Recipes

BBQ Pork Ribs with Garlic Coleslaw Recipe

Posted by Niel Neethling on April 30, 2025

Celebrate Father's Day with tender BBQ pork ribs and a zesty garlic coleslaw. The smoky, juicy ribs pair perfectly with the crisp, refreshing side, making this a meal to remember.

Ingredients (Serves 4-6)

BBQ Pork Ribs:

2 racks of pork ribs (baby back, spare, or St. Louis-style)
1/4 cup brown sugar
2 tbsp paprika
1 tbsp garlic powder
1 tbsp black pepper
1 tsp chili powder
1 cup ketchup
1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
1 tsp smoked paprika
1/2 tsp cayenne pepper (optional)
Salt to taste

Garlic Coleslaw:

1/2 head green or red cabbage, shredded
2 large carrots, shredded
1/2 cup mayonnaise
2 tbsp apple cider vinegar
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tsp sugar
Salt and pepper to taste

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Ribs

Remove the membrane from the back of the ribs. Mix brown sugar, paprika, garlic powder, black pepper, chili powder, and salt for the dry rub. Rub generously over the ribs and refrigerate for 1-2 hours.

Step 2: Make the BBQ Sauce

In a saucepan, combine ketchup, apple cider vinegar, smoked paprika, cayenne (if using), and a pinch of salt. Simmer over low heat for 10-15 minutes until thickened. Set aside.

Step 3: Cook the Ribs

Preheat your grill or smoker to 225°F. Place ribs on the cooler side of the grill, bone-side down. Cook for 4-5 hours, basting with BBQ sauce during the last hour. Ribs are done when tender and slightly pulling from the bone.

Step 4: Rest the Ribs

Remove ribs from the grill, wrap in foil, and let rest for 10-15 minutes to redistribute juices.

Step 5: Make the Garlic Coleslaw

Combine shredded cabbage and carrots in a large bowl. In a separate bowl, mix mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, minced garlic, sugar, salt, and pepper. Toss the dressing with the vegetables and chill for 30 minutes before serving.

Step 6: Serve

Slice the ribs and serve with a generous scoop of garlic coleslaw on the side.

Serving Suggestions

Pair with grilled corn on the cob or baked beans for a hearty meal.
Serve with a cold beer or iced tea to complement the smoky flavors.

Customization Ideas

Asian Coleslaw: Add ginger, soy sauce, and sesame oil to the coleslaw for an Asian twist.
Spicy Ribs: Increase cayenne in the BBQ sauce for extra heat.

Storage Tips

Store leftover ribs in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in a 250°F oven, wrapped in foil with a splash of apple juice.
For coleslaw, use vinegar-based dressing if freezing. Store in airtight containers for up to 1 month.

Enjoy Your Father's Day Feast!

This BBQ pork ribs and garlic coleslaw combo is a surefire way to make Father's Day special. Enjoy the smoky, tender ribs and crisp coleslaw with family and friends!