Bourbon Glazed Pork Ribs: A Bold & Smoky BBQ Favorite
If you’re looking for ribs that are smoky, sweet, and packed with rich bourbon flavor, this bourbon glazed pork ribs recipe is one you need to try. Rasheed Philips, known for his time on Netflix’s American BBQ Showdown and his expertise in live-fire cooking, brings his signature approach to this cook, using charcoal-fired heat and a low-and-slow method to create deeply flavorful, perfectly glazed ribs.
With the Masterbuilt Gravity Series, achieving professional-level BBQ is easier than ever. These ribs are slow-smoked at 260°F, developing a perfect bark while the meat naturally pulls back from the bone. The final touch? A rich bourbon brown sugar glaze that balances smoky, savory, and sweet flavors in every bite.
Why the Gravity Series is Perfect for Smoking Ribs
When it comes to smoking, temperature control and fuel source make all the difference. The Gravity Series combines the ease of digital temperature control with the superior flavor of charcoal, making it one of the best choices for backyard pitmasters who want the depth of real wood-fired flavor without the hassle of tending a fire.
Unlike pellet grills, which burn compressed sawdust and produce a milder, less complex smoke, charcoal delivers authentic wood-fired taste with a deeper, richer smoke profile.
Curious to learn more about the difference? Check out our blog post on pellet smokers vs charcoal smokers.
This makes a huge difference in recipes like these bourbon glazed pork ribs, where the combination of slow-cooked pork, bourbon glaze, and smoke creates layers of bold, unbeatable flavor.
What is a Binder and Why Use One?
A binder is a thin layer of liquid applied to the meat before seasoning to help the dry rub stick. While mustard is a common choice, other options like olive oil or even a little vinegar can work just as well. The binder doesn’t affect the final taste of the meat but ensures the seasoning stays in place during the long smoking process, helping to build a flavorful crust or bark. In this ribs recipe, Rasheed uses classic yellow mustard as a binder before applying a generous layer of pork seasoning to create a well-balanced bite.
How These Ribs Come Together
Rasheed starts by applying a mustard binder and a generous layer of his favorite pork seasoning, ensuring every bite is packed with bold BBQ flavor. The ribs then go onto the Gravity Series 1050 Digital Charcoal Grill at 260°F, where they smoke low and slow until the meat starts pulling back from the bone, signaling that they’re perfectly tender.
But the real magic happens at the end—the bourbon brown sugar glaze. This sticky, caramelized layer adds the perfect amount of sweetness to complement the smoky richness of the ribs, creating a BBQ experience that’s next-level good.
Why Charcoal is the Best Choice for Smoking
If you’re serious about BBQ, charcoal is the way to go. With the Gravity Series, you don’t have to choose between convenience and flavor. You get the push-button ease of a pellet or gas grill, but with the superior taste and higher heat capabilities of charcoal. It’s the best of both worlds—whether you’re smoking ribs, searing steaks, or cooking up an entire BBQ spread. You can also add wood chunks for even more flavor!
Experience superior flavor with Masterbuilt's lump charcoal
About Rasheed Philips
Rasheed Philips is a BBQ expert, pitmaster, and all-around live-fire cooking enthusiast. He first gained recognition on Netflix’s American BBQ Showdown, where he showcased his skill and passion for crafting incredible barbecue. Today, he continues to inspire backyard cooks and BBQ enthusiasts with big flavors, bold techniques, and a love for the craft of smoking and grilling.
Fire Up the Smoker and Try These Bourbon Glazed Ribs
Whether you’re hosting a cookout or just want to enjoy next-level BBQ at home, these bourbon glazed pork ribs are a must-try. With the Gravity Series, charcoal-fired smoke, and a sweet bourbon glaze, this recipe delivers bold, smoky flavor with every bite.