Ingredients

• 2 racks of baby back ribs
• 2 tbsp kosher salt
• 1 tbsp black pepper
• 1 tbsp smoked paprika
• 1 tbsp garlic powder
• 1 tbsp onion powder
• 1 cup Kentucky bourbon
• 1.5 cups ketchup
• 1/2 cup apple cider vinegar
• 1/3 cup brown sugar
• 2 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
• 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
• 1 tsp cayenne pepper
• 4 tbsp butter

Instructions

Step 1: Fire up the Arteflame grill

1. Pour some vegetable oil on three paper napkins.
2. Place the oiled napkins in the grill and stack firewood over them.
3. Light the napkins and allow the firewood to catch.
4. Let the grill heat for about 20 minutes until the cooktop is hot.

Step 2: Prepare the ribs

1. Mix salt, black pepper, smoked paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder.
2. Generously season both sides of the ribs with the spice mix.
3. Let the ribs rest at room temperature while the grill heats.

Step 3: Make the Kentucky bourbon BBQ sauce

1. On the Arteflame flat cooktop, melt 2 tbsp butter.
2. Add bourbon and let it cook for 2 minutes to burn off alcohol.
3. Stir in ketchup, apple cider vinegar, brown sugar, Worcestershire sauce, Dijon mustard, and cayenne pepper.
4. Let the sauce simmer until thickened.

Step 4: Sear the ribs

1. Place the ribs meat-side down on the center grill grate.
2. Sear for 2-3 minutes per side to create a flavorful crust.

Step 5: Slow-grill on the flat cooktop

1. Move the ribs to the outer flat cooktop away from direct fire.
2. Cook the ribs slowly, basting with bourbon BBQ sauce every 15 minutes.
3. Grill for 1.5-2 hours until the internal temperature reaches 195°F.

Step 6: Rest and serve

1. Remove ribs from the grill when they reach 180°F.
2. Let them rest for 10 minutes so they reach 195°F internally.
3. Slice and serve with extra sauce.

Tips

• Use a meat thermometer to check doneness.
• For extra tenderness, wrap the ribs in foil after searing and continue grilling.
• Letting the meat rest ensures juicier ribs.
• Cooking on the Arteflame cooktop prevents burning while delivering a perfect sear.
• Always baste the ribs with sauce in the last hour to enhance flavor.

Variations

• Spicy Bourbon Ribs: Add an extra teaspoon of cayenne pepper and a splash of hot sauce for a fiery kick.
• Honey Bourbon Ribs: Mix 1/4 cup honey into the BBQ sauce for a sweeter glaze.
• Maple Bourbon Ribs: Replace brown sugar with maple syrup for a rich, smoky sweetness.
• Smoky Coffee Bourbon Ribs: Add 1 tbsp finely ground espresso to the spice rub for deep flavors.
• Asian Bourbon Ribs: Replace Worcestershire sauce with soy sauce and add 1 tbsp grated ginger.

Conclusion

Grilling Kentucky Bourbon BBQ Ribs on the Arteflame grill delivers unmatched tenderness and smoky bourbon-infused flavor. Searing at 1,000°F first locks in all the juices while slow-grilling on the outer cooktop ensures they stay tender. Try different variations, and enjoy the perfect blend of smokiness, spice, and sweetness.

Best Pairings

• Grilled corn on the cob with butter
• Sweet potato fries
• Coleslaw for a crunchy contrast
• A glass of smooth Kentucky bourbon
• Grilled cornbread with honey drizzle