These oven-baked Asian pork ribs are sticky, sweet, and super easy to make! Just a few simple ingredients bring out the amazing flavor.
Your kitchen will smell heavenly while they bake, making it hard to wait—trust me, I usually sneak a taste! 😄 Grab some napkins; you’ll need them!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Ribs: Baby back ribs are a great choice for being tender and meaty. If you can’t find them, spare ribs work well too, just cook a bit longer as they are a little tougher. If you’re looking for a healthier option, you might try turkey ribs, which can also absorb flavors nicely.
Soy Sauce: This is essential for umami flavor. For a gluten-free option, you can use tamari or coconut aminos. I prefer low-sodium soy sauce to keep the dish from being too salty.
Hoisin Sauce: This adds sweetness and depth. If you don’t have hoisin, a combination of soy sauce, peanut butter, and a bit of sugar can mimic its flavor. I sometimes mix in a touch of peanut butter for extra nuttiness!
Honey: It adds sweetness and helps with caramelization. Maple syrup or agave syrup can be great substitutes if you’re vegan or want to avoid honey. I often use a little less sweetener because the hoisin is also sweet.
Rice Vinegar: This adds acidity. If you don’t have any, apple cider vinegar will work in a pinch. Just remember, a bit less is better to avoid overpowering the dish!
What’s the Best Way to Get Tender Ribs?
The secret to tender oven-baked ribs is low and slow cooking! The initial baking at 300°F allows the meat to cook until tender while retaining moisture. Here’s how to nail that method:
- Start with the right temperature; keep it at 300°F (150°C) for the first phase.
- Cover the ribs tightly with aluminum foil. This traps steam, keeping them juicy.
- Check for tenderness before the end of cooking. You want them to be easily pulled apart with a fork!
After baking, increase the oven temperature to 400°F (200°C) to create a rich, glazed finish. Don’t rush this part; it adds a beautiful caramelized texture to your ribs!
How to Make Easy Oven Baked Asian Pork Ribs
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 to 3 pounds pork ribs (baby back or spare ribs)
- 1/3 cup soy sauce
- 1/4 cup hoisin sauce
- 1/4 cup honey
- 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons sesame oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
- 1 teaspoon sriracha or chili garlic sauce (optional, for heat)
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- Green onions, chopped (for garnish)
- Sesame seeds (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes of prep time, plus around 2.5 to 3 hours of baking time. The slow cooking makes the ribs super tender, and the extra time at a higher temperature helps to create a delicious glaze. Total time: about 3 hours and 15 minutes from start to finish.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
First things first, preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C). This low temperature helps the ribs cook slowly and become really tender.
2. Make the Marinade:
In a medium bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, hoisin sauce, honey, rice vinegar, brown sugar, sesame oil, minced garlic, grated ginger, sriracha (if you want some heat), and black pepper. Keep mixing until everything is blended well and looks smooth.
3. Prepare the Ribs:
Now, take your pork ribs and place them in a large baking dish or a rimmed baking sheet. Pour the marinade over the ribs, turning them to ensure they’re well coated. Be sure to cover the dish tightly with aluminum foil so the ribs can steam properly while cooking.
4. Bake the Ribs:
Put the covered ribs in your preheated oven and let them bake for about 2.5 to 3 hours. You’ll know they’re ready when they’re very tender. You might want to check a bit earlier to see how they’re doing!
5. Caramelize the Sauce:
Once the ribs are tender, carefully remove the foil and increase the oven temperature to 400°F (200°C). Brush the ribs with some of the marinade or a touch more honey, and bake them uncovered for an additional 15-20 minutes. This step will caramelize the sauce and give the ribs a lovely glaze.
6. Let Them Rest:
After baking, take the ribs out of the oven and let them rest for about 5 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, making for even tastier ribs!
7. Garnish and Serve:
Before serving, sprinkle chopped green onions and sesame seeds over the top for some extra flavor and crunch. Enjoy your deliciously flavorful, tender Asian pork ribs!
Happy eating!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Different Cuts of Ribs?
Yes! While baby back ribs and spare ribs are most common, you can use other cuts like St. Louis style ribs. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary slightly, so check for tenderness!
Can I Prepare and Marinate the Ribs Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can marinate the ribs in the sauce for up to 24 hours in the fridge, allowing the flavors to penetrate the meat even more. Just be sure to let them come to room temperature before baking.
What Should I Do with Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm them gently in the oven at 350°F (175°C) covered with foil to prevent drying out, or microwave them in short bursts until heated through.
Can I Make This Recipe Spicier?
Definitely! If you enjoy heat, you can add more sriracha or chili garlic sauce to the marinade, or incorporate crushed red pepper flakes for an extra kick. Adjust to your taste preferences!
