Ribs are a universal favorite, embodying the perfect combination of tender meat and bold flavors that satisfy the soul. Whether it’s a family gathering, a summer barbecue, or a cozy dinner at home, ribs always bring a touch of joy and indulgence to the table. Among the myriad ways to prepare them, one recipe stands out for its delightful blend of sweetness and savory notes: Honey Garlic Ribs.
This dish holds a special place in my culinary heart. I remember the first time I made these ribs, inspired by a craving for something both sticky and succulent. The result was beyond my expectations, and my family couldn’t get enough of them. The sweet, garlicky glaze caramelizes perfectly, coating the tender meat with a flavor that’s simply irresistible.
What makes this recipe even more appealing is its simplicity. With just a few key ingredients and straightforward steps, you can transform a couple of racks of ribs into a feast that looks like it took hours of painstaking preparation. The honey garlic sauce, with its balance of sweetness from the honey and tang from the soy sauce and vinegar, is a game-changer. It’s this sauce that elevates the ribs from ordinary to extraordinary.
In this blog post, I’ll guide you through the process of making these delectable Honey Garlic Ribs. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a kitchen novice, this recipe is designed to be approachable and rewarding. Let’s dive into the details and bring this delicious dish to your dining table, where it’s sure to become a new family favorite.
Ingredients:
- 2 racks of baby back ribs
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon garlic powder
- 1 tablespoon onion powder
- 1 cup honey
- 1/2 cup soy sauce
- 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 6 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon ginger, grated
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch
- 2 tablespoons water
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Ribs:
- Preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C).
- Remove the silver skin from the back of the ribs (if not already removed).
- Season the ribs generously with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder on both sides.
2. Cook the Ribs:
- Place the ribs on a baking sheet lined with aluminum foil. Cover the ribs tightly with another piece of aluminum foil.
- Bake the ribs in the preheated oven for 2.5 to 3 hours, or until the meat is tender and pulls away from the bone easily.
3. Prepare the Honey Garlic Sauce:
- While the ribs are baking, combine the honey, soy sauce, apple cider vinegar, brown sugar, minced garlic, grated ginger, and red pepper flakes (if using) in a medium saucepan.
- Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat, stirring occasionally.
- In a small bowl, mix the cornstarch and water to create a slurry. Add this to the simmering sauce and stir until the sauce thickens. Remove from heat and set aside.
4. Glaze the Ribs:
- Once the ribs are done, remove them from the oven and discard the top piece of aluminum foil.
- Brush the ribs generously with the honey garlic sauce.
- Increase the oven temperature to 425°F (220°C).
- Return the ribs to the oven, uncovered, and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the glaze is caramelized and sticky.
5. Serve:
- Remove the ribs from the oven and let them rest for a few minutes before cutting them into individual pieces.
- Serve the ribs hot, with extra honey garlic sauce on the side for dipping.
Tips:
- For an extra smoky flavor, you can finish the ribs on a grill instead of in the oven.
- These ribs pair wonderfully with coleslaw, potato salad, or cornbread.
Enjoy your Easy Honey Garlic Ribs! If you have any special variations or additional tips, feel free to share them!
