Get ready to wow your taste buds with these Sweet and Spicy Coffee Rubbed Baby Back Ribs. With a unique blend of coffee and spices, these ribs are perfect for your next BBQ or any time you want to impress family and friends with something special.
Baby back ribs are tender and cook relatively quickly, making them ideal for this recipe. The ground coffee adds depth and a slight bitterness that balances the sweetness. Brown sugar caramelizes beautifully on the grill, enhancing the ribs' natural flavors. Smoked paprika and chili powder provide a smokiness and a gentle heat. Garlic powder and onion powder add a savory base. Salt and black pepper enhance flavors, while cayenne pepper adds a kick of heat. BBQ sauce brings a tangy sweetness, and apple cider vinegar helps tenderize the meat and adds moisture during grilling.
These ribs pair excellently with a fresh coleslaw or grilled corn on the cob. For a complete meal, consider serving with a crisp green salad and a side of baked beans. A cold beer or a refreshing iced tea would complement these ribs perfectly.
Start by preheating your grill to medium-high heat. You want it hot enough to cook the ribs evenly but not so hot that they burn. While the grill is heating, mix up your rub. In a small bowl, combine the ground coffee, brown sugar, smoked paprika, chili powder, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper. Give it a good stir so everything's evenly distributed.
Next, take your baby back ribs and pat them dry with paper towels. This helps the rub adhere better. Generously apply the coffee rub on both sides of the ribs, pressing it into the meat as you go. You want a nice, even coating.
Once your grill is ready, place the ribs bone side down. Close the lid and let them cook for about an hour. Keep an eye on the temperature to ensure it stays consistent. Every so often, baste the ribs with apple cider vinegar. This helps keep them moist and adds a bit of tanginess.
After an hour, brush the ribs with your favorite BBQ sauce. Let them cook for another 15 minutes. This allows the sauce to caramelize nicely. Once done, remove the ribs from the grill and let them rest for about 10 minutes. This rest time helps the juices redistribute, making for tender, juicy ribs. Finally, slice them up and serve!
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