Sticky Honey Garlic Ribs Recipe

Sticky Honey Garlic Ribs are the ultimate comfort food, bringing together the rich, tender meatiness of slow-cooked pork ribs with the irresistible flavor of a sticky, sweet, and savory glaze. This mouthwatering recipe is perfect for gatherings, weekend treats, or simply indulging in a hearty homemade dish. The sticky honey garlic glaze clings to the ribs beautifully, creating a glossy, flavorful coating that caramelizes in the oven.

Whether you’re serving them up at a party or enjoying them as a main course with rice or roasted vegetables, these ribs are sure to impress every time. The combination of soy sauce, garlic, and honey creates a balanced flavor profile that is both satisfying and deeply delicious. Here’s how to make your own fall-off-the-bone Sticky Honey Garlic Ribs at home.

Ingredients

• 2 racks of pork ribs (baby back or spare ribs)
• Salt to taste
• Black pepper to taste
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 tablespoon oil (for searing)
• 1/2 cup soy sauce
• 1/2 cup honey
• 1/4 cup brown sugar
• 6 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated (optional)
• 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar or rice vinegar
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch
• 2 tablespoons water (to mix with cornstarch)
• Chopped green onions and sesame seeds for garnish

Instructions

1. Prepare the Ribs
   Rinse the pork ribs under cold water and pat them dry with paper towels. Use a knife or your fingers to remove the thin membrane from the back of the ribs for better tenderness.
2. Season the Ribs
   Rub both sides of the ribs with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and smoked paprika. Let them rest for 15–30 minutes to absorb the flavors.
3. Sear the Ribs (Optional Step for Extra Flavor)
   Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the ribs on both sides until they develop a golden crust. This step helps enhance the flavor but can be skipped if you’re baking only.
4. Bake the Ribs (Low and Slow)
   Preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C). Place the ribs on a foil-lined baking sheet or baking dish, bone-side down. Cover with foil and bake for 2.5 to 3 hours until the ribs are tender and easily pull apart.
5. Prepare the Honey Garlic Sauce
   While the ribs are baking, combine soy sauce, honey, brown sugar, minced garlic, grated ginger, and vinegar in a saucepan. Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat, stirring occasionally.
6. Thicken the Sauce
   In a small bowl, mix cornstarch and water to make a slurry. Slowly add the slurry to the simmering sauce while stirring constantly. Cook for another 2–3 minutes until the sauce thickens into a glossy glaze. Remove from heat.
7. Glaze and Broil
   Once the ribs are tender, remove them from the oven and discard the foil. Generously brush the honey garlic sauce over the ribs. Turn the oven to broil and place the ribs under the broiler for 5–8 minutes, or until the glaze starts bubbling and slightly caramelizes. Watch carefully to avoid burning.
8. Final Touch and Serve
   Remove the ribs from the oven and let them rest for a few minutes. Slice between the bones, sprinkle with chopped green onions and sesame seeds, and serve immediately.