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

Don't limit dry rubs to just meats! They can also be used to season other grilled or roasted foods, such as vegetables or tofu. Simply adjust the amount of spices and seasonings based on the quantity and type of food you're cooking.

Wet Rubs

If you're looking for a tropical twist, try a wet rub featuring ingredients like pineapple juice, coconut milk, lime zest, ginger, and a touch of brown sugar. This sweet and tangy wet rub is excellent for chicken or shrimp, adding a burst of island-inspired flavors.

Spice Blends

For a taste of the Mediterranean, try using herbes de Provence. This classic French blend typically includes herbs like thyme, rosemary, marjoram, savory, and oregano. It adds a fragrant and earthy flavor to roasted meats, grilled vegetables, or even homemade bread.

Infused Oils

One popular infused oil is rosemary-infused olive oil. To make it, simply combine fresh rosemary sprigs with olive oil in a sterilized jar and let it sit for a few weeks. This aromatic oil is perfect for drizzling over roasted potatoes, grilled meats, or even homemade focaccia bread.

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

Rosemary and lamb are a classic pairing that creates a delicious and aromatic combination. The woody and herbal flavor of rosemary complements the tender and savory taste of lamb, making it a popular choice for roasts and stews.

Food Facts

The world's oldest known vegetable is the pea. Archaeologists have discovered pea remains in Stone Age settlements dating back over 8,000 years.

Cooking Tips

To easily peel boiled eggs, give them a quick plunge into an ice bath after cooking. The cold shock helps loosen the eggshell and makes peeling a breeze.

Ingredient Spotlight

Pomegranate is a vibrant fruit with a sweet and tart flavor. It is filled with juicy arils (seeds) that add a burst of freshness to dishes. Pomegranate can be used in salads, desserts, sauces, and as a garnish.

Foraging Facts

Wild mushrooms come in a variety of shapes and sizes, and it's essential to learn to identify the edible ones from the poisonous ones before foraging. Joining a local mycological society or going on guided forays can help you safely explore the world of wild mushrooms.

Baking Hacks

When measuring sticky ingredients like honey or molasses, lightly coat the measuring cup or spoon with cooking spray or oil. This allows the sticky substance to slide off easily.

Culinary Terms

Fermentation is a natural process where microorganisms, such as yeast or bacteria, convert sugars in food into alcohol, acids, or gases. It is commonly used in the production of bread, yogurt, and fermented beverages.