ADVERTISEMENT
Here’s a polished article for your Tender, Sticky Ribs recipe that you can use on a food blog, magazine, or website:
Tender, Sticky Ribs: A Fall-Off-the-Bone Favorite
Few things capture the essence of comfort food like a rack of tender, sticky ribs. Whether you’re hosting a weekend barbecue, planning a cozy family dinner, or just craving some finger-licking goodness, this rib recipe delivers flavor and texture that will have everyone asking for seconds.
Why These Ribs Work
The magic lies in the balance of low-and-slow cooking, a flavorful dry rub, and a sticky glaze that caramelizes to perfection. The ribs are first seasoned and slow-roasted (or optionally smoked) to develop that melt-in-your-mouth tenderness. Then they’re basted in a sweet, tangy, and slightly spicy sauce that clings to every bite, creating that irresistible sticky finish.
Ingredients
For the Dry Rub:
- 2 tbsp brown sugar
- 1 tbsp smoked paprika
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp salt
- ½ tsp cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
For the Sticky Sauce:
- ½ cup honey or maple syrup
- ¼ cup soy sauce
- ¼ cup ketchup
- 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar
- 2 tbsp brown sugar
- 1 tsp grated fresh ginger
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tsp chili flakes (optional)
Ribs:
- 2 racks of baby back ribs (or pork spare ribs)
- Olive oil for rubbing
Instructions
1. Prepare the Ribs:
Remove the silver skin membrane from the back of the ribs. Pat them dry and rub lightly with olive oil.
2. Apply the Dry Rub:
Combine all dry rub ingredients in a bowl. Generously coat both sides of the ribs with the rub, pressing it into the meat. Let the ribs marinate for at least 1 hour—or overnight in the fridge for deeper flavor.
3. Slow Roast (or Smoke):
Preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C). Place ribs on a baking tray lined with foil and cover with another sheet of foil to seal. Bake for 2.5 to 3 hours, until the meat is very tender.
4. Make the Sticky Sauce:
While the ribs are cooking, combine all sauce ingredients in a saucepan. Simmer over medium heat until slightly thickened, about 10–15 minutes.
5. Glaze and Finish:
Preheat your grill or oven broiler. Brush the ribs generously with the sticky sauce and grill or broil for 5–10 minutes, turning once and basting again, until caramelized and sticky.
