Sticky Honey Garlic Ribs

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Sticky Honey Garlic Ribs

Introduction

Sticky Honey Garlic Ribs are a beloved comfort food known for their sweet, savory, and slightly spicy glaze. These ribs are slow-cooked until tender, then coated in a rich honey-garlic sauce that caramelizes beautifully. The balance of honey, soy sauce, garlic, and spices creates an irresistible dish perfect for family gatherings, parties, or even a casual weeknight dinner.

Ingredients

  • 2 lbs. pork spare ribs
  • 1/4 cup honey
  • 1/4 cup soy sauce
  • 3 tbsp ketchup
  • 2 tbsp brown sugar
  • 6 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar
  • 2 tsp cornstarch
  • 1/4 tsp crushed red pepper flakes

Instructions & Methods

Step 1: Prepare the Ribs

  1. Wash and pat dry the pork spare ribs.
  2. Cut into individual rib portions for even cooking.

Step 2: Make the Sauce

  1. In a bowl, mix honey, soy sauce, ketchup, brown sugar, minced garlic, apple cider vinegar, and crushed red pepper flakes.
  2. Stir until smooth and well combined.

Step 3: Cook the Ribs

  • Oven Method:
  1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
  2. Place ribs in a baking dish, pour sauce over, and cover with foil.
  3. Bake for 2–2.5 hours until ribs are tender.
  4. Remove foil, baste with sauce, and bake another 20 minutes until caramelized.
  • Slow Cooker Method:
  1. Place ribs in slow cooker, pour sauce over.
  2. Cook on LOW for 6–7 hours or HIGH for 3–4 hours.
  3. Transfer ribs to a baking tray, broil for 5 minutes to caramelize.
  • Grill Method:
  1. Pre-cook ribs in simmering water for 45 minutes until tender.
  2. Brush with sauce and grill for 15–20 minutes, turning and basting frequently.

Step 4: Thicken the Sauce

  1. In a small bowl, mix cornstarch with 2 tbsp water.
  2. Heat leftover sauce in a saucepan, add cornstarch slurry, and simmer until thickened.
  3. Glaze ribs with sauce before serving.

History of Sticky Ribs

Honey garlic ribs are believed to have roots in both Asian and Western cooking traditions. The honey-garlic flavor combination is especially popular in Chinese cuisine, while American barbecue techniques influenced the slow-cooked, sticky rib preparation. Over time, this fusion dish became a favorite in restaurants and homes worldwide.

Benefits

  • Protein-rich: Pork ribs provide essential protein for muscle health.
  • Garlic benefits: Boosts immunity and supports heart health.
  • Honey benefits: A natural sweetener rich in antioxidants.
  • Balanced flavors: Combines sweet, savory, tangy, and spicy tastes.

Nutrition (per serving, approx. 4 servings)

  • Calories: ~450
  • Protein: 26g
  • Fat: 22g
  • Carbohydrates: 34g
  • Sugar: 20g
  • Fiber: 1g

Formation (Serving Ideas)

  • Serve with steamed rice, roasted vegetables, or coleslaw.
  • Garnish with sesame seeds and chopped green onions.
  • Pair with a refreshing cucumber salad or pickled veggies.

Conclusion

Sticky Honey Garlic Ribs are a perfect balance of flavors that satisfy both sweet and savory cravings. Whether you prepare them in the oven, slow cooker, or grill, the result is tender, juicy ribs coated in a luscious glaze. This dish is not only delicious but also a true crowd-pleaser for any occasion.

Lovers of This Dish

Food lovers who enjoy sweet-and-savory flavors, barbecue fans, and garlic enthusiasts will absolutely love these ribs. They’re a hit at family dinners, game nights, and summer cookouts.

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