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
- Preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C).
- Pat the ribs dry with a paper towel, then season generously on both sides with salt and black pepper.
Step 2: Sear the Ribs
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- 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
- In a small bowl, whisk together:
- Honey
- Soy sauce
- Minced garlic
- Apple cider vinegar
- Smoked paprika (if using)
Step 4: Bake the Ribs
- Place the seared ribs in a baking dish in a single layer.
- Pour the honey garlic sauce over the ribs, ensuring they are evenly coated.
- Cover the dish tightly with aluminum foil to trap moisture.
Step 5: Slow Cook to Perfection
- Bake in the preheated oven for 2 to 2.5 hours, or until the ribs are tender and the sauce has thickened.
- Baste the ribs occasionally with the sauce to infuse extra flavor.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
- Remove the ribs from the oven and allow them to rest for a few minutes.
- Sprinkle with fresh parsley for a pop of color and serve warm.
- 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!