Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Sticky Honey Garlic Ribs are a mouthwatering blend of sweet, savory, and garlicky flavors, perfect for a hearty dinner or weekend barbecue. These ribs are slow-cooked until tender, then glazed with a sticky sauce made from honey, garlic, soy sauce, and a touch of vinegar. The result is finger-licking ribs with a caramelized finish that’s irresistible to both kids and adults alike.
ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
pork ribs (baby back or spare ribs)honeyssoy saucegarlic (minced)rice vinegarbrown sugarginger (fresh or ground)black peppercornsthinly sliced green onions (optional for garnish)sesame seeds (optional for garnish)
directions
Preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C) and line a baking tray with foil.
Place the ribs on the tray, season lightly with salt and pepper, and cover with foil.
Bake for 2.5 to 3 hours until tender.
While ribs are baking, prepare the sauce by combining honey, soy sauce, minced garlic, rice vinegar, brown sugar, ginger, and black pepper in a saucepan.
Simmer over medium heat until the sauce thickens slightly, about 10 minutes.
Remove the ribs from the oven and brush generously with the sauce.
Broil the ribs on high for 3-5 minutes, or until caramelized and sticky, watching closely to avoid burning.
Sprinkle with sesame seeds and green onions before serving if desired.
Servings and timing
This recipe serves 4-6 people.Preparation time: 15 minutesCooking time: 2.5-3 hoursBroiling time: 5 minutesTotal time: about 3 hours 20 minutes
Variations
Add chili flakes or hot sauce to the glaze for a spicy kick.
Use maple syrup instead of honey for a different kind of sweetness.
Marinate the ribs overnight in the sauce for deeper flavor.
Grill the ribs instead of baking for a smokier taste.
Use boneless pork for a quicker version.
storage/reheating
Store leftover ribs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) covered with foil for 15-20 minutes, or microwave in short intervals until hot.You can also freeze cooked ribs for up to 2 months.
FAQs
What type of ribs work best for this recipe?
Baby back ribs are tender and cook quicker, while spare ribs are meatier and more flavorful.
Can I cook these ribs in a slow cooker?
Yes, cook on low for 6-8 hours, then broil with sauce to finish.
Is it necessary to broil the ribs?
Broiling adds a caramelized finish, but you can skip it if desired.
Can I make the sauce in advance?
Yes, the sauce can be refrigerated for up to a week.
Are these ribs very sweet?
The honey makes them sweet, but it’s balanced by soy sauce and vinegar.
Can I use garlic powder instead of fresh garlic?
Yes, but fresh garlic gives a stronger, richer flavor.
Do I need to parboil the ribs first?
No, baking them low and slow achieves the same tenderness.
Can I double the sauce?
Absolutely, especially if you want extra for dipping.
Is there a substitute for rice vinegar?
Apple cider vinegar or white vinegar can be used in a pinch.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, just use a gluten-free soy sauce or tamari.
Conclusion
Sticky Honey Garlic Ribs are the ultimate comfort food, combining melt-in-your-mouth tenderness with a bold, sticky glaze. Perfect for gatherings or a special family dinner, these ribs deliver on both flavor and presentation. Try them once and they’ll become a regular in your recipe rotation.