1. Prepare the Ribs:
- Preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C).
- Remove the membrane from the back of the ribs (if it’s still attached) for better seasoning penetration.
- Season the ribs generously with salt and pepper on both sides.
- In a large oven-safe skillet or roasting pan, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Sear the ribs on both sides until golden brown, about 3-4 minutes per side. Remove the ribs and set aside.
2. Making the Honey Garlic Sauce:
- In the same skillet or a saucepan, combine the honey, minced garlic, soy sauce, vinegar, sesame oil, and ground ginger. Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat, stirring occasionally.
- Add the cornstarch slurry to the sauce, stirring continuously until the sauce thickens, about 1-2 minutes. Remove from heat.
3. Bake the Ribs:
- Place the ribs back in the skillet or in a baking dish. Pour the water around the ribs, then generously brush the honey garlic sauce over the ribs.
- Cover the skillet or baking dish tightly with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for about 2 hours, or until the meat is tender and falls off the bone.
4. Finish Under the Broiler:
- Once the ribs are tender, remove the foil and brush another layer of the honey garlic sauce on the ribs.
- Turn on the broiler and place the ribs under it for 3-5 minutes, or until the sauce is bubbly and starting to caramelize. Watch them closely to prevent burning.
5. Serve:
- Let the ribs rest for a few minutes before cutting into individual portions.
- Serve hot, garnished with sesame seeds and chopped green onions if desired.
Serving Suggestions:
Enjoy these Honey Garlic Ribs with a side of steamed rice, fresh vegetables, or a simple salad to balance out the sweetness of the sauce. They’re perfect for a cozy night in or for impressing guests at a dinner party.
The key to this recipe is the slow cooking process, which ensures that the ribs are perfectly tender, and the final broil, which caramelizes the sauce, adding a rich depth of flavor and texture. Enjoy the delicious combination of honey and garlic that makes these ribs unforgettable.