce thickens.

The rich, bold flavours of the molasses and citrus will create a mouth-watering glaze on your ribs, making them truly irresistible.

Spicy Sauces for Ribs

Spicy sauces can truly elevate the flavour of your ribs, adding an exciting kick to each bite.

In this section, we’ll be covering three popular types of spicy sauces: Cayenne Pepper Sauces, Hot Sauce Infused Sauces, and Korean BBQ Sauce.

Cayenne Pepper Sauces

Cayenne pepper sauces are a perfect match for those seeking a fiery and bold taste.

To make a delicious cayenne pepper sauce for your ribs, start with the following ingredients:

  • 1/2 cup ketchup
  • 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
  • 1 tablespoon molasses
  • 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to your preferred level of spiciness)
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
  • Salt and pepper, to taste

Combine these ingredients in a saucepan, and bring to a gentle simmer.

Allow the sauce to thicken and let the flavours meld for roughly 20 minutes before applying generously to your ribs.

Hot Sauce Infused Sauces

If you’re fond of classic hot sauces like Sriracha or Tabasco, a hot sauce infused sauce would be right up your alley.

To create your own hot sauce infused sauce, first decide on your favourite hot sauce. Then, use it as a base to build on additional flavours.

Here’s a simple recipe using Sriracha:

  • 1/2 cup Sriracha
  • 1/4 cup honey
  • 2 tablespoons brown sugar
  • 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
  • 1 tablespoon soy sauce
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon onion powder

Whisk these ingredients together until well combined, and then brush generously onto your ribs before grilling or baking.

Korean BBQ Sauce

Korean BBQ sauces usually consist of a mixture of savoury, sweet, and spicy flavours, making them a well-rounded addition to your ribs.

A popular choice is to use gochujang, a Korean red pepper paste.

Here is a simple Korean BBQ sauce recipe to try on your ribs:

  • 1/4 cup gochujang
  • 1/4 cup soy sauce
  • 2 tablespoons honey
  • 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
  • 1 tablespoon sesame oil
  • 1 teaspoon ginger, minced
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

Mix the ingredients together in a bowl, and let it marinate with your ribs for at least 30 minutes.

Then, cook your ribs, regularly basting them in the sauce to build up a delicious, sticky glaze.

Savoury Sauces for Ribs

Garlic and Onion Based Sauces

Who doesn’t love a good garlic and onion sauce for their ribs? When it comes to flavour, these two ingredients are a match made in heaven.

Start by combining garlic powder and onion powder with a touch of black pepper to really emphasise the savoury aspect of your ribs.

If you’re looking for something a bit different, try mixing in some mustard to add a tangy kick.

You’ll find this combination truly enhances the taste of your ribs, and your guests will be asking for more!

Worcestershire Sauce Enhanced Sauces

Give your ribs a robust and slightly tangy flavour by incorporating Worcestershire sauce into your sauce recipe.

This versatile ingredient can be easily combined with your choice of spices—such as black pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder—to create a savoury sauce that really brings out the best in your ribs.

Don’t hesitate to experiment with different amounts of Worcestershire sauce to find the perfect balance for your taste buds.

Soy Sauce Infused Sauces

Asian flavours and ribs? Absolutely!

For a unique twist on your traditional rib sauce, try adding soy sauce or teriyaki sauce to your recipe.

The salty, umami taste of soy sauce pairs wonderfully with the rich, meaty flavours of your ribs, while teriyaki sauce adds a touch of sweetness to balance it out.

Just ensure you don’t overpower your ribs by using too much sauce—remember, moderation is key! 

If you need to save a little time, check out our guide to improving store bought teriyaki sauce. 

Tangy Sauces for Ribs

Vinegar Based Sauces

When preparing a tangy sauce for your ribs, vinegar is an essential ingredient that adds a delightful punch to the flavour.

There are multiple types of vinegar you can experiment with in your rib sauces.

  • Apple cider vinegar is a popular choice for many tangy rib sauces, as it provides a slightly fruity tang that complements the rich flavours of the meat. Combine it with spices, such as smoked paprika and cayenne pepper, for added depth.
  • White wine vinegar offers a milder, more refined tang, which pairs well with delicate herbs like dill or tarragon. Consider adding a splash of dry white wine to enhance the flavour even further.
  • Red wine vinegar provides bold, robust flavours that can stand up to heartier ribs. Infuse it with rosemary or thyme, and don’t shy away from stronger spices like crushed black peppercorns.

