German Cider-Glazed Pork Ribs on the Arteflame Grill

Ingredients

• 2 racks of pork ribs
• 1 cup German apple cider
• 1/2 cup apple cider vinegar
• 1/4 cup brown sugar
• 2 tbsp Dijon mustard
• 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
• 1 tbsp smoked paprika
• 1 tbsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp black pepper
• 1 tsp salt
• 2 tbsp butter (for grilling)

Instructions

Step 1: Fire up the Arteflame grill

1. Pour some vegetable oil on three paper napkins and place them in the grill.
2. Stack firewood over the soaked napkins.
3. Light the napkins and wait about 20 minutes for the grill to heat up.

Step 2: Prepare the cider glaze

1. In a small bowl, whisk together the German apple cider, apple cider vinegar, brown sugar, Dijon mustard, and Worcestershire sauce.

Step 3: Season and sear the ribs

1. Rub the ribs with smoked paprika, garlic powder, black pepper, and salt.
2. Place the ribs on the center grill grate and sear for 3-4 minutes per side to lock in juices.

Step 4: Slow grill on the flat cooktop

1. Move the ribs onto the flat cooktop griddle, positioning them near the outer edge for a lower heat zone.
2. Baste the ribs with the cider glaze every 10-15 minutes.
3. Grill for approximately 1.5-2 hours, turning occasionally.

Step 5: Rest the ribs

1. Remove the ribs from the grill when they reach an internal temperature of 195°F.
2. Let them rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.

Tips

• Always remove the meat from the grill 15°F before the desired temperature as it will continue to cook after removal.
• Use the center grill grate for a perfect steakhouse-quality sear.
• Apply butter to the flat top cooktop for extra rich flavor.
• Grill some vegetables on the flat cooktop while the ribs are cooking for a complete meal.

Variations

• Spicy Honey Ribs: Add 2 tbsp honey and 1 tsp cayenne pepper to the glaze for a sweet-spicy kick.
• Maple Bourbon Ribs: Replace the cider with maple syrup and add 2 tbsp bourbon for a rich, deep flavor.
• Garlic Herb Ribs: Add 1 tbsp garlic paste and 1 tbsp fresh thyme to the rub for a more herbal taste.
• Asian-Inspired Ribs: Use soy sauce instead of Worcestershire sauce and add 1 tsp ginger for an Asian twist.
• Smoky BBQ Ribs: Mix in 1/2 cup BBQ sauce with the glaze for a classic smoky taste.

Conclusion

These German cider-glazed pork ribs grilled on the Arteflame deliver a perfect balance of tangy, sweet, and smoky flavors. Searing at extreme heat locks in moisture, while slow-grilling on the flat top ensures tenderness. Try different variations to create your favorite version of this dish!

Best pairings

• German potato salad
• Grilled sauerkraut and bratwurst
• Soft pretzels with mustard
• Apple strudel for dessert
• A cold German pilsner or hefeweizen