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

Dry rubs are a versatile way to enhance the flavor of your grilled or smoked meats. They can be customized with a variety of spices to suit your taste preferences. Some popular additions to dry rubs include cayenne pepper for heat, smoked paprika for a smoky flavor, and dried herbs like thyme or rosemary for an aromatic touch.

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

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

Infused oils can also be created with citrus zest, such as lemon or orange. Gently warm olive oil and add the zest, allowing it to infuse for a few hours. This citrus-infused oil adds a bright and tangy flavor to salads, seafood, or even desserts like lemon cakes or fruit salads.

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

Mint and chocolate are a classic pairing that creates a refreshing and indulgent combination. The cool and minty flavor of mint complements the rich and sweet taste of chocolate, making it a popular choice for desserts.

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

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

Parsley is a versatile herb with a fresh, grassy flavor. It is commonly used as a garnish and to add a pop of color to dishes. Parsley can also be used in salads, sauces, marinades, and as a flavor enhancer.

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

To prevent a cake from sticking to the pan, line the bottom with parchment paper and lightly grease the sides. This makes it easier to remove the cake after baking.

Culinary Terms

Dredging is the process of lightly coating food items with flour or breadcrumbs before cooking. It adds a crispy crust and helps retain moisture during cooking.