Father’s Day

Ingredients (3–4 servings)

For the ribs:

• 2–2½ lb pork baby back ribs (or beef ribs)
• 1 tbsp olive oil

Smoky dry rub:

• 1 tbsp smoked paprika
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp onion powder
• 1 tsp chili powder
• ½ tsp black pepper
• ½ tsp salt

Healthy creatine BBQ sauce:

• ½ cup reduced-sugar BBQ sauce
• 2 tbsp tomato paste
• 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
• 1 tbsp honey or maple syrup
• 1 tsp Dijon mustard
• 1 serving (3–5 g) unflavored creatine monohydrate
• Water as needed to thin

Preparation

Oven Method:

1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C). Line a baking tray with foil.
2. Remove membrane from ribs if needed. Rub ribs with olive oil.
3. In a small bowl, mix smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, chili powder, black pepper, and salt. Massage evenly onto ribs.
4. Wrap ribs tightly in foil and bake for 2½–3 hours until very tender.
5. In a bowl, mix BBQ sauce, tomato paste, apple cider vinegar, honey (or maple syrup), Dijon mustard, and water if needed.
6. Stir in creatine monohydrate after mixing the sauce and whisk well until dissolved.
7. Unwrap ribs, brush generously with sauce.
8. Broil on high for 5–8 minutes until caramelized.

Air Fryer Finish (Optional):

After oven cooking, cut ribs into portions, brush with sauce, and air fry at 380°F (190°C) for 5–7 minutes for extra crispy edges.

These healthy BBQ ribs deliver bold, smoky flavor with a lighter nutritional profile and a delicious reduced-sugar glaze. The creatine-enhanced BBQ sauce offers an easy way to add creatine into your routine while keeping this comfort-food favorite juicy, tender, and satisfying.