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SMOKY GRILLED RIBS WITH BOURBON GLAZE

Sana Umer
Smoky Grilled Ribs with Bourbon Glaze are tender, flavorful, and coated in a sweet, rich bourbon sauce. Perfect for summer grilling or weekend cookouts, these ribs offer a delicious smoky taste with a sticky, caramelized finish.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 1 hour 15 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 30 minutes
Course BBQ
Cuisine American
Servings 4 servings
Calories 520 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 2 racks baby back ribs about 3 pounds
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 2 teaspoons smoked paprika
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper

For the Bourbon Glaze:

  • ½ cup bourbon
  • ½ cup brown sugar
  • ¼ cup ketchup
  • 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
  • 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • ½ teaspoon chili powder
  • 1 clove garlic minced

Instructions
 

Prepare Ribs:

  • Remove the membrane from the back of the ribs. Pat dry and rub olive oil all over.

Season:

  • In a small bowl, mix smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Rub the spice mix evenly over both sides of the ribs.

Preheat Grill:

  • Set grill for indirect heat at medium-low (about 275°F / 135°C).

Grill Ribs:

  • Place ribs bone-side down on the cooler side of the grill. Cover and cook for about 1 hour, turning occasionally.

Make Bourbon Glaze:

  • In a small saucepan, combine bourbon, brown sugar, ketchup, apple cider vinegar, Worcestershire sauce, smoked paprika, chili powder, and garlic. Simmer over medium heat until thickened, about 10 minutes.

Glaze Ribs:

  • Brush ribs with bourbon glaze and grill for an additional 10–15 minutes, turning and basting frequently, until caramelized and sticky.

Rest & Serve:

  • Remove ribs from grill and let rest for 5 minutes before slicing. Serve with extra glaze.

Notes

  • Membrane Removal: Removing the membrane ensures tender ribs. Use a paper towel to grip and pull it off.
  • Oven Method: Cook ribs in a 275°F (135°C) oven for 2.5–3 hours, then broil with glaze.
  • Bourbon Substitute: Use apple juice or cola for a non-alcoholic glaze.
  • Make Ahead: Prepare spice rub and glaze a day ahead for enhanced flavor.
  • Serving Suggestion: Pair with grilled corn, coleslaw, or baked beans.
Keyword BBQ ribs recipe, bourbon barbecue sauce, bourbon glaze ribs, smoky grilled ribs