Bourbon Cider Glazed Beef Ribs

Ribs with Cider-Bourbon Glaze Recipe

Name: Ribs with Cider-Bourbon Glaze
Cook Time: 45 minutes
Prep Time: 2 hours
Total Time: 2 hours 45 minutes
Description: Make and share this Ribs with Cider-Bourbon Glaze recipe from lovewithrecipes.com.
Recipe Category: Fruit
Keywords: Meat, Kid Friendly, Potluck, Weeknight, Broil/Grill, Oven, < 4 Hours

Ingredients

1. 4 beef ribs
   • Choose meaty beef ribs that are well-marbled for the best flavor and tenderness.
2. Apple cider
   • The sweet and tangy flavor of apple cider pairs beautifully with the rich taste of beef ribs, adding a unique depth to the glaze.
3. 1 cup Bourbon
   • Bourbon brings a warm, slightly sweet, and smoky flavor that complements the cider and enhances the overall taste of the ribs.
4. 1/2 teaspoon garlic, minced
   • Fresh garlic adds a sharp, aromatic punch to the glaze, balancing the sweetness of the cider and bourbon.
5. 1 yellow onion, finely chopped
   • Onion provides a savory backbone to the glaze, lending its sweet and mellow flavors after being cooked.
6. 1/2 cup butter, melted
   • Butter adds richness and helps to meld the flavors of the glaze, making it smooth and velvety.

Nutritional Information (per serving)

• Calories: 3240.1
• Fat Content: 272.2g
• Saturated Fat Content: 113.5g
• Cholesterol Content: 668.5mg
• Sodium Content: 522.7mg
• Carbohydrate Content: 1g
• Fiber Content: 0.1g
• Sugar Content: 0.2g
• Protein Content: 145.9g

Instructions

1. Preparation of the Ribs:

   • Cutting the Ribs: Begin by cutting the beef ribs into individual pieces. This allows them to cook more evenly and absorb more of the glaze’s flavor.

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   • Simmering: Place the ribs in a large pot or Dutch oven. Fill the pot with enough water to cover the ribs completely. Simmer the ribs over medium heat for two hours. During this time, keep an eye on the water level and add more as needed to keep the ribs submerged.

2. Making the Glaze:
   • Mixing Ingredients: In a small bowl, combine the apple cider, bourbon, minced garlic, finely chopped yellow onion, and melted butter. Whisk these ingredients together until well-blended.
3. Prepping for the Oven:

   • Preheating the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit.

   • Draining the Ribs: Once the ribs have finished simmering, remove them from the pot and let them drain well. This step ensures that the ribs are not waterlogged and can absorb the glaze more effectively.

4. Baking the Ribs:

   • Glazing the Ribs: Brush the ribs generously with the cider-bourbon glaze, making sure each rib is well-coated.

   • Roasting: Place the glazed ribs in a roasting pan. Cover the pan with aluminum foil to retain moisture and prevent the ribs from drying out during baking. Bake in the preheated oven for 30 to 45 minutes. The foil helps to create a steamy environment, ensuring the ribs become tender.

   • Basting: Occasionally baste the ribs with the pan drippings. This step infuses the ribs with more flavor and helps to achieve a beautiful, caramelized finish. The ribs are done when they are fork-tender and well-browned.

5. Serving:

   • Presentation: Remove the ribs from the oven and let them rest for a few minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, making the ribs even more flavorful and succulent.

   • Portioning: This recipe serves 2 hungry folks. Serve the ribs hot, accompanied by your favorite sides such as mashed potatoes, coleslaw, or grilled vegetables.

6. Enjoy:
   • Final Touch: Enjoy your delicious Ribs with Cider-Bourbon Glaze, perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. The combination of sweet, tangy, and smoky flavors will make this dish a favorite in your household.

Tips for the Perfect Ribs with Cider-Bourbon Glaze

1. Choosing the Ribs:

   • Opt for beef ribs that have a good amount of meat on them and are well-marbled. This marbling helps keep the ribs moist and flavorful during cooking.

2. Simmering for Tenderness:

   • Simmering the ribs before baking them is crucial for achieving tenderness. This slow-cooking method breaks down the tough connective tissues in the meat.

3. Glaze Variations:

   • Feel free to experiment with the glaze. Adding a tablespoon of honey or brown sugar can enhance the sweetness. A dash of hot sauce or cayenne pepper can add a spicy kick.

4. Grill Option:

   • If you prefer grilling over baking, you can finish the ribs on a grill after simmering. Preheat the grill to medium-high heat and cook the ribs for 10-15 minutes, basting with the glaze and turning occasionally until they are caramelized and heated through.

5. Make-Ahead:

   • You can prepare the ribs ahead of time by simmering them and storing them in the refrigerator. When ready to eat, glaze and bake them as directed. This makes it easier to enjoy a delicious meal with less last-minute preparation.

6. Side Dishes:

   • Complement the rich flavors of the ribs with lighter side dishes. A crisp green salad, roasted vegetables, or a tangy coleslaw can provide a refreshing contrast.

7. Leftovers:

   • If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave, adding a little extra glaze to keep them moist.

8. Pairing with Beverages:

   • Serve these ribs with a cold, crisp apple cider or a glass of bourbon to complement the flavors in the glaze. A robust red wine, like a Zinfandel or a Shiraz, would also pair well with the rich, savory taste of the ribs.

Health Considerations

While this dish is undeniably delicious, it is also quite rich and indulgent. Here are a few tips for those who might be looking to lighten it up a bit:

1. Reducing Fat Content:

   • Trim any visible fat from the ribs before cooking. This can help reduce the overall fat content of the dish.

2. Healthier Glaze:

   • Substitute half of the butter with a healthier fat like olive oil. This can help lower the saturated fat content without compromising too much on flavor.

3. Portion Control:

   • Consider serving smaller portions of the ribs along with larger servings of vegetables or salad to create a more balanced meal.

4. Nutritional Information Awareness:

   • Be mindful of the nutritional content if you are watching your calorie, fat, or cholesterol intake. Enjoy this dish as an occasional treat rather than a regular part of your diet.

Conclusion

This Ribs with Cider-Bourbon Glaze recipe is a mouthwatering dish that brings together the rich, hearty flavor of beef ribs with a sweet and tangy glaze that is both unique and delightful. Perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner or a festive potluck, these ribs are sure to impress. The process of simmering the ribs ensures they are tender and succulent, while the cider-bourbon glaze adds a delicious complexity to the flavor profile.

Remember, cooking is all about experimenting and making a recipe your own. Feel free to tweak the ingredients and methods to suit your taste and preferences. Enjoy the process of creating this dish and sharing it with your loved ones. Happy cooking!