Oh yeah for ribs, my buddy whose family came from West Virginia gave me this. I don't even use reqular BBQ sauce on ribs anymore.
Apple Cider Vinegar
Brown Sugar
Old Bay
You've got to use a lot of the sugar and Old Bay, enough so it's heavy to stir, but definitely not sludgy. Heat in the microwave for a minute and apply in layers during the last 30 minutes of cooking (too much earlier and it will burn to the outside of the ribs) The more you apply the stickier your ribs will be of course.
"You've got to use a lot of the sugar and Old Bay..."
Man after my own heart. Use Old Bay (or J.O.) on everything.
That's why Texas BBQ dry-rubs don't include any sugar of any sort. A little heat will carmelize it, but it burns too quickly. Some people try to turn meats into hard candy, and I just don't get it. If I grew up further SE, maybe I'd feel differently!?!?!