- Remove the membrane from the back of the ribs for a more tender texture.
- In a small bowl, mix salt, black pepper, smoked paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder.
- Rub the seasoning evenly over both sides of the ribs.
Step 2: Cook the Ribs
Oven Method:
- Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
- Wrap the ribs tightly in foil and place on a baking sheet.
- Bake for 2.5 – 3 hours until tender.
Slow Cooker Method:
- Place ribs in a slow cooker and cook on low for 6-7 hours or high for 4 hours.
Grill Method:
- Preheat grill to medium heat and grill ribs for 1.5 – 2 hours, turning occasionally.
Step 3: Make the Sticky Honey Garlic Sauce
- In a saucepan, combine honey, soy sauce, ketchup, brown sugar, garlic, ginger, and apple cider vinegar.
- Simmer over medium heat for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- If a thicker sauce is desired, mix 1 teaspoon cornstarch with 1 tablespoon water and stir into the sauce. Simmer until thickened.
Step 4: Glaze & Broil the Ribs
- Once ribs are tender, remove from foil and brush with the honey garlic sauce.
- Set oven to broil and place ribs back in for 5 minutes, or until caramelized.
- Alternatively, grill over high heat for 3-5 minutes for a smoky finish.
Step 5: Garnish & Serve
- Sprinkle ribs with sesame seeds and green onions.
- Serve hot with extra sauce on the side.
Serving and Storage Tips
Serving Suggestions
- Pair with steamed rice, roasted vegetables, or mashed potatoes.
- Serve with a fresh coleslaw or a cucumber salad for balance.
- Enjoy with warm dinner rolls or grilled corn on the cob.
Storage & Reheating
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Reheat in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for 15 minutes, covered with foil.
- For freezing, wrap ribs in foil and store for up to 2 months.
Variants
- Spicy Kick: Add 1 teaspoon Sriracha or red pepper flakes to the sauce.
- BBQ Fusion: Mix in ¼ cup BBQ sauce for a smoky touch.
- Ginger Soy Ribs: Add extra fresh ginger and a splash of sesame oil to the sauce.
- Sticky Hoisin Ribs: Swap ketchup for hoisin sauce for a deeper umami flavor.
FAQ
1. Can I use pork spare ribs instead of baby back ribs?
Yes! Spare ribs are a bit meatier and take an extra 30-45 minutes in the oven.
2. Can I make the sauce ahead of time?
Absolutely! Store it in the fridge for up to a week and reheat before using.
3. Can I cook ribs in an Instant Pot?
Yes! Cook ribs on high pressure for 25 minutes, then broil or grill for a crispy finish.
4. How do I know when my ribs are done?
The meat should be tender and slightly pull away from the bones. A fork should slide in easily!
5. Can I use boneless ribs?
Yes, but adjust the cooking time—boneless ribs cook faster, in about 90 minutes in the oven.
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