Ingredients:

• 2 Pork Ribs: Choose well-marbled pork ribs for the best flavor and tenderness.
• ½ Cup (120 ml) Hoisin Sauce: Adds a sweet and savory depth to the glaze.
• ¼ Cup (60 ml) Soy Sauce: Provides saltiness and umami flavor.
• ¼ Cup (60 ml) Honey: Sweetens the glaze and helps it caramelize.
• ¼ Cup (60 ml) Rice Vinegar: Balances the sweetness with a touch of acidity.
• 2 tbsp Sesame Oil: Adds a nutty flavor and helps in caramelization.
• 4 Cloves Garlic, Grated: Infuses the glaze with aromatic and robust garlic flavor.
• 1 tbsp Grated Ginger: Offers a fresh and zesty kick.
• 1 tsp Chinese Five-Spice Powder: Adds a unique blend of spices, including star anise, cloves, and cinnamon.
• Sesame Seeds: For garnish and added texture.

Instructions:

1. Preheat Your Oven:
   • Preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C). This low and slow cooking method will help the ribs become tender and flavorful.
2. Prepare the Marinade:
   • In a medium bowl, mix together the hoisin sauce, soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, sesame oil, grated garlic, grated ginger, and Chinese five-spice powder. Whisk until well combined and smooth.
3. Prepare the Ribs:
   • Pat the pork ribs dry with paper towels to remove any excess moisture. This will help the marinade adhere better to the meat. If needed, remove the thin membrane from the back of the ribs for a more tender result.
4. Marinate the Ribs:
   • Place the ribs in a large resealable plastic bag or a shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the ribs, ensuring they are evenly coated. Seal the bag or cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or preferably overnight for the best flavor.
5. Bake the Ribs:
   • Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil and place a wire rack on top. Arrange the marinated ribs on the rack. This allows the heat to circulate around the ribs and helps them cook evenly.
   • Bake in the preheated oven for about 2.5 to 3 hours, or until the meat is tender and easily pulls away from the bone. Baste the ribs with additional marinade every 30 minutes for extra flavor and stickiness.
6. Caramelize the Glaze:
   • For a caramelized finish, increase the oven temperature to 425°F (220°C) during the last 15-20 minutes of baking. Keep a close eye on the ribs to prevent burning, and brush with the remaining marinade to enhance the stickiness.
7. Serve:
   • Remove the ribs from the oven and let them rest for a few minutes. Garnish with sesame seeds before serving. For an extra touch, you can sprinkle chopped green onions or fresh cilantro.

FAQs:

Q: Can I use a different type of ribs?
A: Yes, you can use baby back ribs or spare ribs if you prefer. Adjust the cooking time if using a different cut.

Q: Can I cook these ribs on the grill?
A: Absolutely! After marinating, you can grill the ribs over medium heat, basting with the marinade and turning frequently until they are cooked through and have a nice char.

Q: How can I make the ribs spicier?
A: To add heat, include some red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the marinade.

Q: Can I prepare the ribs in advance?
A: Yes, you can marinate the ribs up to 2 days in advance and refrigerate. Cook them on the day you plan to serve for the best results.

Nutrition Facts (per serving, based on 4 servings):

• Calories: 480
• Protein: 28g
• Carbohydrates: 30g
• Fat: 28g
• Fiber: 1g
• Sugars: 22g
• Sodium: 1,000mg

Storage Tips:

• Refrigeration: Store leftover ribs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
• Freezing: To freeze, wrap the cooked ribs tightly in aluminum foil or plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.

Cooking Tips:

• Marinate Overnight: For the most flavorful and tender ribs, marinate them overnight. This allows the flavors to penetrate the meat more deeply.
• Monitor the Cooking: If baking at higher temperatures to caramelize the glaze, watch closely to avoid burning. Baste frequently to maintain moisture and enhance the sticky glaze.

Conclusion:

These Sticky Asian Pork Ribs are a delectable treat that’s sure to become a favorite at your table. With their savory-sweet glaze and tender meat, they offer a perfect balance of flavors and textures. Whether served as a main dish or part of a festive meal, these ribs are sure to impress with their irresistible taste and sticky, caramelized finish. Enjoy every flavorful bite of this crowd-pleasing recipe!