Cherry Cola Ribs: A Sweet and Tangy BBQ Delight

Are you ready to take your barbecue game to the next level? Forget the same old sauce and try something truly unique: Cherry Cola Ribs! This recipe combines the classic flavors of BBQ ribs with the sweet and tangy twist of cherry cola, creating a surprisingly delicious and unforgettable dish. The cola tenderizes the meat, while the cherry flavor adds a delightful sweetness that complements the smoky richness of the ribs. This recipe is perfect for summer cookouts, game day gatherings, or any time you want to impress your friends and family with your culinary skills. Get ready to be the star of the BBQ!

This recipe provides detailed instructions for both oven-baked and grill-finished ribs, offering flexibility based on your preference and equipment. While smoking the ribs is also an option, this recipe focuses on the more accessible oven/grill method. Feel free to adapt the recipe if you prefer to use a smoker, adjusting cooking times and temperatures accordingly.

## Why Cherry Cola Ribs?

You might be skeptical, but trust me, the combination of cherry cola and BBQ ribs is a match made in heaven. Here’s why:

* **Tenderizing Power:** The phosphoric acid in cola acts as a natural meat tenderizer, breaking down the tough fibers in the ribs and resulting in incredibly tender and juicy meat.
* **Unique Flavor Profile:** The cherry cola adds a sweet and tangy flavor that complements the smoky and savory notes of the BBQ sauce and spices. It’s a complex and balanced flavor that will tantalize your taste buds.
* **Easy to Make:** Despite the seemingly exotic flavor combination, this recipe is surprisingly easy to make with readily available ingredients.
* **Crowd-Pleasing:** These ribs are guaranteed to be a hit at any gathering. The unique flavor will have everyone asking for the recipe!

## Ingredients You’ll Need

Before you start, gather all the necessary ingredients. This will make the cooking process smoother and more efficient.

* **3-4 pounds Pork Ribs (Spare Ribs or Baby Back Ribs):** Choose your favorite type of ribs. Spare ribs are meatier and have more fat, while baby back ribs are leaner and more tender. Remove the membrane from the back of the ribs.
* **1 (12-ounce) can Cherry Cola:** The star of the show! Regular cherry cola works best, but you can experiment with diet cherry cola if you prefer (although it might slightly affect the sweetness).
* **1 cup BBQ Sauce:** Use your favorite store-bought or homemade BBQ sauce. A smoky or tangy BBQ sauce will complement the cherry cola nicely. Adjust the amount based on your preference for sauciness.
* **2 tablespoons Brown Sugar:** Adds sweetness and helps create a delicious caramelized crust.
* **1 tablespoon Paprika:** Provides a smoky and slightly sweet flavor.
* **1 tablespoon Garlic Powder:** Adds a savory depth of flavor.
* **1 teaspoon Onion Powder:** Enhances the savory flavors.
* **1 teaspoon Chili Powder:** Adds a touch of heat.
* **1/2 teaspoon Ground Cumin:** Contributes a warm and earthy flavor.
* **1/2 teaspoon Black Pepper:** Adds a bit of spice.
* **1/2 teaspoon Salt:** Enhances the flavors of all the other ingredients.
* **Optional:**
* Liquid Smoke (1 teaspoon): If you’re not grilling, liquid smoke can add a smoky flavor to the ribs.
* Apple Cider Vinegar (1 tablespoon): Adds a touch of tanginess to the marinade.
* Worcestershire Sauce (1 tablespoon): Adds a savory umami flavor to the marinade.

## Equipment

* Large Baking Sheet
* Aluminum Foil
* Large Pot or Dutch Oven (optional, for pre-boiling ribs)
* Mixing Bowl
* Measuring Spoons and Cups
* Grill (optional)

## Step-by-Step Instructions

Follow these detailed instructions to create perfectly cooked and flavorful cherry cola ribs.

### Step 1: Prepare the Ribs

* **Remove the Membrane:** This is a crucial step! Flip the ribs over so the bone side is facing up. Locate the thin, silvery membrane that covers the bones. Use a butter knife or a spoon to loosen a corner of the membrane. Then, grab the loosened corner with a paper towel and pull the membrane off. This can be a bit tricky, but the paper towel will help you get a good grip. Removing the membrane allows the marinade and smoke to penetrate the meat better, resulting in more tender and flavorful ribs.
* **Cut the Ribs (Optional):** You can leave the ribs as a whole rack, or cut them into smaller sections (3-4 ribs per section) for easier handling and faster cooking. This is entirely up to your preference.

### Step 2: Make the Cherry Cola Marinade

* **Combine Ingredients:** In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the cherry cola, brown sugar, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, chili powder, ground cumin, black pepper, and salt. Add the optional liquid smoke, apple cider vinegar, and Worcestershire sauce if desired.
* **Marinate the Ribs:** Place the ribs in a large resealable plastic bag or a large container. Pour the cherry cola marinade over the ribs, ensuring they are fully coated. Seal the bag or cover the container and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight. The longer the ribs marinate, the more flavorful and tender they will become. Turn the ribs occasionally to ensure even marinating.

