Sticky Honey Garlic Ribs – Sweet, Savory, and Irresistible 🍯🧄
If you’re in the mood for comfort food with bold flavor, these Sticky Honey Garlic Ribs are calling your name. With a tender, fall-off-the-bone texture and a rich glaze made from honey, garlic, and soy, this dish is perfect for both cozy nights in or festive finger-licking gatherings. Let’s dive into this crowd-pleaser with expert tips, nutritional info, FAQs, and more.
Ingredients & Prep
Ingredients (Serves 4)
- 2 lbs pork ribs (baby back or spare ribs)
- 1/4 cup honey
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 3 tbsp brown sugar
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar (optional, for tang)
- 1 tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp sesame oil (optional)
- Green onions & sesame seeds for garnish (optional)
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prep the Ribs
Preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C). Cut ribs into portions (2–3 ribs per piece), and season with black pepper.
2. Bake Low and Slow
Place ribs on a foil-lined baking sheet. Cover tightly with foil and bake for 2 to 2.5 hours, or until fork-tender.
3. Make the Glaze
In a saucepan over medium heat, combine honey, soy sauce, brown sugar, garlic, vinegar, and sesame oil. Stir occasionally and simmer until it thickens slightly (about 5–7 minutes).
4. Glaze and Broil
Once ribs are tender, remove from oven and discard top foil. Brush generously with glaze. Broil ribs on high for 3–5 minutes to caramelize the glaze (watch closely!).
5. Serve and Garnish
Brush with any remaining glaze and garnish with chopped green onions and sesame seeds. Serve warm with rice, slaw, or grilled veggies.
Chef’s Tips
- Gordon Ramsay: “Add a splash of rice wine vinegar or ginger for brightness and balance.”
- Bobby Flay: “Finish ribs on the grill instead of broiling for a charred, smoky flavor.”
- The Pioneer Woman: “Make a double batch of glaze and serve extra on the side!”
- Ina Garten: “Always use fresh garlic—it makes a difference!”
Nutrition & Health Highlights (per serving, ~1/2 lb ribs)
| Nutrient | Amount | Benefit |
|---|---|---|
| Calories | ≈ 400–500 | Hearty main dish energy |
| Protein | 20–25g | Muscle support |
| Fat | 25–30g | Satisfying & flavorful |
| Carbs | 15–20g | Glaze contributes sweetness |
| Sodium | 700–900mg | From soy sauce—consider low-sodium version |
Serving Suggestions
- Steamed jasmine rice or coconut rice
- Asian-style slaw or sesame cucumber salad
- Grilled pineapple or roasted sweet potatoes
FAQs
- Can I make these in advance?
Yes! Bake the ribs the day before, store covered in fridge, then reheat and glaze before serving. - What if I don’t have apple cider vinegar?
Use rice vinegar or a splash of lemon/lime juice for tang. - Can I grill instead of bake?
Yes, just cook them low and slow over indirect heat, then finish with glaze on high heat. - How do I store leftovers?
Refrigerate in an airtight container up to 3 days. Reheat in oven at 300°F for 10–15 minutes. - Are these freezer-friendly?
Yes, freeze glazed or unglazed ribs for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight and reheat gently.
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Final Thoughts
These Sticky Honey Garlic Ribs strike the perfect balance between sweet, savory, and garlicky goodness. Whether you broil or grill, serve with rice or slaw, or double the glaze for dipping—this recipe is guaranteed to impress. Fire up your oven and let the aroma take over your kitchen. Enjoy! 🍖
