Honey Garlic Ribs are the ultimate combination of savory, sweet, and sticky goodness, creating a dish that’s guaranteed to satisfy your cravings. These tender pork spareribs are coated in a rich, caramelized glaze made from honey, soy sauce, vinegar, brown sugar, and garlic, delivering bold flavors in every bite. Perfect for gatherings, weeknight dinners, or special occasions, this recipe is easy to prepare and hard to resist. Whether you’re a barbecue enthusiast or a beginner cook, these ribs are sure to become a favorite in your culinary repertoire.
Why This Recipe Works
Balance of Flavors: The sweetness of honey and brown sugar is beautifully balanced by the saltiness of soy sauce and the tang of vinegar, while garlic adds depth and richness.
Tender Texture: Baking the ribs at a consistent temperature ensures that they’re cooked to perfection, becoming tender and juicy while the glaze caramelizes on top.
Simple Ingredients: You don’t need fancy or hard-to-find items; this recipe uses pantry staples to deliver restaurant-quality results.
Versatile and Crowd-Pleasing: These ribs work just as well as the centerpiece of a casual family meal or as a standout dish at a party.
What You’ll Need For This Recipe
Ingredients
Pork spareribs (4 pounds): Choose ribs with some marbling for extra flavor and juiciness.
Honey (½ cup): Acts as the sweetener and helps create that sticky, glossy glaze.
Soy sauce (¼ cup): Adds a savory umami punch to the marinade.
Distilled white vinegar (¼ cup): Balances the sweetness with a hint of acidity.
Brown sugar (2 tablespoons): Enhances the caramelization and provides a deep molasses flavor.
Garlic (2 cloves, minced): Adds aromatic depth to the glaze.
Baking soda (1 teaspoon): Helps tenderize the ribs during the marinade.
Garlic salt (1 teaspoon): Enhances the seasoning and adds a touch of garlic flavor.
Equipment
Mixing bowl: For preparing the marinade.
Foil-lined cookie sheet: To keep the ribs juicy and make cleanup easier.
Oven: Preheats to 375°F (190°C) for even cooking.
Tongs: For turning the ribs every 20 minutes.
How To Make Honey Garlic Ribs
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Set your oven to 375°F (190°C) and prepare a cookie sheet by lining it with foil. This ensures even heat distribution and prevents the ribs from sticking.
Step 2: Slice the Ribs
Using a sharp knife, cut the pork spareribs into individual pieces. This allows for better marination and even cooking.
Step 3: Prepare the Marinade
In a large bowl, mix honey, soy sauce, vinegar, brown sugar, and minced garlic. Stir the mixture until the honey and sugar are fully dissolved. Add baking soda to the mixture; it will begin to foam, which helps tenderize the meat.
Step 4: Marinate the Ribs
Place the rib pieces into the bowl with the marinade. Turn them to ensure each piece is fully coated. Allow the ribs to sit in the marinade for about 10 minutes to absorb the flavors.
Step 5: Arrange on a Baking Sheet
Transfer the ribs to the prepared cookie sheet, arranging them meat-side up. Pour the excess marinade over the ribs for maximum flavor. Sprinkle garlic salt evenly over the top.
Step 6: Bake and Turn
Bake the ribs in the preheated oven for 1 hour, turning them every 20 minutes. This ensures even cooking and allows the glaze to caramelize beautifully.
Step 7: Rest and Serve
Once baked, let the ribs rest for 5 minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring tender, succulent bites.
Tips + Tricks & More For Recipe Success
Choose Quality Ribs: Opt for fresh, high-quality pork spareribs for the best results. Look for ribs with a good meat-to-fat ratio.
Don’t Skip the Foil: Lining the baking sheet with foil not only makes cleanup a breeze but also helps retain moisture.
Turn for Even Glaze: Turning the ribs every 20 minutes ensures the marinade caramelizes evenly on all sides.
Marinate Longer: If you have extra time, let the ribs marinate for up to an hour for deeper flavor penetration.
Experiment with Add-Ons: Add chili flakes for a spicy kick, or a dash of smoked paprika for a smoky flavor.
Check Doneness: Ensure the ribs reach an internal temperature of at least 145°F (63°C) for safe consumption.
Double the Sauce: If you like extra glaze, double the marinade ingredients and set some aside before marinating the ribs. Warm the reserved sauce and drizzle over the cooked ribs.
How to Serve Honey Garlic Ribs
To serve Honey Garlic Ribs, place them on a large platter for a family-style presentation. Sprinkle with freshly chopped parsley or green onions for a pop of color. Serve alongside dipping sauces like spicy sriracha mayo or extra honey-soy glaze for added flavor.
Serving Suggestions
Classic Pairings: Serve with creamy mashed potatoes and roasted vegetables for a hearty meal.
Asian-Inspired Meal: Pair with steamed jasmine rice, stir-fried greens, and a side of kimchi for an Asian twist.
Game-Day Spread: Complement with coleslaw, cornbread, and potato wedges for a casual and satisfying feast.
Light Options: Accompany with a fresh garden salad or cucumber-yogurt dip to balance the rich flavors.
Time Breakdown
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 1 hour
Rest Time: 5 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
- Calories: 480
- Protein: 25g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fat: 35g
- Sodium: 700mg
- Sugar: 10g
Honey Garlic Ribs deliver bold flavors, tender meat, and a sticky glaze that’s simply irresistible. Whether served as a main course or a crowd-pleasing appetizer, this recipe is perfect for any occasion. Its balance of sweet, savory, and tangy notes makes it a standout dish that’ll have everyone asking for seconds.
