Authentic Mexican Costillas de Tamarindo (Pork Ribs with Tamarindo BBQ)

Tamarind is beloved in Mexico, often enjoyed as a syrup drizzled over shaved ice or made into refreshing agua frescas. Growing up, my dad used to make tamarind drinks for us, so I thought, why not try it on pork ribs? I’ve used apricots, prunes, and even grape jelly to glaze ribs before, and tamarind’s unique sweet-sour flavor is a natural fit. The combination of the tangy tamarind, sweetened with sugar, creates a mouthwatering glaze that complements the savory pork perfectly. My kids love it and always ask for more—it’s a fun and flavorful twist on traditional BBQ ribs.