These Sweet and Spicy Cola Ribs are a delightful twist on the classic barbecue ribs, featuring a tangy and flavorful sauce.
Place the ribs in a large baking dish and pour the cola over them, ensuring they are fully submerged.
Marinating the ribs in cola tenderizes the meat and infuses it with a subtle sweetness.
Sprinkle the salt over the ribs and cover the dish. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight.
Overnight marination yields the best flavor and tenderness.
Preheat the oven to 350°F. Remove the ribs from the marinade, pat them dry, and rub with the chili powder and brown sugar mixture.
Drying the ribs ensures the rub adheres well and forms a flavorful crust.
Place the ribs in a baking dish, add 1 cup of water, and cover tightly with foil. Bake for 2 hours.
Adding water prevents the ribs from drying out during baking.
In a saucepan, heat oil over medium heat. Sauté the onion and garlic until softened.
Cooking the onion and garlic releases their natural sweetness, enhancing the sauce.
Add the ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, cider vinegar, cayenne pepper, mustard, and 1/2 cup of cola to the saucepan. Simmer until thickened.
Simmering the sauce allows the flavors to meld together beautifully.
Preheat the grill to medium-high heat. Brush the ribs with the barbecue sauce.
Brushing the sauce on the ribs before grilling enhances the smoky flavor.
Grill the ribs bone-side down for 10 minutes, then flip and grill for another 10 minutes until lightly charred.
Grilling adds a delicious smoky flavor and caramelizes the sauce.
Remove the ribs from the grill and brush with additional sauce before serving.
Serve the ribs hot with extra sauce on the side for dipping.