- Prepare the Ribs: Remove the membrane from the back of the ribs for better flavor absorption. Rinse the ribs under cold water and pat them dry with paper towels. Season both sides generously with salt and pepper.
- Make the Honey Garlic Sauce: In a medium saucepan, combine the honey, soy sauce, apple cider vinegar, minced garlic, grated ginger (if using), and black pepper. Heat over medium heat, stirring until well combined. If you prefer a thicker sauce, mix the cornstarch with a tablespoon of water to create a slurry, then add it to the sauce, cooking until it thickens.
- Marinate the Ribs: Place the ribs in a large baking dish or a resealable plastic bag. Pour half of the honey garlic sauce over the ribs, ensuring they are well coated. Reserve the other half for basting. Marinate the ribs in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour, preferably overnight for maximum flavor.
- Bake the Ribs: Place the marinated ribs on a lined baking sheet or in a baking dish. Cover with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for about 2.5 to 3 hours, or until the ribs are tender.
- Broil for a Sticky Finish: After the ribs are cooked, remove them from the oven and discard the foil. Preheat your broiler. Brush the remaining honey garlic sauce generously over the ribs. Broil for about 5-7 minutes, watching closely to prevent burning. The sauce should caramelize and become sticky.
- Serve and Enjoy: Once broiled, remove the ribs from the oven and let them rest for a few minutes before cutting. Serve with extra sauce on the side, and enjoy the sweet, sticky goodness of your honey garlic ribs!
Tips for the Perfect Honey Garlic Ribs
- Choose the Right Ribs: Baby back ribs are tender and meaty, while spare ribs have more fat and flavor. Choose according to your preference!
- Marinate for Extra Flavor: For the best flavor, allow the ribs to marinate overnight. This will give the sauce time to penetrate the meat.
- Grill Option: If you prefer a smoky flavor, you can finish the ribs on the grill instead of under the broiler. Just grill them over medium heat, basting with the sauce until caramelized.
Conclusion
Honey garlic ribs are the ultimate comfort food that’s sure to impress friends and family alike. With their tender texture and irresistible sweet and savory glaze, these ribs will quickly become a staple in your home cooking repertoire. Whether you’re hosting a backyard barbecue or enjoying a cozy night in, this recipe will bring joy to your table and delight to your taste buds. Try making these honey garlic ribs for your next meal, and savor the sticky, sweet flavor in every bite!
