Step 1: Prepare the Ribs
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C).
- Remove the Membrane: Remove the thin membrane from the back of the ribs. This helps the seasoning penetrate and makes the ribs more tender.
- Season the Ribs: In a small bowl, mix the olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, black pepper, salt, and cayenne pepper (if using). Rub this mixture all over both sides of the ribs.
Step 2: Cook the Ribs
- Wrap the Ribs: Wrap each rack of ribs in aluminum foil, sealing the edges tightly to create a packet.
- 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 the meat is pulling away from the bones.
Step 3: Make the Sticky Glaze
- Combine Ingredients: In a medium saucepan, combine the soy sauce, hoisin sauce, honey, brown sugar, rice vinegar, ketchup, sriracha (if using), minced garlic, grated ginger, and sesame oil.
- Simmer: Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat, stirring occasionally. Let it simmer for about 10-15 minutes, or until the sauce thickens and becomes glossy.
Step 4: Glaze and Grill the Ribs
- Preheat the Grill: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
- Brush with Glaze: Remove the ribs from the foil and place them on the grill. Brush the ribs generously with the sticky glaze.
- Grill the Ribs: Grill the ribs for about 5-10 minutes, turning and brushing with more glaze frequently, until the ribs are caramelized and sticky. Be careful not to burn them.
Step 5: Serve
- Garnish: Transfer the ribs to a serving platter and sprinkle with sesame seeds and chopped green onions.
- Serve: Serve the sticky pork ribs hot, with extra glaze on the side if desired.
Tips for Perfect Sticky Pork Ribs
- Low and Slow: Cooking the ribs low and slow in the oven ensures they become tender and flavorful.
- Foil Packet: Wrapping the ribs in foil helps retain moisture and creates a steaming effect that makes the ribs tender.
- Glaze Frequently: When grilling, keep brushing the ribs with the glaze to build up a sticky, caramelized layer of flavor.
- Resting Time: Let the ribs rest for a few minutes after grilling before cutting them. This allows the juices to redistribute, keeping the ribs moist.
Final Thoughts
Sticky pork ribs are a delightful combination of sweet, savory, and slightly spicy flavors, perfect for any rib lover. This recipe ensures the ribs are tender, juicy, and coated in a deliciously sticky glaze that will have everyone coming back for more. Enjoy making and devouring these irresistible sticky pork ribs!