Irresistible Gochujang-Maple-Glazed Smoked Ribs Recipe

Recipe By:
Scott

Imagine sinking your teeth into a tender rib slathered in a rich, smoky glaze that dances between sweet and spicy. The moment you catch a whiff of those Gochujang-Maple-Glazed Smoked Ribs sizzling away, your mouth waters in anticipation as the aroma of smoky barbecue fills the air. It’s like the universe is telling you, “Get ready for a flavor explosion!”

Now, here’s the kicker: these ribs aren’t just about taste; they tell a story. Picture summer barbecues with friends, laughter echoing against the backdrop of crackling meat on the grill, and sticky fingers reaching for one more rib. It’s not just a meal; it’s an experience that brings everyone together to bask in the glory of good food and cherished memories. So grab your bibs and prepare your taste buds; this is going to be one wild ride through flavor town!

Why You'll Love This Recipe

  • These Gochujang-Maple-Glazed Smoked Ribs are incredibly easy to prepare, making them perfect for novice cooks and seasoned grillers alike.
  • The unique blend of spicy gochujang and sweet maple syrup creates an unforgettable flavor profile that keeps everyone coming back for more.
  • They look stunning on any plate with their glossy glaze and caramelized edges, making dinner feel like a celebration.
  • Versatile enough for casual weeknights or festive gatherings, these ribs are sure to impress!

Ingredients for Gochujang-Maple-Glazed Smoked Ribs

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

  • Pork Ribs: Choose baby back ribs for tenderness or spare ribs for more meat on the bone; both work beautifully.
  • Gochujang: This Korean chili paste adds heat and depth; look for it in international sections or Asian markets.
  • Maple Syrup: Use pure maple syrup for that rich sweetness that balances out the spice from the gochujang.
  • Garlic Powder: A dash of garlic powder infuses an extra layer of flavor; fresh garlic works too if you prefer.
  • Apple Cider Vinegar: This acidity cuts through the richness of the ribs, creating a perfectly balanced flavor.
  • Salt and Pepper: Simple but essential for enhancing all those amazing flavors in your ribs.

For the Rub:

  • Brown Sugar: Adds sweetness and helps create that gorgeous caramelized crust; light or dark both do the trick!
  • Smoked Paprika: This spice gives your ribs an extra boost of smokiness without needing to fire up your smoker too much!

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Recipe preparation for Gochujang-Maple-Glazed Smoked Ribs

How to Make Gochujang-Maple-Glazed Smoked Ribs

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:

Step 1: Prepare Your Ribs

Start by removing the silver skin from the back of the ribs—this helps them absorb those tasty flavors better. Rinse them under cold water and pat dry with paper towels.

Step 2: Mix Your Rub

In a bowl, combine brown sugar, smoked paprika, salt, pepper, and garlic powder. This sweet and smoky rub will enhance every bite as it caramelizes during cooking.

Step 3: Apply the Rub

Generously coat both sides of your ribs with this magic mix! Don’t be shy; make sure every nook and cranny gets some love because flavor is key.

Step 4: Create Your Glaze

In another bowl, whisk together gochujang, maple syrup, apple cider vinegar, salt, and pepper until well combined. This sweet-spicy concoction will be your glaze once those ribs hit the grill.

Step 5: Smoke Those Ribs

Preheat your smoker to around 225°F (107°C). Place the seasoned ribs on grates bone-side down and smoke them low-and-slow for about three hours until they become tender.

Step 6: Finish with Glaze

During the last half hour of smoking, brush on that luscious gochujang-maple glaze generously. Keep brushing every ten minutes until they are beautifully caramelized and finger-licking good!

Transfer to plates and drizzle with extra glaze for the perfect finishing touch—serve hot while everyone’s still drooling over their first bite! Enjoy your Gochujang-Maple-Glazed Smoked Ribs at game night or summer BBQs—just don’t forget to share (or not)!

You Must Know

  • Gochujang-maple-glazed smoked ribs are not just a meal; they’re an experience!
  • The smoky, sweet, and spicy combination is a culinary masterpiece that will impress your friends and family.
  • Perfect for summer barbecues or a cozy dinner at home, these ribs are sure to be a hit.

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by preparing the ribs with a dry rub and letting them marinate for at least an hour. While they soak up the flavors, get your smoker ready. Once heated, smoke the ribs low and slow before glazing them with that delicious gochujang-maple mixture.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap out the maple syrup for honey if you want a different sweetness. You can also add extra spices like garlic powder or smoked paprika to enhance the flavor profile. Experimenting is part of the fun!

