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Sticky Smoked Pork Ribs

These pork ribs are slow-cooked until tender and coated in a sweet, smoky glaze that caramelizes into a sticky, crackly crust. The process involves slow baking and finishing with a quick broil to achieve a luscious, flavorful exterior while keeping the meat juicy and falling-off-the-bone tender. Perfect for hands-on, rustic comfort food that’s as satisfying to eat as it is to prepare.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 3 hours
Total Time 3 hours 15 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American BBQ
Calories: 620

Ingredients
  

  • 2 kg pork ribs (baby back or spare ribs) preferably with good marbling
  • 1/2 cup dark brown sugar for deep caramelization
  • 1/4 cup soy sauce or coconut aminos for gluten-free
  • 4 cloves garlic minced
  • 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar brightens the glaze
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika adds smoky depth
  • 2 tablespoons honey for gloss and sweetness

Equipment

  • Large roasting pan or baking sheet
  • Wire rack
  • Basting brush
  • Sharp knife or paper towel
  • Aluminum foil

Method
 

  1. Preheat your oven to 150°C (300°F). Pat the ribs dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture, which helps the glaze stick better.
  2. Carefully slide a sharp knife or use a paper towel to remove the thin membrane from the back of the ribs; this step ensures the meat becomes tender and melts in your mouth.
  3. In a bowl, whisk together dark brown sugar, soy sauce, minced garlic, apple cider vinegar, smoked paprika, and honey until the mixture is smooth and fragrant.
  4. Place the ribs on a wire rack set over a baking sheet, then generously brush the glaze onto all sides of the ribs, making sure every nook and cranny is coated evenly.
  5. Slide the pan into the oven and bake uncovered for about 2.5 to 3 hours. Every 30 minutes, remove the ribs, reapply the glaze with a basting brush, and turn them to build up a sticky, caramelized surface.
  6. Once the meat is tender and pulling away from the bones, turn on the broiler for 3–5 minutes to create a crackly, glossy crust. Keep a close eye to prevent burning—they should shimmer with a sticky glaze.
  7. Remove the ribs from the oven and tent loosely with foil. Let them rest for 10 minutes, allowing the juices to redistribute and the glaze to set into a shiny, crackly crust.
  8. Finally, tear into the ribs with your hands, enjoying the sticky, smoky bites that crackle as you chew. Serve immediately with your favorite sides and savor the rich, layered flavors.