Heat oven to 300° F.
Mix together the ingredients for the spice rub. Set aside.
In a 9"x13" baking dish, add the ribs in a single layer.
Sprinkle both sides of the ribs with the spice rub.
Pour in the water.
Cover the dish with foil. Bake the ribs for 2 hours.
Check to make sure they are very tender and at least 180°F. If not, bake another 30 minutes.
Remove the foil. Drain the liquid from the baking dish and discard.
Brush on 1 cup of the barbecue sauce generously.
Place the ribs back in the oven, uncovered, and bake another 30 minutes.
Remove from the oven and brush on the remaining barbecue sauce.
Serve immediately.