Introduction:
Sticky Honey Garlic Ribs are the ultimate crowd-pleaser—juicy, tender ribs coated in a sweet, savory, garlicky glaze that’s absolutely addictive. Whether you’re hosting a BBQ, game night, or just craving some finger-licking comfort food, this dish delivers big flavor with minimal fuss.
Ingredients:
For the Ribs:
2–3 lbs pork ribs (baby back or spare ribs)
Salt and black pepper, to taste
1 tsp paprika (optional)
1 tsp garlic powder
For the Sticky Honey Garlic Sauce:
1/2 cup honey
1/4 cup soy sauce (low sodium if preferred)
2 tbsp rice vinegar or apple cider vinegar
4–5 cloves garlic, minced
1 tbsp fresh ginger, grated (optional)
1 tsp cornstarch + 1 tbsp water (for thickening)
1 tbsp sesame oil (optional)
Red pepper flakes (optional, for a little heat)
Instructions:
Prep the ribs:
Remove the membrane from the back of the ribs if it’s still on. Pat dry and season with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika.
Bake the ribs (low & slow):
Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C). Wrap the ribs in foil and place on a baking tray. Bake for 2.5–3 hours until tender.
Make the sauce:
In a saucepan over medium heat, combine honey, soy sauce, vinegar, garlic, ginger, and sesame oil.
Let it simmer for 5–7 minutes. Mix cornstarch and water, then stir into the sauce to thicken. Remove from heat.
Glaze the ribs:
Remove ribs from the oven and carefully unwrap. Brush generously with the sticky sauce.
Broil or grill:
Turn on the broiler (or preheat a grill).
Broil ribs for 5–8 minutes or until the glaze is bubbling and slightly caramelized. Watch carefully so it doesn’t burn.
Serve:
Let ribs rest for a few minutes. Slice between the bones, garnish with green onions or sesame seeds if desired, and serve hot.
Description:
These ribs are fall-off-the-bone tender with a sticky glaze that’s sweet from the honey, savory from the soy sauce, and bold from the garlic.
Every bite packs a perfect balance of flavor—sweet, salty, and just a hint of heat if you like it spicy.
Tips:
For extra tenderness, marinate the ribs in a bit of the sauce overnight before baking.
Use parchment paper under the ribs to reduce cleanup.
Want crispier ribs? Grill them for the last few minutes instead of broiling.
Double the sauce and use it as a dip or drizzle over rice.
Variations:
Spicy Version: Add sriracha or chili garlic sauce to the glaze.
Asian Twist: Add hoisin sauce or a splash of sesame oil to deepen the flavor.
Air Fryer Method: Cut ribs into smaller sections and cook in an air fryer at 375°F for 20–25 minutes, flipping halfway, then brush with sauce and air fry 5 more minutes.
Corrections & Substitutions:
No rice vinegar? Use lemon juice or white vinegar.
Don’t have fresh ginger? Use 1/2 tsp ground ginger.
No cornstarch? Use arrowroot powder or reduce the sauce longer for natural thickening.
Enjoy:
Serve these sticky honey garlic ribs with steamed rice, coleslaw, or roasted veggies. Don’t forget napkins—it’s going to get deliciously messy!
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