Nigerian Barbecue Ribs
Also known as Nigerian Barbecue Ribs (BBQ Local Style)
Nigerian-style BBQ Ribs is a modern urban Nigerian dish that adapts the global barbecue tradition to the bold, intensely spiced Nigerian palate. Unlike the sweet, tomato-based American BBQ, Nigerian BBQ Ribs are first marinated and parboiled in the classic Nigerian spice blend — Knorr, thyme, curry, onion, Cameroon pepper — then finished over charcoal or in a hot oven, with a final glaze of a spicy, slightly sweet Nigerian BBQ sauce made from tomato, Atarodo, sugar and soy sa

- 120 mintotal time
- 4 to 6serves
- Mediumdifficulty
Ingredients
- 1 big rack of pork or beef ribs, cut into individual pieces
- 1 teaspoon of curry powder
- 1 teaspoon of thyme
- 1 teaspoon of ground Cameroon pepper
- 1 teaspoon of garlic powder
- 1 big onion, sliced
- 3 seasoning cubes (Knorr), crushed
- Salt to taste FOR THE NIGERIAN BBQ GLAZE:
- 3 big big tablespoons of tomato paste
- 2 big tablespoons of soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon of honey or sugar
- 1 teaspoon of Atarodo powder or hot sauce
- 1 teaspoon of garlic powder
- 2 big tablespoons of vegetable oil
Method
- 01
Seasoning. Season the ribs generously with curry, thyme, Cameroon pepper, garlic powder, crushed seasoning cubes and salt. Rub the spices into the meat. Allow to marinate for 1 hour minimum, overnight for best results.
- 02
Parboiling. Place the seasoned ribs in a pot with sliced onion and just enough water to cover. Bring to a boil, then simmer for 30 to 35 minutes until the ribs are partially cooked and tender but not falling apart.
- 03
Making the BBQ Glaze. Combine all glaze ingredients in a small pan over low heat. Stir together until smooth and slightly thickened. The glaze should be thick enough to coat the back of a spoon.
- 04
Grilling and Glazing. Place the parboiled ribs on a hot charcoal grill or in a preheated oven at maximum oven heat. Grill for 15 to 20 minutes, turning and basting with the Nigerian BBQ glaze every 5 minutes. The ribs should develop a deep, caramelised, slightly charred exterior with the glaze baking onto the surface.
- 05
Serving. Serve immediately while hot, with extra glaze on the side for dipping.
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