The epic feasts of Game of Thrones brought food to life in ways that made even the most stoic viewer drool. Whether you dreamed of dining in Winterfell’s Great Hall or partaking in the revelry of King’s Landing, food always played a central role in the series. If you’re looking to recreate some of that Westerosi magic, these roasted ribs with garlic and herb crust are the perfect dish to transport you straight into the heart of the Seven Kingdoms.
This recipe captures the medieval flavors that would have been right at home on the tables of Jon Snow, Arya Stark, or even Tyrion Lannister. With a mouth-watering garlic and herb crust, these roasted ribs are seasoned to perfection, juicy on the inside, and crispy on the outside. Let’s dive in and bring the taste of Westeros to your kitchen.
Ingredients for the Roasted Ribs with Garlic and Herb Crust
Before we begin, here’s what you’ll need to create this feast-worthy meal. The ingredients are simple yet robust, echoing the hearty meals of medieval times, but with a modern twist.
Main Ingredients:
- 2 full racks of baby back ribs (pork or beef, depending on preference)
- 4 cloves of garlic, finely minced
- 2 tablespoons fresh rosemary, chopped
- 2 tablespoons fresh thyme, chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh oregano, chopped
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon coarse sea salt
- 1 tablespoon cracked black pepper
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
- 1 cup of red wine (optional for basting)
For the Glaze (Optional):
- 1/4 cup honey
- 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
This combination of herbs and spices brings the dish to life, creating an irresistible flavor profile fit for any Westerosi lord or lady. Now, onto the method!
Step-by-Step: Preparing Your Game of Thrones Roasted Ribs
1. Preheat and Prepare
First, preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C). The secret to succulent ribs is cooking them low and slow, ensuring the meat becomes tender while locking in all the incredible flavors from your seasoning.
As the oven heats, prepare the ribs. Remove the thin membrane on the back of the ribs for optimal texture and flavor absorption. This step helps your herbs and spices penetrate the meat more evenly, leading to a much better bite.
2. Season the Ribs
In a small bowl, combine the minced garlic, rosemary, thyme, oregano, olive oil, salt, pepper, paprika, and cumin. Mix well until the ingredients form a fragrant herb paste.
Next, rub the ribs generously with the Dijon mustard, acting as a binder for the herb mixture. The mustard won’t overpower the taste but will help the herbs adhere to the ribs and add an extra layer of flavor.
Using your hands, massage the garlic and herb paste onto the ribs, ensuring an even coating. Every inch of the ribs should be packed with flavor!
3. Slow-Roast the Ribs
Place the seasoned ribs on a wire rack in a large roasting pan, bone-side down. If desired, pour the red wine into the bottom of the pan for added moisture and flavor. The wine will steam up as the ribs cook, helping to keep them moist and adding a touch of richness to the final dish.
Cover the ribs loosely with aluminum foil and roast for 2.5 to 3 hours. Check periodically to ensure the ribs aren’t drying out, basting them with any juices that accumulate in the pan.
4. Create the Glaze
While the ribs roast, you can prepare an optional glaze to enhance the final dish. In a small saucepan, combine the honey, balsamic vinegar, and soy sauce. Simmer on low heat for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the glaze thickens slightly. This will add a sweet yet tangy dimension to your already flavorful ribs.
Finishing Touches: The Final Roasting Step
5. Crisp the Crust
Once the ribs have finished their slow roast and are tender to the touch, increase the oven temperature to 450°F (230°C). Remove the foil and brush the ribs with the optional glaze for an added punch of flavor.
Return the ribs to the oven for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the crust becomes golden and slightly crispy. Keep an eye on them to ensure they don’t burn—the goal is to achieve a caramelized outer layer while maintaining that juicy, tender meat inside.
6. Rest and Serve
After removing the ribs from the oven, let them rest for 5-10 minutes before cutting. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring each bite is as succulent as possible.
Slice the ribs between the bones, and prepare to serve. If you want to truly embrace the medieval theme, serve these ribs on a large wooden board, alongside rustic accompaniments like roasted root vegetables, crusty bread, and a goblet of red wine (or ale if you’re feeling like a Stark).
Why These Roasted Ribs Are Perfect for a Game of Thrones Feast
These roasted ribs are the epitome of comfort food, with a touch of elegance that makes them worthy of a Game of Thrones-style banquet. The garlic and herb crust is aromatic and savory, while the optional glaze adds a burst of sweet and tangy complexity that contrasts perfectly with the meat’s natural richness.
The slow-roasting process ensures that the ribs are fall-off-the-bone tender, and the final blast of heat creates a crisp crust that’s perfect for feasting. Whether you’re hosting a viewing party, celebrating a special occasion, or just indulging in a themed dinner, this recipe brings the world of Westeros to life in the most delicious way possible.
Medieval Pairings: What to Serve with Your Roasted Ribs
To complete your Game of Thrones feast, consider pairing these ribs with some classic medieval-style sides:
- Roasted Root Vegetables: Carrots, parsnips, and potatoes roasted with olive oil, salt, and rosemary.
- Grain Porridge: A barley or farro pilaf would make an excellent rustic side, harking back to simpler times in Westeros.
- Crusty Bread: Freshly baked bread to soak up the juices from the ribs.
- Mulled Wine: A spiced red wine would be a fitting drink to accompany your meal, especially on cold nights.
These pairings, along with the ribs, will transport you and your guests back to the grand feasting halls of the Seven Kingdoms.