We all know how much of a bummer it is when you fall in love with a food that’s “only available for a limited time”. These promotional offerings do generate buzz, but they also leave fans feeling the loss when the item inevitably disappears from the menu.

The McDonald’s McRib sandwiches are probably the most famous of these foods. They’re so famous that they inspired a 2003 episode of The Simpsons, with the “Ribwich” standing in for the sandwich. They also have a website dedicated to international McRib sightings (complete with prices) so you can see where they’re being offered currently.

Did you know that it’s actually really easy to make these BBQ sammies at home? All it takes is a little planning.

To get started you need to make the pork mixture. We used plain ground pork from the grocery, but if for some reason you can’t find that then you can grind your own by placing some chopped pork shoulder into a food processor.

To the pork you add some water and sugar. Then you have to form them into patties. McRibs are famous for their mini “riblet” shape, but you can replicate this at home easily. Form the patties as oblong shapes, then take a chopstick or the handle of a wooden spoon and make little indents in the patties.

The big secret to these sandwiches is to freeze the patties so they keep their shape during frying. It does take a little planning to make this recipe, but not a whole of effort. When you’re ready for your McRibs simply fry them up in their frozen state.

The traditional toppings for this sandwich are only BBQ sauce, pickles, and onions. But, since you’re making these at home now’s your opportunity to add jalapeños, cheese, lettuce, or any other goodies you’ve always wanted to try on a McRib but never had the chance to.

If you’re one of the throngs of people who really miss the McRib every time it gets taken from the menu at your local McDonald’s then you need this recipe in your life. If for no other reason than to get you through between McRib sightings!