When the craving for something delicious hits, it often leads us on a culinary adventure. That’s exactly how I ended up crafting these Sweet and Sticky Asian BBQ Spare Ribs. The moment you pull those tender, juicy ribs from the oven, the tantalizing aroma of garlic and ginger wafts through the air, making it impossible to resist. Picture this: a chaotic weeknight wraps up, and all I want is comfort food that doesn’t take all evening to prepare.
This one-pan recipe combines the rich flavors of molasses, low-sodium soy sauce, and barbecue sauce to create a sticky glaze that will have your taste buds dancing. