Garlic Ribs – A Flavor-Packed Delight
If you’re craving something juicy, garlicky, and packed with umami goodness, these garlic ribs are the perfect dish. Marinated in a blend of soy sauce, honey, and garlic, then slow-cooked to perfection, these ribs turn out tender, caramelized, and utterly delicious. Whether served with rice, noodles, or enjoyed on their own, they’re sure to be a hit at the dinner table.
Ingredients:
- 2 lbs (1 kg) pork ribs
- 6-8 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1/4 cup (60 ml) soy sauce
- 2 tbsp honey or brown sugar
- 2 tbsp rice vinegar or lemon juice
- 1 tbsp oyster sauce (optional)
- 1 tsp sesame oil
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp chili flakes (optional, for spice)
- 1 tbsp vegetable oil (for cooking)
- Fresh parsley or green onions (for garnish)
Preparation:
1. Prepare the Ribs:
- Rinse the ribs and pat them dry.
- Cut into individual pieces or smaller sections for easier cooking.
2. Marinate the Ribs:
- In a large bowl, mix soy sauce, honey (or sugar), rice vinegar, oyster sauce, sesame oil, black pepper, and half of the minced garlic.
- Add the ribs and coat them well. Let marinate for at least 30 minutes (or up to 4 hours) in the fridge.
3. Cook the Ribs:
- Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add vegetable oil.
- Place the marinated ribs in the pan (reserve the marinade) and sear for 2-3 minutes per side until browned.
4. Add Garlic and Sauce:
- Lower the heat to medium and add the remaining minced garlic. Stir for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Pour in the reserved marinade and a splash of water. Cover the pan and simmer for 20-25 minutes, turning occasionally. Add water if needed.
5. Caramelize the Sauce:
- Remove the lid and let the sauce thicken. Increase the heat slightly, allowing the ribs to become sticky and well-coated.
6. Serve:
- Garnish with chopped parsley or green onions.
- Serve hot with steamed rice, noodles, or a side of vegetables.
Mistakes to Avoid:
- Skipping the marination – The longer the ribs marinate, the more flavorful they become. Try for at least 30 minutes.
- Not searing properly – Searing locks in flavor and gives the ribs a nice crust. Don’t rush this step.
- Using too much heat while simmering – Keep the heat medium-low to avoid drying out the ribs.
- Not reducing the sauce enough – Let the sauce caramelize for a delicious, sticky coating.
FAQ:
Can I use beef ribs instead of pork?
Yes. Beef ribs work well, but they may take a little longer to cook for tenderness.
Can I make this in an air fryer?
Yes. Air fry the marinated ribs at 375°F (190°C) for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway.
What sides go well with garlic ribs?
Steamed rice, stir-fried veggies, or a fresh salad complement the flavors perfectly.
How do I store leftovers?
Keep them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in a pan over low heat.
Conclusion:
These garlic ribs are the ultimate comfort food—sweet, savory, garlicky, and incredibly tender. Whether you’re making them for a casual dinner or a special occasion, they’ll always be a crowd-pleaser. Try them out and let me know how they turn out.