Spit Roasted Sweet Bourbon Ribs

Prep: 240 min Cuisine: American

Juicy, tender ribs glazed with a sweet bourbon marinade, combining smoky, tangy, and caramelized flavors perfect for gatherings or weekend barbecues.

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Ingredients

  • 1/2 cup firmly packed brown sugar
  • 1/2 cup bourbon
  • 1/4 cup soy sauce
  • Juice of 1 lemon
  • 1/2 cup beer
  • 4 to 5 pounds spareribs

Instructions

  1. In a small saucepan, combine brown sugar, bourbon, soy sauce, lemon juice, and beer, then heat until the brown sugar dissolves.
  2. Lay the spareribs in a glass or ceramic dish and pour the hot marinade over them.
  3. Marinate the ribs for several hours at room temperature or overnight in the refrigerator.
  4. Grill the marinated ribs until cooked through and caramelized, then enjoy!

Tips & Substitutions

For optimal flavor, marinate the ribs overnight. If you prefer a spicier kick, add some cayenne pepper or hot sauce to the marinade. You can substitute the bourbon with a non-alcoholic whiskey alternative if desired. Always ensure the ribs are cooked to an internal temperature of at least 145°F for safe consumption.

Serving Suggestions

Serve these sweet bourbon ribs with a side of coleslaw, such as Slaw Delight, for a refreshing crunch. They also pair well with cornbread or baked beans. For a drink pairing, consider serving with a light beer or a glass of Rose Wine to complement the sweetness of the ribs.

Storage & Reheating

Leftover ribs can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, wrap them in aluminum foil and place them in a preheated oven at 300°F for about 15-20 minutes, or until heated through. This keeps them moist and flavorful.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Spit Roasted Sweet Bourbon Ribs contains roughly 190 calories, with 4g protein, 43g carbohydrates, and 1g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (47% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2058mg per serving (89% of the Daily Value).

190 kcal 9% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 4.3g 9% DV
Total Fat 0.8g 1% DV
Carbs 43.4g 16% DV
Fiber 0.2g 1% DV
Sugar 14.9g 30% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 2058.1mg 89% DV
Potassium 889.1mg 19% DV
Cholesterol 0.9mg

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 0mcg
Vitamin C 2.6mg 3% DV
Vitamin D 0mcg
Calcium 83.9mg 6% DV
Iron 8.4mg 47% DV
Diet fit Under 400 cal Low-fat
Contains Soy

Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.

* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a different type of ribs?

Yes, you can use baby back ribs or even beef ribs if you prefer. Just adjust the cooking time as needed, since different types may require varying lengths of time on the grill to cook through properly.

Is it necessary to marinate the ribs?

While marinating enhances the flavor and tenderness of the ribs, if you're short on time, you can skip this step. Just make sure to apply the marinade generously before grilling for some flavor infusion.

Can I make the marinade ahead of time?

Absolutely! The marinade can be prepared a day in advance and stored in the refrigerator. Just give it a good stir before pouring it over the ribs, as some ingredients may settle.

Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).

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