If you're looking to impress at your next barbecue, these Smoky Maple Bourbon Ribs are your ticket to success. The combination of sweet maple syrup, robust bourbon, and a hint of smoky paprika creates a flavor profile that's hard to resist. Perfect for a summer cookout or a cozy fall dinner, these ribs are sure to become a family favorite.
Pork ribs are the star here, offering a tender, juicy base for our bold marinade. The maple syrup lends sweetness and depth, while bourbon brings a rich, mellow flavor that pairs perfectly with the smokiness we’ll develop on the grill. We use apple cider vinegar to add acidity, balancing the sweetness and tenderizing the meat. Soy sauce adds savory umami notes, complemented by the brown sugar, which caramelizes beautifully. The smoked paprika is essential for that smoky flair. Garlic powder and onion powder give a foundational depth, while cayenne pepper adds just the right amount of heat. Finally, a touch of salt and pepper to taste brings everything together.
Pair these ribs with classic barbecue sides like coleslaw, cornbread, or potato salad. For a fresh twist, serve them alongside a bright, citrusy salad or grilled vegetables. A cold beer or a glass of iced tea complements the flavors perfectly.
Start by preheating your grill to medium heat. This gives you time to prepare the marinade while ensuring the grill is ready when you need it. In a mixing bowl, combine the maple syrup, bourbon, apple cider vinegar, soy sauce, brown sugar, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper. Mix until everything is well combined and the sugar has dissolved.
Place your pork ribs in a large dish or a resealable plastic bag. Pour the marinade over them, ensuring they're completely coated. For best results, marinate the ribs in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours; overnight is even better if you have the time. This allows all those wonderful flavors to really penetrate the meat.
Once marinated, remove the ribs from the fridge and let them sit at room temperature for about 20 minutes. This helps them cook more evenly. Place the ribs on the grill, bone side down. Grill them for about 1.5 to 2 hours, turning occasionally. Be sure to baste the ribs with the leftover marinade every 20 minutes or so. This is where the magic happens — you'll see the ribs develop a gorgeous caramelized crust as they cook.
When the ribs are tender and perfectly caramelized, remove them from the grill and let them rest for about 10 minutes. This rest time allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring every bite is juicy and flavorful. Slice between the bones and serve.
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