Honey Garlic Ribs ????????????
These Honey Garlic Ribs are sweet, savory, and oh-so-tender! The ribs are coated in a sticky honey garlic sauce, giving them the perfect balance of sweetness and savory flavors. Whether you’re grilling, baking, or cooking them in the oven, these ribs are sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
- For the Ribs:
- 2 racks of baby back ribs (about 3 lbs)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (for searing)
- For the Honey Garlic Sauce:
- 1/2 cup honey
- 1/4 cup soy sauce (preferably low-sodium)
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons rice vinegar (or apple cider vinegar)
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard (optional for tang)
- 1 teaspoon ground ginger (optional, for extra flavor)
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water (for thickening)
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil (optional, for a deeper flavor)
- 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a little heat)
- Chopped green onions or sesame seeds (for garnish)
Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Ribs
- Preheat the oven to 300°F (150°C). If you’re grilling, prepare your grill to medium heat.
- Remove the membrane from the back of the ribs (this helps make them more tender). Pat the ribs dry with paper towels.
- Season the ribs generously with salt and pepper on both sides.
Step 2: Sear the Ribs (Optional for extra flavor)
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.
- Add the ribs and sear them for about 2-3 minutes on each side until they develop a nice golden crust. (If grilling, skip this step and go straight to the grill.)
Step 3: Slow-Cook the Ribs (Oven or Grill)
- Oven method: Place the seared ribs on a baking sheet lined with foil. Cover with another piece of foil to keep the moisture in. Bake for about 2.5 hours, or until the ribs are tender and cooked through.
- Grill method: Place the ribs on the grill and cook for 2 hours over indirect heat, flipping occasionally. Make sure to check for tenderness (they should be easily pierced with a fork or knife).
Step 4: Make the Honey Garlic Sauce
- While the ribs are cooking, make the honey garlic sauce. In a small saucepan, combine the honey, soy sauce, minced garlic, rice vinegar, Dijon mustard, ground ginger, sesame oil, and red pepper flakes (if using).
- Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat and cook for about 5-7 minutes until the garlic is fragrant and the sauce thickens slightly.
- Mix the cornstarch with water in a small bowl and add it to the sauce. Stir well and simmer for another 1-2 minutes until the sauce thickens to your liking.
Step 5: Glaze the Ribs
- Once the ribs are cooked and tender, brush them generously with the honey garlic sauce. Make sure both sides of the ribs are coated with the sauce.
- Optional: If you want the sauce to caramelize a bit, place the glazed ribs under the broiler for 2-3 minutes, watching carefully to prevent burning.
Step 6: Serve
- Remove the ribs from the oven or grill and let them rest for a few minutes.
- Slice the ribs between the bones and arrange them on a serving platter.
- Garnish with chopped green onions or sesame seeds for extra flavor and a pop of color.
Step 7: Enjoy Serve these sweet and savory Honey Garlic Ribs with your favorite sides, like coleslaw, roasted vegetables, or a side of mashed potatoes! ????
Tips:
- For extra tender ribs, cook them low and slow in the oven or on the grill. The slow cooking helps break down the connective tissue, making the ribs more tender.
- Adjust the sweetness: If you like your ribs extra sweet, add more honey; for a tangier sauce, increase the vinegar slightly.
These Honey Garlic Ribs are perfect for any occasion—whether it’s a family dinner, a BBQ party, or a special treat for yourself!