Apple Cider and Maple Bourbon Sugar Smoked Summer BBQ Ribs

Author: Scott Stokes

Prep Time: Estimated 20 minutes
Cook Time: Estimated 4 hours
Total Time: Estimated 4 hours 20 minutes
Yield: Serves 4-6
Cuisine: BBQ
Author: Scott Stokes

Ingredients:

• 3 racks of ribs
• 2 cups apple cider
• 1 cup maple bourbon sugar
• 2 tablespoons BBQ rub
• 1/2 cup BBQ sauce

Instructions:

1. Preheat your smoker to 225°F (107°C).
2. In a bowl, combine apple cider and maple bourbon sugar to create a marinade.
3. Place the ribs in a large dish and pour the marinade over them. Ensure the ribs are well coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight.
4. Remove the ribs from the marinade and pat them dry. Apply the BBQ rub evenly on both sides of the ribs.
5. Place the ribs on the smoker grates and smoke for 2 hours, maintaining a steady temperature.
6. After the initial smoking period, wrap the ribs tightly in aluminum foil and continue smoking for an additional 2 hours until the meat is tender and starts to pull away from the bone.
7. Remove the ribs from the smoker and carefully open the foil. Brush the ribs with BBQ sauce and return them to the smoker for another 30 minutes, allowing the sauce to caramelize.
8. Once the ribs are done, remove them from the smoker and let them rest for a few minutes before serving.
9. Slice the ribs between the bones and serve with extra BBQ sauce on the side.

Note: These Apple Cider and Maple Bourbon Sugar Smoked Summer BBQ Ribs pair well with cornbread and coleslaw for a complete barbecue meal.

Dry Rubs

For a tangy and slightly sweet dry rub, you can experiment with adding ingredients like brown sugar, mustard powder, and dried citrus zest. These flavors complement various meats, from chicken to pork to beef, and create a delicious caramelized crust when cooked over high heat.

Wet Rubs

For a tangy and herbaceous wet rub, combine ingredients like white wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, fresh herbs like rosemary, thyme, and parsley, minced garlic, and a drizzle of honey. This vibrant wet rub is perfect for lamb chops or grilled vegetables, imparting a zesty and aromatic taste.

Spice Blends

Jerk seasoning is a fiery and flavorful blend originating from Jamaica. It combines spices like allspice, thyme, cinnamon, nutmeg, and Scotch bonnet peppers. Jerk seasoning adds a bold and spicy kick to grilled meats, chicken wings, or even roasted vegetables for a taste of the Caribbean.

Infused Oils

To create a versatile and aromatic infused oil, combine dried thyme, oregano, and crushed red pepper flakes in a bottle with olive oil. Let the flavors infuse for a few days before using. This herb-infused oil adds a Mediterranean touch to salads, roasted vegetables, or even homemade pizza.

Edible Flowers

One example of using edible flowers is to make a floral-infused syrup. Combine sugar, water, and edible flowers like lavender or rose petals in a saucepan, heat gently until the sugar dissolves, then let it cool and strain out the flowers. The resulting syrup can be used to flavor beverages, desserts, or even drizzled over pancakes or waffles for a touch of floral sweetness.

Ingredient Pairings

Olive oil and balsamic vinegar create a harmonious balance of flavors. The fruity and robust taste of olive oil pairs well with the tangy and slightly sweet notes of balsamic vinegar, making it a versatile dressing or dip.

Food Facts

Cashews grow outside of a fruit called a cashew apple. The 'nut' we eat is actually the seed found at the bottom of the cashew apple.

Cooking Tips

When working with sticky ingredients like honey or syrup, lightly coat the measuring spoon or cup with cooking spray or oil. This allows for easy release and less mess.

Ingredient Spotlight

Pumpkin is a fall favorite known for its sweet, earthy flavor and vibrant orange color. It can be used in both sweet and savory dishes, such as pies, soups, roasted vegetables, and desserts.

Foraging Facts

Foraging can be a great way to connect with nature and engage in mindful activities. Take the time to observe your surroundings, appreciate the beauty of the natural world, and learn about the ecosystems in which these wild foods thrive.

Baking Hacks

When making whipped cream, chill the bowl and beaters in the refrigerator beforehand. Cold utensils help the cream whip faster and hold its shape better.

Culinary Terms

Blanching is a cooking technique that involves briefly immersing food in boiling water and then transferring it to an ice bath to halt the cooking process. It is commonly used to preserve the color, texture, and flavor of vegetables.