Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon
Easy Grilled Honey-Garlic Ribs Recipe

Easy Grilled Honey-Garlic Ribs Recipe


5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

4.8 from 36 reviews

  • Total Time: 1 hour 40 minutes
  • Yield: 4 1x

Description

Juicy honey-garlic ribs bring sizzling summer barbecue magic to backyard gatherings with irresistible flavor. Succulent meat glazed in sweet-savory marinade promises delightful dining pleasure you won’t stop craving.


Ingredients

Scale

Main Proteins:

  • 2 racks (about 4 lbs or 1.8 kg) baby back ribs or St. Louis-style ribs

Dry Seasoning Blend:

  • 1 tablespoon salt
  • 1 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)

Sauce and Flavor Enhancers:

  • ½ cup (120 ml) honey
  • ¼ cup (60 ml) soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tablespoons ketchup
  • 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar (or rice vinegar)
  • 1 teaspoon sesame oil (optional, for depth)
  • ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for spice)

Instructions

  1. Meticulously strip the protective membrane from the back of the ribs using a paper towel for better grip, revealing the meat’s surface. Massage a robust blend of seasonings into both sides, ensuring comprehensive coverage with salt, black pepper, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and a whisper of cayenne for subtle heat.
  2. Enhance rib tenderness through preliminary cooking techniques. Encase the seasoned ribs in aluminum foil, transforming them in a low-temperature oven at 300F (150C) for two hours. Alternatively, gently simmer the ribs in a capacious pot of water for one hour, then carefully drain, preparing them for subsequent grilling.
  3. Craft a luxurious honey-garlic glaze by combining golden honey, umami-rich soy sauce, minced garlic, tangy ketchup, sharp vinegar, fragrant sesame oil, and fiery red pepper flakes. Allow the mixture to gently simmer over medium heat, stirring consistently until the sauce transforms into a glossy, slightly thickened elixir.
  4. Ignite the grill to a medium temperature range between 350-375F, creating an ideal cooking environment. Position the ribs bone-side down, allowing them to develop a beautiful char during an initial 10-15 minute grilling session. Rotate periodically to ensure even cooking.
  5. As the ribs approach perfection, lavishly brush the honey-garlic glaze across their surface. Continue grilling for an additional 5-10 minutes, frequently turning and basting until the exterior caramelizes into a glistening, deeply flavored crust that promises an extraordinary culinary experience.

Notes

  • Tenderize ribs completely by removing the silvery membrane, which can make meat tough and prevent seasonings from penetrating deeply.
  • Pre-cooking methods like boiling or oven-wrapping help break down connective tissues, guaranteeing melt-in-your-mouth texture without drying out the meat.
  • Adjust spice levels by reducing or increasing cayenne and red pepper flakes, making the recipe adaptable for mild or heat-loving palates.
  • Create a gluten-free version by substituting regular soy sauce with tamari or coconut aminos, ensuring everyone can enjoy these delicious ribs.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
  • Category: Dinner, Appetizer
  • Method: Grilling
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 4
  • Calories: 450
  • Sugar: 14 g
  • Sodium: 800 mg
  • Fat: 25 g
  • Saturated Fat: 9 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 12 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 30 g
  • Fiber: 0 g
  • Protein: 28 g
  • Cholesterol: 90 mg