Ultimate Whiskey-Infused Grilled Baby Back Ribs
Indulge in the rich and smoky flavors of these Ultimate Whiskey-Infused Grilled Baby Back Ribs. This recipe elevates traditional BBQ with a perfect balance of sweetness, heat, and that unmistakable whiskey kick. The baby back ribs are slow-baked to tenderness and then finished on the grill, locking in the savory marinade and creating a caramelized exterior that is simply irresistible. Whether entertaining guests or enjoying a family feast, these ribs will undoubtedly impress everyone at the table. Perfect for any grilling occasion, the combination of spices and the homemade bourbon-infused sauce will keep you coming back for seconds!
4
Servings
650
Calories
18
Ingredients
Ingredients
baby back ribs
2 (cut into 4 half racks)
fresh coarse ground black pepper
to taste (for seasoning)
ground red chili pepper
3 1/4 tablespoons (divided for seasoning and sauce)
vegetable oil
2 1/4 tablespoons (for sautéing onions)
minced onion
1/2 cup (for sauce)
water
1 1/2 cups (for sauce)
tomato paste
1/2 cup (for sauce)
white vinegar
1/2 cup (for sauce)
brown sugar
1/2 cup (for sauce)
honey
2 1/2 tablespoons (for sauce)
Worcestershire sauce
2 tablespoons (for sauce)
salt
2 teaspoons (for seasoning and sauce)
liquid smoke flavoring
1 1/4 teaspoons (for sauce)
whiskey
2 teaspoons (for sauce)
garlic powder
2 teaspoons (for sauce)
paprika
1/4 teaspoon (for sauce)
onion powder
1/2 teaspoon (for sauce)
dark molasses
1 tablespoon (for sauce)
Instructions
1
Preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C).
2
Cut each full rack of baby back ribs in half to create four half racks.
3
Generously season the meat with salt, black pepper, and 1 tablespoon of ground red chili pepper, ensuring the seasoning covers the ribs evenly.
4
Wrap each half rack tightly in aluminum foil, creating a sealed packet to prevent moisture from escaping.
5
Place the wrapped ribs on a baking sheet and bake in the preheated oven for 2 1/2 hours until tender.
6
While the ribs are baking, heat the vegetable oil in a medium saucepan over medium heat.
7
Add the minced onions and sauté for about 5 minutes until they are soft and translucent.
8
Incorporate the water, tomato paste, vinegar, brown sugar, honey, and Worcestershire sauce into the saucepan, stirring well to combine.
9
Season the sauce with 2 teaspoons of salt, 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper, liquid smoke, whiskey, garlic powder, paprika, onion powder, dark molasses, and 1/2 tablespoon of ground chili pepper.
10
Bring the mixture to a rolling boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer uncovered for 1 1/4 hours, or until the sauce thickens to your liking.
11
Once thickened, remove the sauce from the heat and set aside.
12
Preheat your outdoor grill to high heat.
13
After baking, allow the ribs to stand for 10 minutes before removing the foil packets carefully.
14
Place the ribs directly onto the hot grill and cook for 3 to 4 minutes on each side, brushing generously with the reserved sauce during the final grilling stage; avoid applying sauce too early to prevent burning.
15
Remove from the grill, let them rest for a few minutes, and then serve these succulent ribs hot, with extra sauce on the side for dipping.
Nutrition Information
47g
Fat
40g
Protein
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the main protein in this recipe?
The main protein used in this recipe is two full racks of baby back ribs.
How many servings does this rib recipe yield?
This recipe is designed to serve 4 people.
What oven temperature is required for baking the ribs?
The oven should be preheated to 300°F (150°C).
How long should the ribs bake in the oven?
The ribs should be slow-baked in the oven for 2 1/2 hours until they are tender.
Why are the ribs wrapped in aluminum foil?
Wrapping the ribs tightly in foil creates a sealed packet that prevents moisture from escaping during the long baking process.
What ingredients are used for the initial seasoning?
The ribs are seasoned with salt, black pepper, and 1 tablespoon of ground red chili pepper before baking.
How should the ribs be cut before seasoning?
Each full rack of baby back ribs should be cut in half to create a total of four half racks.
What are the components of the whiskey-infused sauce?
The sauce includes vegetable oil, minced onions, water, tomato paste, white vinegar, brown sugar, honey, Worcestershire sauce, liquid smoke, whiskey, garlic powder, paprika, onion powder, and dark molasses.
How long does the homemade BBQ sauce need to simmer?
The sauce should simmer uncovered for about 1 1/4 hours until it reaches your desired thickness.
What type of whiskey is used in the sauce?
The recipe calls for 2 teaspoons of whiskey; the description also suggests a bourbon-infused profile.
When do I start the outdoor grill?
Preheat your outdoor grill to high heat after the ribs have finished baking in the oven.
How long do the ribs grill on each side?
The ribs should be grilled for 3 to 4 minutes on each side.
When is the best time to apply the BBQ sauce during grilling?
Apply the sauce generously during the final stage of grilling to prevent the sugars from burning.
How many calories are in a single serving?
Each serving contains approximately 650 calories.
What is the fat content per serving?
There are 47 grams of fat per serving of these ribs.
How much protein does this dish provide?
Each serving provides 40 grams of protein.
How much ground red chili pepper is used in total?
A total of 3 1/4 tablespoons of ground red chili pepper is used, divided between the seasoning and the sauce.
Is there liquid smoke in this recipe?
Yes, 1 1/4 teaspoons of liquid smoke flavoring is added to the sauce for a smoky aroma.
What role does the dark molasses play?
One tablespoon of dark molasses is used to add depth of flavor and sweetness to the whiskey sauce.
How long should the ribs rest after baking?
Allow the ribs to stand for 10 minutes after baking before removing them from the foil packets.
Can I serve extra sauce on the side?
Yes, it is recommended to serve the succulent ribs with extra sauce on the side for dipping.
What kind of oil is used for sautéing the onions?
The recipe calls for 2 1/4 tablespoons of vegetable oil.
How much honey is in the sauce?
The sauce contains 2 1/2 tablespoons of honey.
What type of vinegar is used?
The recipe uses 1/2 cup of white vinegar.
How much tomato paste is required?
You will need 1/2 cup of tomato paste for the sauce base.
Does the recipe use garlic powder?
Yes, 2 teaspoons of garlic powder are included in the sauce mixture.
How much brown sugar is needed?
The sauce requires 1/2 cup of brown sugar.
What type of onion is used in the sauce?
The recipe calls for 1/2 cup of minced onion.
Is paprika included in the spice blend?
Yes, 1/4 teaspoon of paprika is added to the sauce.
How much water is added to the sauce?
The recipe uses 1 1/2 cups of water to help thin the sauce before it simmers down.