Honey Garlic Ribs

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

1. Preheat the oven to 300°F (150°C). If you’re grilling, prepare your grill to medium heat.
2. Remove the membrane from the back of the ribs (this helps make them more tender). Pat the ribs dry with paper towels.
3. Season the ribs generously with salt and pepper on both sides.

Step 2: Sear the Ribs (Optional for extra flavor)

1. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.
2. 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)

1. 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.
2. 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

1. 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).
2. 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.
3. 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

1. 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.
2. 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

1. Remove the ribs from the oven or grill and let them rest for a few minutes.
2. Slice the ribs between the bones and arrange them on a serving platter.
3. 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!