Sticky Honey Garlic Ribs

Ingredients

• 2–3 lbs pork ribs (baby back or spare ribs)
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• 1 tbsp oil (vegetable or olive)
• 4 garlic cloves, minced
• ½ cup honey
• ⅓ cup soy sauce (low sodium recommended)
• 2 tbsp rice vinegar (or apple cider vinegar)
• 1 tsp sesame oil (optional)
• ½ tsp chili flakes (optional for heat)
• 1 tbsp cornstarch + 2 tbsp water (slurry for thickening)
• Sliced green onions and sesame seeds for garnish

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C). Line a baking sheet with foil and place a wire rack on top.
2. Remove the membrane from the back of the ribs if needed. Season both sides of the ribs with salt and pepper.
3. Place the ribs on the rack, cover tightly with foil, and bake for 2.5 to 3 hours, or until tender.
4. While ribs are baking, make the sauce. Heat oil in a small saucepan over medium heat. Add garlic and sauté until fragrant (about 1 minute).
5. Add honey, soy sauce, vinegar, sesame oil (if using), and chili flakes. Simmer for 3–4 minutes.
6. Mix cornstarch and water to create a slurry. Stir into the sauce and simmer until thickened, about 2 minutes. Remove from heat.
7. Once ribs are cooked, remove from oven. Brush generously with the sticky honey garlic sauce.
8. Increase oven temperature to 425°F (220°C) or set to broil. Return ribs to oven, uncovered, and cook for 10–12 minutes until caramelized and slightly charred at edges.
9. Let rest for a few minutes, slice between the bones, garnish with green onions and sesame seeds, and serve hot!

Would you like a slow cooker or Instant Pot version of this recipe as well?