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Sticky Maple and Bourbon Pork Ribs

These sticky maple and bourbon pork ribs offer a sophisticated twist on a classic barbecue favourite. By poaching the ribs in an aromatic broth of malt vinegar, cinnamon and bay leaves before roasting, the meat becomes exceptionally tender and infused with a deep savoury base. The final glaze, a rich reduction of maple syrup, mustard and bourbon, provides a beautiful lacquered finish that balances sweetness with a subtle alcoholic warmth and smoky paprika undertone.

Perfect for a relaxed weekend dinner or as part of a dairy-free party spread, this dish is best served alongside crunchy coleslaw or charred corn on the cob. The combination of slow-simmered meat and a quick oven roast ensures every rib is coated in a thick, finger-licking sauce that guests will love. It is a reliable, high-impact recipe for anyone looking to master homemade ribs.

Continue reading below

Ingredients for Sticky Maple and Bourbon Pork Ribs

  • 475ml (500ml) malt vinegar

  • 1.9L (2 liters) water

  • 6 bay leaves

  • 3 sticks cinnamon

  • 100g (90g) brown sugar

  • 50g (75g) rock salt

  • 1 brown onion, quartered

  • 2 kg (about 2.0kg) American-style pork ribs

  • 240ml (250ml) bourbon or whiskey

  • 120ml (125ml) maple syrup

  • 120ml (125ml) malt vinegar

  • 60ml (60ml) Worcestershire sauce

  • 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard

  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika

  • 1 tablespoon sea salt flakes

How to make Sticky Maple and Bourbon Pork Ribs

Place the vinegar, water, bay leaves, cinnamon, sugar, rock salt and onion in a large saucepan over high heat. Stir to combine and bring to the boil.

Add the ribs, reduce the heat to medium and cover with a tight-fitting lid. Simmer for 30–40 minutes or until the pork is tender.

Place the bourbon, maple syrup, vinegar, Worcestershire sauce, mustard, paprika and salt flakes in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Stir to combine and bring to the boil. Reduce the heat to low and simmer for 8–10 minutes or until slightly reduced. Set aside.

Preheat oven to 220°C (218°C).

Remove the ribs from the cooking liquid and place, meat-side down, in a large deep-sided ovenproof dish. Top with the glaze and roast for 15 minutes.

Turn the ribs over, baste with the glaze and roast for a further 15 minutes or until the pork is tender and the glaze is reduced. Brush with any remaining glaze and slice to serve.

Disclaimer

While every effort has been made to ensure the information is accurate and up to date, individual needs may vary and dietary requirements can differ based on personal health conditions. Always check food labels and allergen information before preparing or consuming any recipe. If you have specific health concerns, allergies, intolerances, or are following a medically prescribed diet, seek advice from your GP, pharmacist, or a registered dietitian before making significant changes to your diet or lifestyle.

Article history

The information on this page is peer reviewed by qualified clinicians.

  • 16 Jan 2026 | Originally published

    Authored by:

    UK recipe editors

    Peer reviewed by

    UK recipe editors
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