Here’s a recipe for Honey Garlic Ribs—a sweet and savory treat that combines the sticky goodness of honey with the savory depth of garlic and soy sauce. These ribs are tender, flavorful, and perfect for grilling or baking!
Ingredients:
- 2 racks of baby back ribs (about 2-2.5 lbs)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (optional, for searing)
For the Honey Garlic Sauce:
- 1/2 cup honey
- 1/4 cup soy sauce (low-sodium preferred)
- 4 cloves garlic (minced)
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar (or white vinegar)
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard (optional, for added depth)
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar (optional, for a tangy kick)
- 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for a little heat)
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch (to thicken the sauce, optional)
- 1 tablespoon water (for cornstarch slurry, optional)
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Ribs:
- Preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C) if baking. If you’re grilling, get your grill set up for indirect heat.
- Remove the silver skin (the thin membrane) from the back of the ribs by sliding a knife underneath and pulling it off. This helps the ribs become more tender.
- Season the ribs generously with salt and pepper on both sides.
2. Cook the Ribs (Baking or Grilling):
- Baking Method:
- Place the ribs on a baking sheet lined with aluminum foil. Cover them with another sheet of foil and bake in the preheated oven for 2.5-3 hours, or until the ribs are tender and cooked through.
- Grilling Method:
- Preheat your grill to medium heat, setting up for indirect cooking. Place the ribs bone-side down on the cooler side of the grill, close the lid, and cook for 2-2.5 hours, turning occasionally, until they’re tender.
3. Make the Honey Garlic Sauce:
- While the ribs are cooking, in a small saucepan, combine the honey, soy sauce, garlic, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, rice vinegar (if using), and crushed red pepper flakes (if using).
- Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat, stirring occasionally. Let it cook for 5-7 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
- If you want a thicker sauce, make a cornstarch slurry by mixing 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 1 tablespoon of water. Slowly add it to the simmering sauce, stirring until it thickens. Remove from heat.
4. Finish the Ribs:
- If Baking: Once the ribs are done, remove them from the oven and discard the top piece of foil. Brush the honey garlic sauce over the ribs and return them to the oven for an additional 10-15 minutes (uncovered) to allow the sauce to caramelize slightly.
- If Grilling: Once the ribs are done, brush the honey garlic sauce over the ribs during the last 5-10 minutes of grilling, turning frequently to avoid burning the sauce.
5. Serve:
- Once the ribs are nicely glazed with the honey garlic sauce, remove them from the oven or grill. Let them rest for a few minutes before slicing.
- Serve with extra sauce on the side for dipping and garnish with chopped green onions or sesame seeds for an extra touch.
Tips:
- For Extra Crispiness: If you want your ribs to have a crispy exterior, you can finish them under the broiler for 1-2 minutes after glazing them with the sauce.
- Spice it Up: Add a little more crushed red pepper flakes or even a bit of sriracha to the sauce for some heat.
- Sides: Serve with roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad to balance out the richness of the ribs.
These Honey Garlic Ribs are a perfect combination of sweet, savory, and sticky—ideal for a barbecue or a comforting dinner! Enjoy!