Citrus Infused Sauces

For a delicious twist on tangy sauces, incorporate citrus fruits like lemon or lime into your rib sauce recipes.

  • Lemon juice: Harness the bright, zesty taste of lemon to create a lively sauce that truly shines on your ribs. Combining it with herbs, such as parsley or cilantro, balances the tang and adds extra freshness.
  • Lime juice: Lime offers a more subtle tang with a slightly sweet undertone. Mix it with spices like cumin or coriander, and consider throwing in a few dashes of hot sauce for an enticing kick.

Remember, the key to success when making tangy sauces for ribs is to play with your spices, herbs, and vinegar (or citrus) varieties.

Trust your instincts and taste buds to guide you as you create your own custom rib sauce that’s sure to delight your guests! 

Speciality Sauces

Alabama White BBQ Sauce

You might be surprised to find a white BBQ sauce on the list, but trust us, it’s a game-changer.

The Alabama white BBQ sauce is a rich, tangy, and creamy alternative to the classic red BBQ sauce. It features a mayonnaise base, with a blend of apple cider vinegar, lemon juice, and various spices.

Perfect for ribs, it adds an unexpected twist to your barbecue experience, making it a delightful addition to your sauce arsenal.

Bourbon Whiskey Sauces

For those seeking a bit of heat and boldness, look no further than bourbon whiskey sauces.

These unique BBQ sauces are infused with the rich and complex flavour of bourbon whiskey.

Combining the sweetness of brown sugar, tanginess of vinegar, and the smokiness of the whiskey, this sauce will elevate your ribs, giving them a bold and distinctive taste.

Be sure to make your own bourbon whiskey BBQ sauce, as store-bought versions might lack the authentic richness and complexity you’re looking for.

Homemade Barbecue Sauce

Nothing beats the taste of homemade BBQ sauce, as you get the freedom to adjust the ingredients according to your preferences.

Creating your own homemade barbecue sauce for ribs is simple, and you’ll enjoy the extra level of customisation it offers.

Begin with a ketchup or tomato sauce base, and then experiment with different levels of sweetness, tanginess, and smokiness.

You can also add your favourite spices or herbs to give your ribs that special touch. Whether you prefer a rich, sweet, or slightly spicy sauce, homemade sauces can cater to all your BBQ desires.

Dry Rubs and Marinades

Pork Dry Rubs

When it comes to pork dry rubs, there’s a whole world of flavours waiting for you to explore. To make a perfect pork dry rub for your ribs, you can start with a simple mixture of common ingredients, like paprika, brown sugar, salt, and pepper.

Don’t hesitate to add your own touch with spices like cumin, coriander, or even a bit of cayenne pepper for heat.

Remember, balance is key when creating your dry rub, making sure no single flavour overpowers the others.

Applying the dry rub is easy. First, make sure the ribs are cleaned and dried properly. Then, generously coat the ribs with your dry rub mixture. To achieve the best flavour, wrap your ribs with cling film and let them rest in the fridge for at least 2-3 hours, or even overnight if time permits.

Classic Barbecue Dry Rubs

When it comes to classic barbecue dry rubs, there’s a lot to choose from.

These rubs are generally versatile and can be used for a variety of ribs, including pork, beef, and even chicken.

Start with a base of brown sugar, salt, paprika, and black pepper, then customise the rub to your liking with additional ingredients such as garlic powder, onion powder, or even chilli powder for a spicy kick.

In addition to dry rubs, marinades can play a crucial role in elevating the flavour of your ribs.

Marinades offer an entirely different taste profile, often incorporating liquids like vinegar, citrus juice, or soy sauce to break down the meat and create a tender, juicy texture.

Try adding some of your preferred herbs or spices to the marinade – ingredients like rosemary, thyme, or even ginger can add a unique touch to your dish.

Whether you choose a dry rub or a marinade for your ribs, remember that the key to successful seasoning is finding a combination of flavours that suit your palate.

Enjoy experimenting with different textures and tastes, and most importantly – have fun while cooking!