Preheat oven to 275°F
Remove the membrane from the back of the ribs
Pat the ribs dry with paper towels
Trim any excess fat
Rub both sides with salt, pepper, and your preferred dry rub
Place ribs on a foil-lined baking sheet or in a roasting pan
Add a small amount of water, apple juice, or broth to the pan if desired
Cover tightly with aluminum foil
Bake for 2.5 to 3.5 hours
Check for tenderness; the meat should pull back from the bones
Remove from oven and carefully uncover
Brush with barbecue sauce if desired
Increase oven temperature to 400°F
Return ribs uncovered to the oven for 10 to 15 minutes
Let ribs rest for 10 minutes before slicing
Cut between the bones and serve