If You Have A Package Of Raspberries, Make These Chipotle BBQ Ribs The Star Of Your Labor Day Feast

Labor Day is one of those holidays that tends to sneak up on people. It always feels like we're still in the height of summertime fun, enjoying our vacations and endless sunshine, when all of sudden the kids are heading back to school and there's a big barbecue to plan. If you find yourself running around at the last minute trying to prep for a Labor Day feast, know that you're not alone. Once you've taken a breath, try focusing on straightforward, crowd-pleasing recipes, like these sweet and smoky raspberry-spiked chipotle barbecue ribs.

Developed by the talented Michelle McGlinn, this simple recipe manages to incorporate so many elements in one easy-to-prepare dish. It combines a few common rib ingredients, like chipotle chiles, garlic, and brown sugar, with a surprising addition that's probably already in your fridge: a pint of raspberries. The berries add a sweet but tart flavor that pairs beautifully with the heavier ingredients, creating a bright and robust barbecue sauce that's perfect for celebrating the end of summer.

To ensure your ribs are fall-off-the bone tender, try the 3-2-1 cooking method, or just wrap them in foil and slow cook them. Seasonings like ancho chili powder, garlic powder, and onion powder, will go a long way, as will a little paprika and mustard powder. You could even coat the ribs with raspberry jam before cooking to increase the berry flavor.

But the best way to add flavor is through the sauce. To make a raspberry-chipotle sauce, toss a pint of raspberries into a small pot with chipotle chiles in adobo, garlic powder, brown sugar, corn syrup, vinegar, and olive oil and simmer until thick. Once the sauce is strained, slather it on the cooked ribs. Adding raspberry jam with orange juice and honey creates an even sweeter, more complex finish, while a dash of soy sauce brings an umami flavor and lime brightens the flavors. If you don't have raspberries, strawberries work too. 

These ribs pair well with so many classic barbecue side dishes. They taste great with lighter options like grilled corn on the cob or a rainbow slaw but creamy, starchy dishes like potato salad and baked beans will also balance out the rich glaze. Some more inventive sides, like charred cowboy cabbage, can amp up the table too or you can double down on the fruit with a kale and balsamic berry salad.