Honey Garlic Ribs

Honey Garlic Ribs are a sweet, savory, and sticky delight! The combination of honey and garlic creates a flavorful glaze that caramelizes beautifully on the ribs. Here’s a simple recipe for you to try:

Ingredients:

• 1 rack of baby back ribs (about 1.5 to 2 pounds)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 6 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 cup honey
• 1/4 cup soy sauce
• 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar (or lemon juice)
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard (optional for a bit of tang)
• 1 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional for a little heat)
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch (optional, for thickening)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Ribs: Preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C). Start by removing the membrane from the back of the ribs (this helps make the ribs more tender). Pat the ribs dry with paper towels, then season both sides generously with salt and pepper.

2. Cook the Ribs:

   • Option 1 (Oven method): Place the ribs on a baking sheet lined with aluminum foil and cover them with another piece of foil. Roast in the oven for 2.5 to 3 hours until the ribs are tender and cooked through.
   • Option 2 (Grill method): Preheat your grill to medium-low heat. Cook the ribs for about 2-3 hours, flipping occasionally, until tender.

3. Make the Honey Garlic Sauce: While the ribs are cooking, heat the olive oil in a small saucepan over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant (be careful not to burn it). Then, add the honey, soy sauce, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard (if using), and red pepper flakes (if using). Stir everything together.

4. Thicken the Sauce (Optional): If you like a thicker glaze, mix 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 1 tablespoon of water to create a slurry, then add it to the sauce. Stir constantly and simmer for another 2-3 minutes until the sauce thickens.

5. Glaze the Ribs: Once the ribs are tender and fully cooked, remove them from the oven or grill. Brush the honey garlic sauce all over the ribs, then return them to the heat for 5-10 minutes, either in the oven or on the grill, to allow the glaze to caramelize. You can also brush more sauce on the ribs during the last few minutes for extra flavor.

6. Serve: Once the ribs are nicely glazed and caramelized, remove them from the oven or grill. Let them rest for a few minutes before slicing. Serve with extra sauce on the side if you like.

Tips:

• For a smoky flavor, you can finish the ribs on the grill or add a bit of smoked paprika to the glaze.
• If you prefer a little more heat, increase the amount of red pepper flakes or even add some sriracha to the sauce.

These honey garlic ribs are sticky, tender, and totally addictive. Perfect for a summer BBQ or any time you want something really flavorful!

Would you like to add a side dish to go with the ribs? I’ve got some suggestions if you need them!