My Southern is Coming Out

The Denver Bronco's victory at the AFC Championship game against the New England Patriots, therefore securing their spot in the Super Bowl XLVIII, was the cause of Philip's good mood for a couple of days after the game. I wanted to make a manly meal for him to keep this happy feeling going.


We had gotten a great deal on a slab of ribs earlier in the week, and after searching several grocery stores, I finally found some breaded okra. I also got some potatoes, and cookie dough. Philip was super excited about the meal I had planned, I could tell from the "I can't wait for dinner!" texts throughout the day.

I had never made ribs before, so I googled a few recipes and, of course, called my mom for advice. I ended up taking bits of each and making my own recipe. And it actually came out perfect! *pats self on back*

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 200 degrees.  

Step 2: Remove the film from the underside of your slab of ribs, rinse the slab, and pat dry with a paper towel. 

Philip got to them before I could take a picture.

Step 3: Put two pieces of foil in a cross shape in a deep baking pan. You'll need enough to make a pouch around the ribs. Place your slab in the middle of the pan. (Note: If your slab is too long for your pan, like mine was, cut the slab into 2-3 pieces and fit them in as needed.) 

Step 4: Season to taste. I put some salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and season all on mine. 

Step 5: Make the pouch loosely around your slab with your foil and put 2 cups of water in the bottom of the pan outside of the foil. 

Step 6: Slow cook for 5-7 hours. Add some BBQ sauce and uncover for the last hour. 

Step 7: ENJOY!

The fried okra and mashed potatoes were the perfect compliment to the ribs. As we were eating, I realized this was the most southern meal I had made for him. I looked at Philip and said "My southern is coming out." He just laughed at me and licked his fingers clean.

I'm sure at some point he'll ask me to re-create this meal, as he asks for corn casserole a lot now since Thanksgiving.

TIP: Men listen up! Your lady (or man, if you swing that way) will love it when you ask for a particular meal or dish from time to time. It lets them know that you like what they make for you, and gives them a chance to "take care" of you.