These Coca-Cola Ribs are a show-stopping centerpiece for any barbecue or family gathering. The secret lies in the unique combination of slow-smoked pork and a homemade sauce that balances the sweetness of dark brown sugar and cola with the tang of ketchup and a kick of chili powder. The cola helps tenderize the meat while caramelizing into a sticky, glossy glaze. The result is ribs that are fall-off-the-bone tender with a complex flavor profile that is both smoky and sweet. This dish requires patience but rewards you with an unforgettable meal that pairs perfectly with cornbread or coleslaw. Its a classic American comfort food elevated by a surprising ingredient.
Coca-Cola Ribs
Description
These Coca-Cola Ribs are a show-stopping centerpiece for any barbecue or family gathering. The secret lies in the unique combination of slow-smoked pork and a homemade sauce that balances the sweetness of dark brown sugar and cola with the tang of ketchup and a kick of chili powder. The cola helps tenderize the meat while caramelizing into a sticky, glossy glaze. The result is ribs that are fall-off-the-bone tender with a complex flavor profile that is both smoky and sweet. This dish requires patience but rewards you with an unforgettable meal that pairs perfectly with cornbread or coleslaw. Its a classic American comfort food elevated by a surprising ingredient.Ingredients
Directions
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Place the pork ribs in a large non-reactive glass or ceramic dish.
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Pour 2 cups of Coca-Cola or Dr. Pepper over the ribs, ensuring they are well coated.
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Set aside the remaining 1 cup of soda for the sauce later.
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Cover the dish tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate overnight to marinate.
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About 6 1/2 hours before serving, prepare your smoker or grill by lighting a fire and heating a quantity of coals.
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While the smoker heats, prepare the sauce by pouring the reserved 1 cup of soda into a blender or food processor.
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Add the ketchup, packed dark brown sugar, chili powder, ground black pepper, dry mustard, and ground cinnamon to the blender.
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Blend until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
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Set the sauce aside; it will be cooked later.
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Add well-soaked aromatic wood chips, such as hickory or mesquite, to the glowing coals in your smoker.
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Place a water pan filled with hot water in the smoker to maintain humidity.
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Remove ribs from the marinade, discarding the liquid, and place them in the smoker.
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Smoke the ribs covered at 220 to 240 degrees F (116C) for about 3 hours.
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After 3 hours, turn the ribs over and brush them generously with half of the prepared sauce.
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Check the wood and water levels, replenishing as necessary.
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Continue smoking for another 3 hours, turning the ribs every 30 minutes and basting with more sauce each time.
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Meanwhile, pour the remaining sauce into a medium-sized saucepan and simmer over low heat until it thickens significantly.
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Remove ribs from the smoker once they reach an internal temperature of 160 to 170 degrees F and are tender.
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Serve the ribs hot, accompanied by the thickened sauce in dipping bowls.
Nutrition Facts
Servings 1
- Amount Per Serving
- Calories 2098.2kcal
- % Daily Value *
- Total Fat 73.6g114%
- Saturated Fat 24.4g122%
- Cholesterol 363.2mg122%
- Sodium 3889.5mg163%
- Total Carbohydrate 247.1g83%
- Dietary Fiber 59.2g237%
- Sugars 105.7g
- Protein 154.7g310%
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
