These Sticky Honey Garlic Ribs are the ultimate combination of sweet, savory, and tender perfection. Slowly cooked to ensure fall-off-the-bone texture, they are coated in a rich honey garlic glaze that caramelizes beautifully, creating a finger-licking good experience. Whether you’re preparing them for a backyard barbecue, a cozy dinner, or game-day indulgence, these ribs will be the highlight of any meal. The balance of garlic, soy sauce, and honey creates a deep, flavorful glaze that clings to the ribs, making every bite irresistible.
Ingredients:
For the Dry Rub:
- 2 tablespoons powdered ginger
- 1 tablespoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1 teaspoon ground thyme
- 1 ½ teaspoons kosher salt
For the Honey Garlic Glaze:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup honey
- ¼ cup soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
For the Ribs:
- 4 pounds pork ribs (baby back or side ribs)
Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Ribs
- Remove the silver skin from the back of the ribs. This ensures better seasoning absorption and prevents curling during cooking.
- Using a butter knife, loosen the silver skin at one end, then pull it off completely.
Step 2: Apply the Dry Rub
- In a small bowl, mix together powdered ginger, onion powder, garlic powder, cayenne pepper, black pepper, nutmeg, thyme, and kosher salt.
- Generously rub the spice mixture over both sides of the ribs.
- Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight, for deeper flavor penetration.
Step 3: Slow Cook the Ribs
- Preheat your oven to 225°F (107°C).
- Place the ribs on a wire rack over a baking sheet.
- Bake uncovered for 8-9 hours, depending on the thickness of the ribs. Baby back ribs may take less time than side ribs.
Step 4: Prepare the Honey Garlic Glaze
- In a medium saucepan, heat olive oil over medium heat.
- Add minced garlic and cook until softened but not browned.
- Stir in honey, soy sauce, and black pepper.
- Simmer for 20 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly. Watch carefully to prevent foaming over.
Step 5: Glaze the Ribs
- In the last 2 hours of cooking, begin brushing the glaze onto the ribs every 30 minutes.
- Continue layering the glaze to build up a sticky, caramelized coating.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
- When the ribs are done, a bone should easily pull away from the meat.
- Let the ribs rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.
Serving Suggestions & Tips
- Pair with coleslaw or garlic mashed potatoes for a complete meal.
- Serve with extra honey garlic sauce on the side for dipping.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
These Sticky Honey Garlic Ribs are a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, delivering bold flavors and melt-in-your-mouth tenderness. Would you like variations or additional cooking tips? 🍖🍯