Glazed Kentucky Country Ribs on the Arteflame Grill

Introduction

These Glazed Kentucky Country Ribs are coated in a rich brown sugar and bourbon glaze, then grilled to perfection on the Arteflame. The combination of high-heat searing and slow finishing on the flat-top griddle locks in all the juices while giving the ribs a deep, flavorful crust. Cooked entirely on the Arteflame grill, these ribs turn out smoky, sweet, and absolutely delicious.

Ingredients

• 3 lbs country-style pork ribs
• 2 tbsp butter
• 1 tbsp smoked paprika
• 1 tbsp garlic powder
• 1 tbsp onion powder
• 1 tsp ground mustard
• 1 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 1/2 cup brown sugar
• 1/4 cup bourbon
• 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
• 1/4 cup ketchup
• 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
• 1 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)

Instructions

Step 1: Fire up the Arteflame grill

1. Pour some vegetable oil on three paper napkins and place them in the center of the grill.
2. Stack firewood over the soaked napkins.
3. Light the paper napkins and wait about 20 minutes until the cooktop reaches desired temperature.

Step 2: Prepare the glaze

1. On the flat cooktop, melt the butter.
2. Add brown sugar, bourbon, apple cider vinegar, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, and red pepper flakes.
3. Stir continuously until the glaze thickens, then remove from heat.

Step 3: Season the ribs

1. In a bowl, mix smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, ground mustard, salt, and black pepper.
2. Rub the seasoning mixture all over the ribs.

Step 4: Sear the ribs

1. Place the ribs on the center grill grate to sear at 1,000°F.
2. Sear each side for about 2 minutes until a nice crust forms.

Step 5: Finish cooking on the griddle

1. Move the seared ribs onto the flat cooktop.
2. Cook slowly, flipping occasionally, until the internal temperature reaches 145°F.

Step 6: Glaze the ribs

1. In the last 5 minutes of cooking, brush the ribs generously with the bourbon glaze.
2. Let the glaze caramelize slightly without burning.

Step 7: Rest and serve

1. Remove the ribs when they reach 130°F (they will continue cooking off the grill).
2. Let them rest for 10 minutes before slicing.
3. Serve with extra glaze on the side.

Tips

• Removing the ribs at 130°F ensures they reach perfect doneness as they rest.
• Use the hotter zones of the Arteflame griddle to finish cooking quickly or move the ribs to the cooler edge for slower cooking.
• For deeper flavor, let the ribs marinate in the spice rub for a few hours before grilling.
• Apply the glaze in layers for a thicker, more caramelized coating.
• If the glaze thickens too much, add a splash of bourbon to loosen it.

Variations

• Honey Maple Glaze: Replace brown sugar with honey and add a tablespoon of maple syrup.
• Spicy Chipotle: Add 1 tbsp chipotle powder and 2 tbsp hot sauce to the glaze.
• Teriyaki Bourbon: Swap ketchup for soy sauce and add grated ginger for an Asian twist.
• Smoky Coffee Rub: Mix in 1 tbsp finely ground coffee into the dry rub for a smoky depth.
• Garlic Butter Bourbon: Infuse the glaze with an extra tablespoon of roasted garlic.

Best Pairings

• Side Dish: Grilled corn on the cob with butter and herbs.
• Drink: A glass of bourbon or a smoky barrel-aged beer.
• Dessert: Grilled peaches with vanilla ice cream.

Conclusion

These Glazed Kentucky Country Ribs are the ultimate showcase of how Arteflame grilling brings out bold flavors with a perfect sear. Cooked entirely on the grill with no need for an oven or pans, they embody the ease and flavor of outdoor cooking. Try one of the variations for a unique twist and enjoy fall-apart tender, mouthwatering ribs.