Honey Garlic Ribs: Sweet, Savory, and Finger-Licking Good
There’s nothing quite like a platter of honey garlic ribs to bring everyone to the table. Sticky, tender, and bursting with flavor, these ribs are the perfect blend of sweet and savory. Whether you’re hosting a summer barbecue, need a show-stopping dish for game night, or just want a comforting weekend meal, honey garlic ribs are guaranteed to impress.
A Timeless BBQ Favorite
Honey garlic ribs are beloved across cultures, combining the sweetness of honey with the boldness of garlic and soy sauce. The glaze caramelizes beautifully during cooking, creating a sticky coating that’s impossible to resist. This recipe takes a simple, approachable approach to making fall-off-the-bone ribs that anyone can master.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Minimal Ingredients: Just four pantry staples are all you need for the perfect glaze.
- Sweet and Savory: The honey-soy combination creates an unbeatable balance of flavors.
- Tender Texture: The ribs are cooked until they’re juicy and perfectly tender.
- Crowd-Pleaser: This dish is a hit at family gatherings, BBQs, or casual dinners.
Step-by-Step Guide to Honey Garlic Ribs
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 pounds pork spareribs
- ½ cup honey
- ¼ cup soy sauce
- ¼ cup distilled white vinegar
Instructions
1. Prep the Ribs
- Preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C).
- Remove the membrane from the back of the ribs for the most tender texture. Rinse the ribs under cold water and pat dry with paper towels.
2. Create the Marinade
- In a small bowl, whisk together the honey, soy sauce, and distilled white vinegar. This will serve as both the marinade and the glaze.
3. Marinate the Ribs
- Place the ribs in a large resealable bag or shallow dish. Pour the honey garlic marinade over the ribs, ensuring they’re evenly coated.
- Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or overnight for deeper flavor.
4. Bake the Ribs
- Place the marinated ribs on a foil-lined baking sheet, meaty side up. Reserve the leftover marinade.
- Cover the ribs with another piece of foil and bake for 2½ hours, until tender.
5. Glaze and Broil
- Preheat your oven’s broiler.
- Remove the top foil and brush the ribs generously with the reserved marinade.
- Place the ribs under the broiler for 5-7 minutes, or until the glaze caramelizes and becomes sticky. Keep a close eye to avoid burning.
6. Serve and Enjoy
- Slice the ribs into individual pieces and arrange them on a serving platter.
- Serve with extra honey garlic glaze on the side, and pair with coleslaw, cornbread, or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.
Tips for Perfect Honey Garlic Ribs
- Low and Slow Cooking: Baking at a low temperature ensures the meat stays tender and juicy.
- Make Ahead: Marinate the ribs overnight for maximum flavor.
- Grill Option: Instead of broiling, finish the ribs on a hot grill for smoky, charred edges.
- Customizable: Add chili flakes for a spicy kick or fresh ginger for extra zing.