Sticky Cola-Braised Pork Ribs with Fresh Chili and Cilantro
This mouthwatering pork rib recipe combines a bold spice rub with a sweet and savory cola-apple juice braise, followed by a quick high-heat grilling session for that perfect caramelized finish. Finished with a fresh chili-cilantro topping and a squeeze of lime, these sticky ribs are a guaranteed hit at any summer cookout.
Ingredients
- 1 kg pork ribs
Spice Rub
- 4 garlic cloves
- 1 tbsp salt
- 1 tbsp raw cane sugar
- 1 tbsp chili powder
- 1 tbsp paprika powder
- 2 tsp freshly ground black pepper
For Braising
- 2 small bottles of 33 cl cola
- 1 liter apple juice
To Finish
- 1 juice of one lime
- 1 lime cut into wedges
- 1 red chili chopped
- 1 yellow chili chopped
- 1 green chili chopped
- 1 dl about ½ cup fresh cilantro chopped
Instructions
Make the spice rub and marinate:
- Peel and finely chop the garlic into a bowl. Add salt, sugar, chili powder, paprika, and black pepper. Mix well. Rub the spice blend all over the ribs.
- Let marinate in the fridge for at least 2 hours, preferably overnight. You can also cook them right away, but longer marination improves flavor.
Braise the ribs:
- Braise the ribs: Cut the rib slab into large sections that fit in your pot. Place in a large pot and pour in the cola and apple juice.
- Simmer gently with the lid on for 2 hours. Let the ribs rest in the liquid for 20 minutes.
Cook and reduce the braising liquid:
- Remove the ribs and boil the braising liquid until reduced to about 2 dl and thickened into a glaze.
Grill
- Grill: Preheat your grill to high.
- Brush the glaze on the ribs and grill for about 5 minutes per side, basting and turning occasionally. Add a final layer of glaze at the end.Squeeze fresh lime juice over the ribs and top with finely chopped red, yellow, and green chilies and fresh cilantro.
- Just before serving, pour the remaining braising liquid over the ribs. It adds a glossy finish and boosts the flavor with every bite.
- Squeeze fresh lime juice over the ribs and top with finely chopped red, yellow, and green chilies and fresh cilantro. Serve hot and let everyone dig in!
Notes
Tips & Serving Suggestions
Perfect Pairings:These flavorful pork ribs go wonderfully with classic summer sides. Try them with:
- Grilled corn on the cob – brushed with butter and a sprinkle of chili-lime salt.
- Creamy coleslaw – to balance the heat with cool crunch.
- Roasted or hasselback potatoes – for a hearty addition to the plate.
- Fresh green salad – with lime vinaigrette to echo the zesty flavors in the ribs.
If you like more heat, add extra chopped fresh chili on top or serve with a spicy salsa or hot sauce on the side. For a Crowd:
This recipe doubles easily and can be prepped ahead. Grill the ribs just before serving for the best texture and taste.