Preheat the oven to 300°F to 325°F
Remove the membrane from the back of the ribs
Pat the ribs dry with paper towels
Season both sides with salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, and brown sugar
Place the ribs on a foil-lined baking sheet or in a roasting pan
Add a little water, apple juice, or broth to the pan if desired
Cover the ribs tightly with foil
Bake for 2.5 to 3.5 hours, until tender
Remove the foil during the last 20 to 30 minutes if you want a firmer exterior
Brush with barbecue sauce if using
Increase the oven to 400°F and bake for 10 to 15 minutes to caramelize the sauce
Let the ribs rest for 10 minutes before slicing
Cut between the bones and serve