Tender Glazed Pork Ribs

Pork ribs are a timeless favorite when it comes to indulgent, savory dishes that combine crispy, caramelized exteriors with juicy, tender interiors. This recipe for Tender Glazed Pork Ribs will guide you through making fall-off-the-bone ribs with a rich, flavorful glaze. Combining savory, sweet, and tangy flavors from ketchup, soy sauce, mustard, honey, and a dash of Worcestershire sauce, the glaze adds a delicious finish to the perfectly roasted ribs. With a simple preparation process, these ribs are ideal for a family dinner, a weekend treat, or a special gathering. The result is an irresistibly tender, juicy, and flavorful meal that everyone will love.

Full Recipe:

Ingredients:

For the Pork Ribs:

  • Pork ribs – 1.5 kg
  • Salt – 1.5 teaspoons (to taste)
  • Black ground pepper – To taste
  • Dried garlic – To taste

For the Glaze:

  • Ketchup – 4 tablespoons
  • Soy sauce – 4 tablespoons
  • Honey – 1 teaspoon
  • Mustard – 1 tablespoon
  • Worcestershire sauce (optional) – 1-2 tablespoons

Step-by-Step Instructions:

Step 1: Season the Pork Ribs

  1. Prepare the Ribs: Begin by patting the pork ribs dry with a paper towel. This helps the seasoning stick to the meat better.
  2. Season the Meat: Rub 1.5 teaspoons of salt all over the ribs. Add black ground pepper to taste, and sprinkle dried garlic generously over the ribs, rubbing it in to ensure even distribution of flavor.

Step 2: Bake the Ribs

  1. Initial Roasting: Preheat your oven to 200°C (390°F). Place the seasoned ribs on a wire rack with a baking tray beneath to catch any drippings. Roast the ribs in the oven for 1 hour. This will give the ribs a nice, browned exterior.
  2. Second Baking: After the first hour, carefully remove the ribs from the oven. Wrap them tightly in two layers of foil to lock in moisture. Return the ribs to the oven and continue baking for an additional 1 hour and 15 minutes at 200°C (390°F). Wrapping the ribs in foil helps to tenderize the meat, making it soft and juicy.

Step 3: Prepare the Glaze

  1. Mix the Glaze Ingredients: While the ribs are baking, prepare the glaze. In a small saucepan, combine 4 tablespoons of ketchup, 4 tablespoons of soy sauce, 1 teaspoon of honey, 1 tablespoon of mustard, and 1-2 tablespoons of Worcestershire sauce (if available).
  2. Cook the Glaze: Bring the mixture to a boil over medium heat, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for about 5 minutes. Stir occasionally to ensure everything is well combined and the glaze thickens slightly.

Step 4: Glaze and Final Bake

  1. Unwrap and Glaze the Ribs: After the ribs have finished their second round of baking in the foil, remove them from the oven and carefully unwrap the foil. Be cautious of any steam. Brush the ribs generously with the prepared glaze on both sides, ensuring they are well coated.
  2. Final Bake: Increase the oven temperature to 220°C (430°F) and return the glazed ribs to the oven (uncovered). Bake for an additional 10-15 minutes until the glaze becomes sticky, glossy, and caramelized. Keep a close eye to avoid burning the glaze.

Step 5: Serve the Ribs

  1. Rest the Ribs: Once fully cooked, let the ribs rest for about 5 minutes before cutting them into individual portions. This helps retain the juices.
  2. Garnish and Serve: Garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or serve with lemon wedges for an extra burst of flavor. These ribs pair beautifully with mashed potatoes, coleslaw, roasted vegetables, or even a fresh green salad.

Cooking Tips:

  • Slow Cooking for Extra Tenderness: If you have more time and want even more tender ribs, you can lower the oven temperature to 160°C (320°F) and extend the second bake (in foil) to 2.5-3 hours. This slow cooking method will make the meat fall off the bone.
  • Grill Option: For an added smoky flavor, you can finish the ribs on the grill instead of the oven during the final 10-15 minutes after glazing. Grill them over medium heat for that perfect char.
  • Adjust the Spice: If you like your ribs spicier, feel free to add some chili flakes or cayenne pepper to the glaze mixture.

Storage:

  • Refrigeration: Store any leftover ribs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat them in the oven or microwave, ensuring that the glaze doesn’t burn during reheating.
  • Freezing: You can freeze the cooked ribs by wrapping them tightly in foil or plastic wrap, then placing them in a freezer-safe container. They will last for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

Nutritional Facts (Per Serving, Based on 6 Servings):

  • Calories: 450-500 kcal
  • Protein: 30g
  • Fat: 35g
  • Carbohydrates: 8g
  • Sugar: 5g
  • Sodium: 1000mg

This dish is protein-packed thanks to the pork ribs and also contains a fair amount of fats, primarily from the meat. The glaze adds a slight sweetness, but overall, it remains a savory dish with moderate carbohydrates. It’s important to note that sodium levels may vary depending on how much soy sauce and seasoning you use.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):

1. Can I make the ribs without foil? Wrapping the ribs in foil is essential for locking in moisture and making the meat tender. Without foil, the ribs may dry out during the second bake. However, you can use a tightly covered roasting pan as an alternative.

2. Can I use a different type of meat for this recipe? Yes, you can use beef ribs or even chicken for a similar effect. Just adjust the cooking times accordingly. Beef ribs may take longer to cook, while chicken will require less time.

3. Can I make the glaze spicier? Absolutely! You can add chili sauce, sriracha, or red pepper flakes to the glaze for an extra kick.

4. What should I serve with these ribs? These ribs pair well with classic sides like mashed potatoes, grilled vegetables, coleslaw, or a fresh salad. You can also serve them with cornbread or French fries for a more indulgent meal.

5. How do I know when the ribs are done? The ribs should be tender and the internal temperature should reach 75°C (165°F). The meat should easily pull away from the bone, and the glaze should be sticky and caramelized on top.

6. Can I prepare the ribs ahead of time? Yes, you can season the ribs and let them marinate in the fridge for a few hours or overnight. You can also bake them ahead of time and apply the glaze just before the final bake.

Conclusion:

These Tender Glazed Pork Ribs are the perfect combination of savory and sweet, with a smoky, slightly caramelized finish that will have everyone asking for seconds. By slow-roasting the ribs and then applying a flavorful glaze, you get a dish that is full of tender, juicy meat with a delightful outer crispiness. Whether you’re preparing them for a family dinner or a special occasion, these ribs are sure to impress. The recipe is simple yet satisfying, and with the right techniques, you can make restaurant-quality ribs at home. Enjoy this flavorful dish with your favorite sides, and let the compliments roll in!