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

To create an earthy and aromatic dry rub, try using a combination of dried herbs such as thyme, rosemary, and sage. These herbs pair well with roasted meats and infuse them with a savory, fragrant essence. You can also experiment with adding ground coffee or cocoa powder for a rich and complex flavor profile.

Wet Rubs

To create a versatile and all-purpose wet rub, combine ingredients like olive oil, Dijon mustard, balsamic vinegar, minced garlic, dried herbs, and a touch of honey. This balanced and savory wet rub works well on a variety of meats, from steak to chicken to pork chops.

Spice Blends

Old Bay seasoning is a classic blend often associated with seafood boils and dishes from the Chesapeake Bay region. It combines spices like celery salt, paprika, black pepper, cayenne pepper, and other secret ingredients. Old Bay seasoning adds a bold and savory flavor to shrimp, crab, or even roasted potatoes.

Infused Oils

To ensure the quality and safety of your infused oils, use clean and sterilized jars or bottles for storage. Store the oils in a cool, dark place away from direct sunlight to maintain their freshness and prevent them from turning rancid. Infused oils should be used within a few months for the best flavor.

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

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

Chocolate comes from the seeds of the cacao tree. The scientific name for the cacao tree is Theobroma cacao, which translates to 'food of the gods'.

Cooking Tips

When using fresh herbs in a dish, add them towards the end of the cooking process to preserve their fresh flavors. This ensures the herbs maintain their aroma and brightness.

Ingredient Spotlight

Mint is a refreshing herb with a cool, menthol flavor. It adds a burst of freshness to both sweet and savory dishes. Mint is commonly used in beverages, salads, desserts, and Middle Eastern cuisine.

Foraging Facts

Wild edibles can be found in urban areas as well. For example, common urban forageable plants include dandelions, plantains, purslane, and chickweed. Be mindful of potential contaminants like pollution or pesticide use in urban environments.

Baking Hacks

If you run out of baking powder while baking, you can make a substitute by mixing 1 part baking soda with 2 parts cream of tartar. This combination provides the leavening effect needed in many recipes.

Culinary Terms

Mise en place is a French term that translates to 'putting in place.' It refers to the practice of preparing and organizing all ingredients and tools before starting the cooking process. This helps streamline cooking and ensures everything is readily accessible.