Sticky Honey Garlic Pork Ribs

Ingredients

3 pounds pork spareribs, cut into individual ribs or sections
1/4 cup soy sauce
2 tablespoons rice vinegar
2 tablespoons honey
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
1 teaspoon Chinese five-spice powder
1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
1/4 cup water
2 tablespoons vegetable oil
1 tablespoon sesame oil
Sesame seeds and chopped green onions, for garnish

 

Instructions

1. Begin by preparing the ribs. In a large bowl, combine the soy sauce, rice vinegar, honey, minced garlic, grated ginger, Chinese five-spice powder, and red pepper flakes (if using). (10 minutes)
2. Add the pork ribs to the marinade, ensuring they are well coated. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or preferably overnight for deeper flavor. (2 hours – overnight)
3. Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or foil. (10 minutes)
4. Remove the ribs from the marinade, reserving the marinade. Arrange the ribs in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. (5 minutes)
5. Bake the ribs for 1 hour and 30 minutes, uncovered. (1 hour 30 minutes)
6. While the ribs are baking, prepare the glaze. In a small saucepan, combine the reserved marinade and water. Bring to a simmer over medium heat and cook for 10-15 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened slightly. (15 minutes)
7. After the ribs have baked for 1 hour and 30 minutes, brush them generously with the thickened glaze. (5 minutes)
8. Increase the oven temperature to 375°F (190°C) and continue baking for another 15-20 minutes, or until the ribs are sticky and caramelized, brushing with glaze every 5 minutes. (15-20 minutes)
9. In a skillet, heat the vegetable oil and sesame oil over medium-high heat. Quickly sear the ribs for 1-2 minutes per side to enhance the crispness. (5 minutes)
10. Remove the ribs from the oven and let them rest for a few minutes before garnishing with sesame seeds and chopped green onions. (5 minutes)