Alabama Maple-Glazed BBQ Pork Ribs on the Arteflame

Ingredients

• 2 racks of pork ribs
• 2 tbsp butter
• 1 tbsp smoked paprika
• 1 tbsp garlic powder
• 1 tbsp onion powder
• 1 tsp cayenne pepper
• 1 tsp salt
• 1 tsp black pepper
• 1 cup maple syrup
• 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
• 2 tbsp Dijon mustard
• 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
• 1/2 cup ketchup

Instructions

Step 1: Fire up the Arteflame grill

1. Pour some vegetable oil on three paper napkins and place them inside the grill.
2. Stack firewood over the soaked napkins and light the paper.
3. Wait about 20 minutes until the grill is hot and ready for cooking.

Step 2: Prepare the ribs

1. Remove the membrane from the back of the ribs.
2. Mix smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne, salt, and black pepper.
3. Rub the spice mix evenly all over the ribs.

Step 3: Sear the ribs

1. Place ribs directly onto the center grill grate to sear at 1,000°F for 2-3 minutes per side.
2. Once seared, move the ribs to the outer flat cooktop to continue cooking.

Step 4: Make the maple glaze

1. On the flat cooktop, melt butter.
2. Mix in maple syrup, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, and ketchup.
3. Simmer slightly until thickened.

Step 5: Glaze and cook the ribs

1. Baste the ribs generously with the maple glaze.
2. Cook for about 1.5-2 hours, flipping and glazing every 20 minutes, until the internal temperature reaches 195°F.
3. Remove the ribs when they reach 180°F as they will continue cooking off the grill.

Step 6: Rest and serve

1. Let the ribs rest for 10 minutes before slicing.
2. Serve with extra glaze.

Tips

• Always remove the ribs 15°F before they reach their final temp to prevent overcooking.
• Use lump hardwood for the best smoke flavor with your Arteflame grill.
• Basting frequently ensures a caramelized glaze that seals in moisture.

Variations

• Spicy Alabama Ribs: Add extra cayenne and a drizzle of hot honey for a fiery kick.
• Bourbon-Glazed Ribs: Replace maple syrup with bourbon and brown sugar for a deep, rich flavor.
• Smoky Chipotle Ribs: Mix in chipotle powder and a splash of adobo sauce for a bold smoky taste.
• Pineapple Ginger Ribs: Swap maple syrup with pineapple juice and add fresh grated ginger for a tangy twist.
• Alabama White Sauce Ribs: Finish the ribs with a classic Alabama white BBQ sauce made from mayonnaise, vinegar, and horseradish.

Conclusion

Grilling on the Arteflame brings out the best in these Alabama-style maple-glazed BBQ ribs. The unique cooking method ensures a flavorful, juicy bite every time. Whether you’re hosting a summer cookout or just craving top-notch BBQ, these ribs will impress every guest at your table.

Best Pairings

• Creamy coleslaw for a cool contrast.
• Grilled cornbread for a smoky crunch.
• Baked beans cooked directly on the Arteflame flat top.
• Grilled peaches with cinnamon for a sweet side.
• A refreshing glass of Southern sweet tea or a cold craft beer.