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

When using a wet rub, it's best to let the meat marinate for a few hours or overnight in the refrigerator. This allows the flavors to penetrate the meat and tenderize it for a juicy and flavorful result.

Spice Blends

One popular spice blend is Cajun seasoning, which typically includes a mix of paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, oregano, thyme, and black pepper. This versatile blend adds a zesty and slightly spicy kick to seafood, poultry, or even roasted vegetables.

Infused Oils

For a spicy kick, create chili-infused oil by combining dried chili peppers with olive oil. Allow the mixture to sit for a week or longer to infuse the oil with heat. This oil can be used to add a fiery touch to stir-fries, marinades, or even drizzled over pizza or pasta dishes.

Edible Flowers

Edible flowers are blossoms that can be consumed as part of a dish or used as garnishes. They add visual appeal and delicate flavors to both sweet and savory dishes. Some common edible flowers include pansies, marigolds, nasturtiums, violets, lavender, and roses. Edible flowers can be used in salads, desserts, cocktails, or as a decorative element on cakes or pastries. It's important to note that not all flowers are edible, so it's essential to use flowers specifically labeled as edible.

Ingredient Pairings

Tomatoes and mozzarella are a classic pairing in Caprese salads. The juicy and slightly acidic flavor of tomatoes pairs beautifully with the creamy and mild taste of mozzarella, creating a fresh and flavorful combination.

Food Facts

Pineapples are not actually a single fruit, but a group of berries fused together. Each 'eye' on a pineapple is a separate flower with its own sweet juice.

Cooking Tips

When making fluffy scrambled eggs, whisk them vigorously before cooking and incorporate a small amount of milk or cream. This helps to create lighter and fluffier eggs.

Ingredient Spotlight

Cilantro, also known as coriander leaves, is an herb with a bright and citrusy flavor. It is commonly used in Mexican, Indian, and Southeast Asian cuisines. Cilantro adds freshness to dishes like salsas, curries, and salads.

Foraging Facts

Wild berries, such as blackberries, raspberries, and blueberries, are abundant in many regions and can be found in forests, fields, or even your own backyard. Before foraging, make sure to identify the edible berries and be aware of any potential hazards, such as thorny bushes or poisonous look-alikes.

Baking Hacks

When greasing a baking pan, use a pastry brush or paper towel to evenly distribute the fat. This ensures that the entire surface is coated and helps with easy release after baking.

Culinary Terms

Zesting is the process of grating the outer colored part of citrus fruits, such as lemons or oranges. The zest contains aromatic oils that add brightness and flavor to dishes.