Iowa Maple-Glazed Pork Ribs on the Arteflame Grill

Introduction

Get ready for the most mouthwatering Iowa-style maple-glazed pork ribs. This recipe uses the Arteflame grill to lock in flavors with a high-heat sear and slow grill the ribs to perfection. The caramelized maple glaze brings out the best in these juicy, fall-off-the-bone ribs that are sure to impress at any barbecue.

Ingredients

• 2 racks of baby back ribs
• 1/2 cup pure maple syrup
• 2 tbsp Dijon mustard
• 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar
• 2 tsp smoked paprika
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp onion powder
• 1 tsp kosher salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 2 tbsp butter

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Arteflame Grill

• Pour some vegetable oil on three paper napkins.
• Place the napkins into the grill and stack firewood on top.
• Light the napkins and let the fire burn to heat up the grill.
• Allow about 20 minutes for the grill to reach cooking temperature.

Step 2: Prepare the Ribs

• Remove the membrane from the back of the ribs.
• Rub the ribs on all sides with salt, pepper, smoked paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder.

Step 3: Sear the Ribs

• Once the Arteflame grill is hot, place the racks meat-side down onto the center grill grate.
• Sear for 2-3 minutes per side to lock in juices.

Step 4: Slow Grill the Ribs

• Move the ribs to the outer flat cooktop, closer to the edge for lower heat.
• Cook for about 1.5 to 2 hours, flipping occasionally.

Step 5: Apply the Maple Glaze

• In a small dish, mix maple syrup, mustard, and apple cider vinegar.
• Brush generously onto the ribs every 15 minutes during the last 45 minutes of grilling.

Step 6: Rest and Serve

• Remove ribs when they reach 195°F, as they will continue cooking after removal.
• Let rest for 10 minutes before slicing.
• Serve and enjoy!

Tips

• Use hardwood firewood for the best smoky flavor.
• Cook ribs closer to the outer cooktop edge for lower heat and even cooking.
• Apply the maple glaze towards the end to prevent burning.
• Let the meat rest after grilling to retain juices.

Variations

• Spicy Maple Ribs: Add 1 tsp cayenne pepper to the rub for a spicy kick.
• Honey-Glazed Ribs: Swap maple syrup for honey for a floral sweetness.
• Bourbon-Maple Ribs: Mix 2 tbsp bourbon into the maple glaze for a rich depth of flavor.
• Garlic Butter Ribs: Melt butter with garlic and baste along with the glaze.
• Pineapple Glazed Ribs: Add 2 tbsp pineapple juice to the glaze for a tropical twist.

Conclusion

These Iowa maple-glazed pork ribs are smoky, sweet, and irresistibly tender. The Arteflame grill ensures every bite is perfectly seared and juicy, making them a standout dish at any cookout.

Best Pairings

• Grilled corn on the cob
• Smoky baked beans
• Grilled potatoes with herbs
• Coleslaw
• Cold craft beer or lemonade