The appeal of pork paired with fruit can’t be denied. Some combinations are cloyingly sweet and may not be to everyone’s taste, but this complex and zesty formula, from Heinz, will please most rib-lovers. Seasoned with a little of this and a little of that, it has the look of a cherished heirloom recipe that has been tinkered with and improved over the years, the kind that was perfected by some grill-loving guy rather than as a test kitchen project. Since Heinz 57 Sauce contains a measure of apple, its inclusion here makes culinary sense.
1/3 c. chopped onion
1 c. applesauce
1/4 c. apple juice
1/4 c. apple jelly
1/2 c. Heinz 57 sauce
1 tablespoon lemon juice
1/2 teaspoon dried tarragon leaves
1/2 teaspoon allspice
Dash hot pepper sauce
1/8 teaspoon garlic powder
6 racks pork baby back ribs (about 6 lb.)
1/2 c. apple juice
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon dried tarragon leaves
1/8 teaspoon dried sage
For glaze, combine first 10 ingredients in small saucepan. Cook over medium heat 20 min. or until thickened, stirring occasionally. Brush ribs with 1/2 c. apple juice. Combine salt, 1/4 teaspoon tarragon and sage. Rub into ribs; let stand 15 min. Grill over medium hot coals 20 minutes, turning occasionally and brushing with apple juice. Brush with glaze and continue grilling 5 min. Arrange ribs on serving platter and serve with remaining sauce.
MAKES 6 – 8 servings