Frequently Asked Questions
What are Tropical Whiskey-Glazed Baby Back Ribs?
They are a sweet and savory dish featuring pork ribs marinated in a mixture of sugar, soy sauce, and whiskey, then oven-roasted until tender.
What type of ribs are used in this recipe?
This recipe calls for 4-5 racks of baby-back pork ribs.
How long should the ribs marinate?
The ribs should be refrigerated and allowed to marinate for a minimum of 24 hours for optimal flavor.
What kind of whiskey is recommended for the glaze?
The recipe specifically uses Jack Daniels Whiskey for the glaze.
How much sugar is required for the marinade?
You will need 1 1/2 cups of white sugar.
What temperature should the oven be set to?
The oven should be preheated to 350 degrees Fahrenheit (175 degrees Celsius).
How long do the ribs need to roast?
The ribs should roast for approximately 1 hour and 45 minutes.
How often should I baste the ribs during cooking?
You should baste the ribs with the reserved marinade every 20 minutes.
When should I stop basting the ribs?
Stop basting during the last 10 minutes of cooking to allow the glaze to set properly.
Where should the oven rack be positioned?
Position the oven rack in the second-lowest position for even roasting.
How should the garlic be prepared for the marinade?
The 7-8 garlic cloves should be sliced or cut in half.
How do I prepare the fresh ginger?
The fresh ginger should be finely minced, totaling 1 tablespoon.
Should the ribs be cut before marinating?
No, you should not cut the ribs apart; marinate and roast the racks whole.
What should I do with the marinade after removing the ribs to roast?
Reserve the marinade to use for basting the ribs while they are in the oven.
Is it okay to discard the garlic slices before roasting?
Yes, you can discard the garlic slices after the marinating process is complete if desired.
Which side of the ribs should face up on the broiler pan?
The ribs should be placed on the broiler pan with the rounded side facing up.
What is the purpose of letting the ribs rest after roasting?
Resting allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring the meat is moist and easier to cut.
Can I use a lid instead of plastic wrap for the marinating pan?
Yes, you can use either a lid or plastic wrap to cover the roasting pan during refrigeration.
What are the main components of the marinade?
The marinade consists of white sugar, soy sauce, ketchup, whiskey, salt, black pepper, garlic, and ginger.
How do I know when the ribs are finished cooking?
The ribs are finished when they are tender and have developed a beautiful, caramelized brown glaze.
What should I do with any leftover marinade after the ribs are done?
Any leftover marinade that was used for basting or marinating should be discarded.
Is this recipe suitable for outdoor cooking?
Yes, while written for an oven, the recipe is versatile enough for barbecue and grilling environments.
How much soy sauce is in the recipe?
The recipe requires 1 cup of soy sauce.
How much ketchup is used in the glaze?
The glaze uses 1/2 cup of ketchup.
Why do I need to turn the ribs while they marinate?
Turning the ribs occasionally ensures that all surfaces are evenly coated and the flavor is absorbed throughout.
What does the glaze look like once finished?
The glaze should be sticky, caramelized, and a beautiful brown color.
What is the expected texture of the meat?
The meat is expected to have a tender, fall-off-the-bone texture.
How much whiskey should I add?
You can use between 1/3 and 1/2 cup of Jack Daniels Whiskey depending on your preference.
Can I serve these ribs immediately after taking them out of the oven?
It is recommended to let them rest for a few minutes before cutting and serving.
What are some recommended sides for this dish?
These ribs pair well with traditional barbecue sides like coleslaw, corn on the cob, or potato salad.