Step 1: Prepare the Ribs
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 275°F (135°C).
- Remove Membrane: Remove the thin membrane from the back of the ribs by sliding a knife under it and pulling it off.
- Season Ribs: In a small bowl, mix together the salt, black pepper, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and chili powder (if using). Rub this mixture all over both sides of the ribs.
Step 2: Cook the Ribs
- Wrap in Foil: Place each rack of ribs on a large piece of aluminum foil. Wrap the ribs tightly in the foil, ensuring they are fully sealed.
- Bake: Place the wrapped ribs on a baking sheet and bake in the preheated oven for 2.5 to 3 hours, or until the ribs are tender and easily pull away from the bone.
Step 3: Make the Honey Garlic Sauce
- Combine Ingredients: While the ribs are baking, prepare the sauce. In a medium saucepan, combine the honey, soy sauce, hoisin sauce, brown sugar, minced garlic, rice vinegar, sesame oil, grated ginger, and red pepper flakes (if using).
- Simmer: Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat, stirring occasionally. Let it simmer for about 5-7 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened slightly.
Step 4: Glaze the Ribs
- Preheat Grill or Broiler: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat or your broiler to high.
- Brush with Sauce: Carefully unwrap the ribs and brush both sides generously with the honey garlic sauce.
- Grill or Broil: Place the ribs on the grill or under the broiler. Cook for about 3-5 minutes per side, or until the sauce is caramelized and sticky. Be careful not to burn the sauce.
Step 5: Serve
- Cut and Garnish: Remove the ribs from the grill or broiler and let them rest for a few minutes. Cut the ribs into individual pieces and transfer them to a serving platter.
- Garnish: Sprinkle with chopped green onions and sesame seeds.
Tips for the Best Honey Garlic Ribs
- Slow Cooking: Cooking the ribs low and slow ensures they become tender and fall off the bone.
- Sauce Thickness: If your sauce is too thin, let it simmer for a few more minutes to thicken up. If it becomes too thick, you can add a bit of water to reach the desired consistency.
- Avoid Burning: When grilling or broiling, keep a close eye on the ribs to avoid burning the sauce. The sugars in the sauce can caramelize quickly.
Why This Recipe Works
The combination of slow-cooked, tender ribs and a sweet, savory honey garlic sauce creates an irresistible dish. The slow baking ensures the ribs are perfectly tender, while the final grilling or broiling step adds a delicious caramelized finish. The balance of flavors in the sauce complements the rich taste of the pork ribs, making this a crowd-pleasing recipe.
Variations to Try
- Spicy Ribs: Add more red pepper flakes or a bit of sriracha to the sauce for a spicier version.
- Citrus Twist: Add a tablespoon of orange or lime juice to the sauce for a citrusy flavor.
- Sticky BBQ: Mix in some of your favorite BBQ sauce with the honey garlic sauce for a different flavor profile.
Serving Suggestions
- With Sides: Serve the ribs with classic sides like coleslaw, potato salad, or cornbread.
- Over Rice: Serve the ribs over steamed white rice or fried rice for a complete meal.
- In Sandwiches: Use the rib meat to make delicious sandwiches or sliders.
Enjoy making and devouring these Honey Garlic Ribs, a dish that’s sure to impress and satisfy everyone at your table!