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Copycat Pollo Tropical Caribbean Rib Recipe

Copycat Pollo Tropical Caribbean Rib Recipe

Tina Cooper
Have you ever craved that rich, finger-licking flavor of Pollo Tropical’s Caribbean ribs but didn’t want to head out? I’ve been there. 
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 4 hours 15 minutes
Total Time 4 hours 30 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine Caribbean
Servings 4 Servings
Calories 234 kcal

Equipment

  • Oven

Ingredients
  

  • 2 racks baby back pork ribs trimmed and cut in half, with the membrane removed
  • Sea salt and freshly cracked black pepper for seasoning
  • 3/4 cup creamy coconut milk
  • 12 teaspoons minced garlic or 4 cloves fresh garlic, finely chopped
  • 4 tablespoons plus 1 teaspoon freshly squeezed lime juice
  • 4 tablespoons plus 1 teaspoon freshly squeezed orange juice
  • 1/2 medium onion coarsely chopped
  • 1 tablespoon concentrated liquid tamarind paste
  • 3 tablespoons tamari sauce or soy sauce
  • 4 teaspoons dark brown sugar
  • 8 teaspoons Barrier Reef Caribbean Spice Blend divided
  • 1 1/2 teaspoons ground ginger
  • 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1 tablespoon Jamaican jerk seasoning
  • 1 teaspoon apple cider vinegar
  • 4 tablespoons apricot preserves

Instructions
 

  • Ready to bring your kitchen to life with these delicious ribs? Let’s walk through the steps:

Step 1: Prepare the Ribs

  • Start by preheating your oven to 300°F (150°C). Take the ribs and season both sides generously with sea salt and freshly cracked black pepper. This lays down the fundamentals for flavor.

Step 2: Make the Marinade

  • In a large bowl, whisk together the coconut milk, minced garlic, lime juice, orange juice, onion, tamarind paste, tamari sauce, brown sugar, ginger, Worcestershire sauce, smoked paprika, jerk seasoning, apple cider vinegar, and apricot preserves. This concoction is going to transform the bland into the grand!

Step 3: Marinate

  • Place the ribs into a large plastic resealable bag or a baking dish. Pour the marinade over the ribs, ensuring they’re well coated. Seal the bag or cover the dish. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours, though overnight is best for max flavor absorption.

Step 4: Bake the Ribs

  • Place the marinated ribs on a lined baking sheet. Reserve a little marinade for basting later if you like. Cover the ribs with aluminum foil to lock in moisture. Bake for 2.5 to 3 hours, until tender.

Step 5: Baste and Caramelize

  • Remove the foil and baste the ribs with the saved marinade. Turn the broiler on high. Broil the ribs for about 5-7 minutes, keeping a close watch to avoid burning. You want them beautifully caramelized!

Step 6: Serve

  • Once the ribs are bubbly and sizzling, take them out of the oven. Let them rest for a few moments before cutting into pieces. Serve with your favorite sides, and enjoy that burst of Caribbean flavor!

Notes

Here are a few tips for making your cooking experience smooth and successful:
  • Use fresh ingredients wherever possible for a more vibrant flavor.
  • Don’t skip the marinating step! That’s where the flavor infusion occurs.
  • If you like extra heat, add more Jamaican jerk seasoning to the marinade.
  • Always let the ribs rest after cooking for better texture.
  • Keep the leftover rib marinade for a dipping sauce for extra flair!

Nutrition

Calories: 234kcal
Keyword Copycat Pollo Tropical Caribbean Rib Recipe
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