Storing & Reheating

Store any leftover gochujang-maple-glazed smoked ribs in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, wrap them in foil and warm them in the oven to keep them juicy and tender.

Chef's Helpful Tips

  • For perfect results, always trim excess fat from your ribs to prevent grease fires.
  • Letting your glaze cool slightly before applying it will help it stick better.
  • Finally, don’t rush the smoking process; low and slow equals flavor!

My friend once declared these ribs “the Holy Grail of barbecue.” After that, I was convinced I’d reached culinary nirvana! Each bite truly transports you to flavor heaven, making every cookout feel like a festive occasion!

FAQs :

What is Gochujang-Maple-Glazed Smoked Ribs?

Gochujang-Maple-Glazed Smoked Ribs are a delicious fusion dish that combines the rich, smoky flavor of pork ribs with the sweet and spicy notes of gochujang, a Korean chili paste. The addition of maple syrup enhances the sweetness and creates a beautiful glaze when cooked. This recipe not only elevates traditional smoked ribs but also introduces unique flavors that excite your taste buds.

How long do I need to smoke Gochujang-Maple-Glazed Ribs?

Smoking Gochujang-Maple-Glazed Ribs typically takes between five to six hours, depending on the thickness of the ribs and the smoker temperature. Maintaining a steady temperature of around 225°F to 250°F allows the meat to become tender while absorbing the smoky flavor. Remember to apply the glaze during the last hour of cooking for optimal flavor and texture.

Can I use a different type of meat for this recipe?

Yes, you can use different cuts of meat if you prefer. While pork ribs are traditional for this recipe, you can substitute with chicken or beef, adjusting cooking times accordingly. Keep in mind that each type of meat will have different smoking requirements and might alter the overall taste profile. Experimenting with various meats can lead to exciting new flavors!

How do I store leftover Gochujang-Maple-Glazed Ribs?

To store leftover Gochujang-Maple-Glazed Ribs, allow them to cool completely before wrapping them tightly in aluminum foil or placing them in an airtight container. Refrigerate them for up to three days or freeze for up to three months. When reheating, consider using an oven or grill to maintain their texture and flavor, ensuring they remain moist and delicious.

Conclusion for Gochujang-Maple-Glazed Smoked Ribs :

In summary, Gochujang-Maple-Glazed Smoked Ribs deliver an irresistible combination of sweet and spicy flavors paired with rich smokiness. This recipe requires patience but rewards you with tender and flavorful ribs perfect for any gathering. Don’t hesitate to experiment with this dish by trying different meats or spice levels to suit your taste preferences. Enjoy making these mouthwatering ribs at your next barbecue!

Print

Gochujang-Maple-Glazed Smoked Ribs

Experience the ultimate flavor fusion with Gochujang-Maple-Glazed Smoked Ribs. These tender pork ribs are coated in a rich, sweet, and spicy glaze that brings a delightful twist to traditional barbecue. Perfect for summer cookouts or cozy dinners, this recipe delivers mouthwatering ribs that will have everyone coming back for seconds.

  • Author: Jennifer
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 3 hours
  • Total Time: 3 hours 15 minutes
  • Yield: Serves approximately 4 people 1x
  • Category: Main
  • Method: Smoking
  • Cuisine: Korean

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 pounds baby back ribs
  • 3 tablespoons gochujang
  • 1/2 cup pure maple syrup
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • For the Rub: 1/4 cup brown sugar
  • 2 teaspoons smoked paprika

Instructions

  1. Preheat your smoker to 225°F (107°C). Remove the silver skin from the back of the ribs and pat dry.
  2. In a bowl, mix brown sugar, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper to create a rub. Generously coat both sides of the ribs.
  3. In another bowl, whisk together gochujang, maple syrup, apple cider vinegar, salt, and pepper for the glaze.
  4. Smoke the ribs bone-side down for about 3 hours until tender.
  5. Brush on the glaze during the last half hour of smoking, repeating every ten minutes until they are caramelized.
  6. Serve hot with extra glaze drizzled on top.

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 rib (approximately 100g)
  • Calories: 310
  • Sugar: 14g
  • Sodium: 600mg
  • Fat: 22g
  • Saturated Fat: 8g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 12g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 15g
  • Fiber: 0g
  • Protein: 18g
  • Cholesterol: 70mg

Keywords: - For a different sweetness level, you can replace maple syrup with honey. - Experiment with additional spices like chili flakes for an extra kick.

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