Coffee-Rubbed Cherry Cola Smoked Ribs

Ingredients:

For the Ribs:

• 2 racks of baby back ribs
• 1/4 cup ground coffee (medium roast)
• 2 tablespoons brown sugar
• 2 tablespoons paprika
• 1 tablespoon garlic powder
• 1 tablespoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

For the Cherry Cola BBQ Sauce:

• 1 cup cherry cola (such as Cherry Coke)
• 1/2 cup ketchup
• 1/4 cup cherry preserves or cherry jam
• 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
• 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• Salt and pepper to taste

How to get that TastyBurp

1. Prepare the Ribs:

   • Remove the membrane from the back of the ribs (as mentioned in the previous recipe).

2. Prepare the Coffee Rub:

   • In a bowl, combine the ground coffee, brown sugar, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, chili powder, salt, and black pepper to create the rub.

3. Season the Ribs:

   • Rub the coffee rub mixture evenly over both sides of the ribs, pressing it into the meat.
   • Wrap the seasoned ribs in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight.

4. Prepare the Smoker:

   • Preheat your smoker to a temperature of around 225°F (107°C) using your choice of wood chips or chunks. Fruitwoods like cherry or apple work well with this recipe.

5. Smoke the Ribs:

   • Place the seasoned ribs on the smoker grates, bone-side down.
   • Close the smoker and let the ribs smoke for approximately 4-5 hours, maintaining a consistent temperature.
   • Check the ribs for tenderness by using the "bend test" or by inserting a meat thermometer into the thickest part of the meat. They should be tender and have an internal temperature of around 195-203°F (90-95°C).

6. Prepare the Cherry Cola BBQ Sauce:

   • While the ribs are smoking, make the sauce. In a saucepan, combine the cherry cola, ketchup, cherry preserves, apple cider vinegar, Worcestershire sauce, minced garlic, salt, and pepper.
   • Simmer the sauce over low heat for 20-30 minutes, or until it thickens and reduces to your desired consistency.

7. Glaze the Ribs:

   • During the last 30 minutes of smoking, brush the cherry cola BBQ sauce onto the ribs, applying multiple coats and allowing it to set between applications.

8. Rest and Serve:

   • Once the ribs are done and have a beautiful glaze, remove them from the smoker and let them rest for about 10 minutes.
   • Slice between the bones, and serve with extra sauce on the side.
   • Enjoy that TastyBurp