### Step 3: Pre-Cook the Ribs (Oven Method)

This step is essential for tenderizing the ribs. You have two options: oven-baking or pre-boiling.

* **Oven-Baking (Recommended):** Preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C). Line a large baking sheet with aluminum foil. Remove the ribs from the marinade and place them on the prepared baking sheet, bone-side down. Pour the remaining marinade over the ribs. Cover the baking sheet tightly with another layer of aluminum foil. Bake for 2.5-3 hours, or until the ribs are very tender. The meat should easily pull away from the bones.
* **Pre-Boiling (Alternative):** Place the ribs in a large pot or Dutch oven. Cover with water and bring to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer for 1-1.5 hours, or until the ribs are tender. Drain the ribs and let them cool slightly before handling.

### Step 4: Add BBQ Sauce and Finish (Oven or Grill)

Now it’s time to add the BBQ sauce and create that delicious caramelized crust.

* **Oven Finish:** Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Remove the ribs from the baking sheet (if you pre-baked them) or from the pot (if you pre-boiled them). Place them on a clean baking sheet lined with aluminum foil. Brush the ribs generously with BBQ sauce. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the sauce is bubbly and caramelized. Turn the ribs halfway through to ensure even cooking.
* **Grill Finish (Recommended):** Preheat your grill to medium heat (about 350°F or 175°C). Remove the ribs from the baking sheet (if you pre-baked them) or from the pot (if you pre-boiled them). Place the ribs on the grill and brush them generously with BBQ sauce. Grill for 10-15 minutes, turning frequently and brushing with more BBQ sauce, until the sauce is bubbly and caramelized. Watch carefully to prevent burning.

### Step 5: Rest and Serve

* **Rest:** Once the ribs are cooked to your liking, remove them from the oven or grill and let them rest for 5-10 minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in even more tender and flavorful ribs.
* **Serve:** Serve the cherry cola ribs hot with your favorite BBQ sides, such as coleslaw, potato salad, corn on the cob, and baked beans. Enjoy!

## Tips for Perfect Cherry Cola Ribs

* **Don’t skip the membrane removal:** This is crucial for tender ribs.
* **Marinate for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight:** The longer the marinating time, the better the flavor.
* **Pre-cooking is key for tenderness:** Don’t skip the oven-baking or pre-boiling step.
* **Use your favorite BBQ sauce:** Experiment with different flavors to find your perfect combination.
* **Don’t overcook the ribs:** They should be tender but not falling apart.
* **Baste frequently with BBQ sauce during the final cooking stage:** This will create a delicious caramelized crust.
* **Let the ribs rest before serving:** This allows the juices to redistribute and results in more tender ribs.
* **Adjust cooking times based on your oven or grill:** Use a meat thermometer to ensure the ribs are cooked to a safe internal temperature (145°F or 63°C).

## Variations and Additions

* **Spicy Cherry Cola Ribs:** Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce to the marinade for a spicy kick.
* **Honey Garlic Cherry Cola Ribs:** Add 2 tablespoons of honey and 2 cloves of minced garlic to the marinade.
* **Smoked Cherry Cola Ribs:** If you have a smoker, smoke the ribs at 225°F (107°C) for 4-6 hours, or until they are tender. Then, brush with BBQ sauce and smoke for another hour.
* **Crock-Pot Cherry Cola Ribs:** Place the ribs in a slow cooker and pour the marinade over them. Cook on low for 6-8 hours, or on high for 3-4 hours. Then, brush with BBQ sauce and broil in the oven for a few minutes to caramelize the sauce.

## Serving Suggestions

Cherry Cola Ribs are a delicious and versatile dish that can be served with a variety of sides. Here are a few suggestions:

* **Classic BBQ Sides:** Coleslaw, potato salad, corn on the cob, baked beans, macaroni and cheese.
* **Fresh and Light Sides:** Watermelon salad, cucumber salad, green salad with vinaigrette.
* **Hearty Sides:** Mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, cornbread.
* **Drinks:** Iced tea, lemonade, beer, cherry cola (of course!).

## Nutrition Information (Estimated)

*Please note that the nutrition information is an estimate and may vary depending on the specific ingredients and cooking methods used.*

* Serving Size: 1/4 rack of ribs
* Calories: 500-600
* Fat: 30-40g
* Saturated Fat: 10-15g
* Cholesterol: 150-200mg
* Sodium: 500-700mg
* Carbohydrates: 30-40g
* Sugar: 20-30g
* Protein: 30-40g

## Conclusion

Cherry Cola Ribs are a fun and flavorful twist on a classic BBQ favorite. The sweet and tangy cherry cola marinade tenderizes the meat and adds a unique depth of flavor that will impress your friends and family. Whether you bake them in the oven or grill them to perfection, these ribs are sure to be a hit at your next cookout. So, fire up the grill (or preheat the oven) and get ready to enjoy some seriously delicious cherry cola ribs! Don’t be afraid to experiment with different BBQ sauces and seasonings to create your own signature version. Happy grilling!