These easy soy honey glazed pork ribs are sticky, sweet, and super tasty! With a simple mix of soy sauce and honey, they’re perfect for a family dinner or a fun barbecue.
I love how the glaze gets all caramelized while cooking. It’s the best part! Just pop them in the oven and let the delicious smells fill your kitchen. You’re going to enjoy every bite!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Ribs: You can choose between baby back or spare ribs. Baby back ribs are leaner, while spare ribs are meatier. If you want a leaner option, pork tenderloin or chicken wings can be good substitutes.
Soy Sauce: This gives the ribs their savory flavor. You can use low-sodium soy sauce if you’re watching salt intake. For a gluten-free version, try tamari instead.
Honey: Honey adds the sweetness that balances the soy. Maple syrup or agave nectar can work well as a substitute if you’re looking for alternatives.
Garlic: Fresh garlic is always best for flavor. If you don’t have fresh, you can use garlic powder (about 1/4 teaspoon per clove).
Rice Vinegar: This gives a slight tang. If you don’t have it, distilled white vinegar or apple cider vinegar works too, just use a little less as they are stronger.
Fresh Ginger: While optional, it provides a nice warmth to the dish. If you don’t have fresh ginger, ground ginger can be a backup (about 1/4 teaspoon for every teaspoon of fresh).
How Do I Ensure My Ribs Are Tender and Delicious?
The key to tender ribs is cooking them low and slow. Baking them at 300°F allows the meat to become tender without drying out. Make sure to cover the ribs tightly with foil during baking to lock in moisture.
- Pat the ribs dry and season lightly to enhance flavor without overwhelming the sweetness from the glaze.
- When broiling, keep a close eye on them. They can go from nicely caramelized to burnt very quickly!
- Let the ribs rest after cooking. This helps the juices redistribute, keeping the meat juicy and flavorful.
Easy Soy Honey Glazed Pork Ribs
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- For the Ribs:
- 2 lbs pork ribs (baby back or spare ribs)
- For the Marinade:
- 1/3 cup soy sauce
- 1/3 cup honey
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar or distilled white vinegar
- 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger (optional)
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil or sesame oil
- For Serving:
- Fresh lime wedges
- Fresh cilantro or parsley for garnish (optional)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes of prep time, plus 2 to 2.5 hours for baking. You’ll also need about 5 minutes for broiling. So, set aside a total of about 2.5 to 3 hours for an incredibly delicious meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prepare:
Start by preheating your oven to 300°F (150°C). While the oven warms up, line a baking sheet with aluminum foil or parchment paper. This makes cleanup a breeze!
2. Whisk the Marinade:
In a medium-sized bowl, combine the soy sauce, honey, minced garlic, vinegar, and oil. If you’re using ginger, add that too! Whisk everything together until it’s well combined and smooth.
3. Prepare the Ribs:
Take a paper towel and pat the pork ribs dry. This helps the glaze stick better. Lightly season them with salt and black pepper, making sure to cover both sides.
4. Glaze the Ribs:
Place the ribs on the prepared baking sheet in a single layer. Don’t forget to set aside about 1/3 of the glaze for basting later. Use a brush to generously coat the ribs with the remaining glaze, covering all sides.
5. Bake the Ribs:
Cover the baking sheet tightly with foil and place it in the preheated oven. Let the ribs bake for about 2 to 2.5 hours, or until they become tender and easily pull apart.
6. Broil for Extra Flavor:
After baking, carefully remove the foil. Switch your oven to the broil setting on high. Brush the ribs again with the reserved glaze and broil for 3 to 5 minutes. Keep a close eye on them—you’re looking for a nice caramelized finish!
7. Rest and Serve:
Once broiled, take the ribs out and let them sit for a few minutes to rest. This makes the meat juicy and flavorful!
8. Garnish and Enjoy:
Transfer the ribs to a serving platter, garnishing with fresh cilantro or parsley, if you like. Serve with lime wedges on the side for a zesty kick. Enjoy your delicious soy honey glazed pork ribs!
This dish is perfect for family dinners or any festive occasion. Enjoy the sweet, sticky goodness!
FAQ for Easy Soy Honey Glazed Pork Ribs
Can I Use Different Types of Ribs?
Absolutely! You can use either baby back ribs or spare ribs. Baby back ribs are leaner and cook a bit faster, while spare ribs are meatier and require a longer cooking time. Both options will taste delicious with the soy honey glaze!
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the ribs up to the baking step and store them in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Just make sure to let them come to room temperature before baking. You can also cook them completely and reheat them later in the oven.
How Should I Store Leftover Ribs?
If you have leftovers, place them in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. To reheat, wrap them in foil and place them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through. This will help retain their moisture!
Can I Adjust the Sweetness of the Sauce?
Definitely! If you prefer a less sweet glaze, you can reduce the amount of honey or substitute half of it with a savory ingredient, such as more soy sauce or a splash of hoisin sauce. Taste the glaze before applying it to the ribs and adjust according to your preference.
