The Old Dragon Rum BBQ Marinade: How to get the perfect caramelized crust on your ribs (Recipe)

Grilling is more than just putting meat on a fire. It is a ritual. Just like getting a tattoo or enjoying a fine rum. When you drink Old Dragon, you know we don’t do things by halves. That is why we developed a marinade that gives your meat character.

Forget the boring standard marinades from the supermarket. Our “Old Dragon Rum Glaze” uses the natural sweetness and deep aromas of our Spiced Rum to create a crust on the grill that is simply addictive. Perfect for spare ribs, pulled pork, or chicken wings.

Why Old Dragon is the gamechanger for your marinade

The key to a good BBQ sauce is the balance between sweetness, acidity, and spice. Our Old Dragon Premium Spiced Rum naturally brings notes of caramel and banana. These sugars caramelize on the hot grill and create that irresistible, sticky-sweet crust (“glaze”), while the spices give the meat depth. It is the taste of adventure and campfires.

The recipe: Old Dragon Rum BBQ Glaze

Ingredients (for approx. 2 kg of meat, e.g., ribs):

• 100 ml Old Dragon Premium Spiced Rum (The soul of the marinade)
• 200 ml Ketchup (As a base)
• 50 ml maple syrup or honey (Supports caramelization)
• 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar (For the necessary acidity)
• 2 tbsp soy sauce (For the umami kick)
• 1 tsp smoked paprika powder (For the smoky note)
• 1 garlic clove, finely chopped or pressed
• Freshly ground pepper
• Optional: 1 finely chopped chili for some fire

The preparation: It couldn’t be simpler

1. Everything in the pot: Place all ingredients (Old Dragon Rum, ketchup, syrup, vinegar, soy sauce, spices) into a small pot.
2. Boil & Reduce: Bring the mixture to a boil while stirring. Then reduce the heat and let the marinade simmer for approx. 10-15 minutes until it has thickened slightly. The consistency should be syrupy.
3. Let cool: Remove the pot from the heat and let the marinade cool down.
4. Application:
   • As a marinade: Place your meat (e.g., ribs) in half of the marinade for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight.
   • As a glaze: Use the other half of the marinade to brush your meat repeatedly during the last 15-20 minutes on the grill. This creates the perfect crust.

This marinade is proof that Old Dragon doesn’t just belong in a glass. Try it out at your next BBQ and tag us on Instagram @old.dragon.rum. We want to see your caramelized masterpieces!

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