Tender, fall-off-the-bone ribs glazed in a sweet and savory honey garlic sauce. Perfect for gatherings, family dinners, or any time you’re craving a delicious comfort dish!

Ingredients

For the Ribs:

• 2 lbs pork ribs (baby back or spare ribs work well)
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• 2 tbsp olive oil

For the Honey Garlic Sauce:

• 1/2 cup honey 🍯
• 1/4 cup soy sauce 🥢
• 4 cloves garlic, minced 🧄
• 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar 🍎
• 1/2 tsp smoked paprika (optional, for added depth)

For Garnish:

• Fresh parsley, chopped 🌿

Instructions

Step 1: Prep the Ribs

1. Preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. Pat the ribs dry with a paper towel, then season generously on both sides with salt and black pepper.

Step 2: Sear the Ribs

1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Sear the ribs for 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown. This step helps to seal in the flavor and create a caramelized crust.

Step 3: Prepare the Honey Garlic Sauce

1. In a small bowl, whisk together:
   • Honey
   • Soy sauce
   • Minced garlic
   • Apple cider vinegar
   • Smoked paprika (if using)

Step 4: Bake the Ribs

1. Place the seared ribs in a baking dish in a single layer.
2. Pour the honey garlic sauce over the ribs, ensuring they are evenly coated.
3. Cover the dish tightly with aluminum foil to trap moisture.

Step 5: Slow Cook to Perfection

1. Bake in the preheated oven for 2 to 2.5 hours, or until the ribs are tender and the sauce has thickened.
2. Baste the ribs occasionally with the sauce to infuse extra flavor.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

1. Remove the ribs from the oven and allow them to rest for a few minutes.
2. Sprinkle with fresh parsley for a pop of color and serve warm.
3. Drizzle extra sauce over the top for a glossy finish.

Serving Suggestions

• Pair with mashed potatoes, coleslaw, or steamed veggies for a balanced meal.
• Serve with crusty bread to soak up the extra sauce.

Cooking Tips

• For Extra Tender Ribs: Use the slow cooker on low for 6-8 hours instead of the oven. Finish by broiling for 2-3 minutes to caramelize the sauce.
• For Grilled Ribs: Bake the ribs covered for 2 hours, then finish on a hot grill for a smoky char.
• Add Heat: Mix in a dash of chili flakes or sriracha for spicy honey garlic ribs.

FAQs

1. Can I use beef ribs instead of pork ribs?

Absolutely! Adjust the cooking time slightly, as beef ribs may take a bit longer to become tender.

2. What if I don’t have apple cider vinegar?

White vinegar or lemon juice works as a substitute.

3. Can I prepare the sauce ahead of time?

Yes! You can make the honey garlic sauce up to 3 days in advance and store it in the refrigerator.

4. How do I reheat leftover ribs?

Reheat in a 300°F oven, covered with foil, for 15-20 minutes. Alternatively, microwave in short bursts to avoid drying them out.

5. Can I freeze cooked ribs?

Yes, store cooled ribs in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw and reheat in the oven.

Conclusion

These Honey Garlic Ribs are the ultimate crowd-pleaser, offering a perfect balance of sweet, savory, and smoky flavors. Whether served as a main dish or party appetizer, they’re guaranteed to impress.

Save this recipe for your next dinner plan, and enjoy the compliments that roll in!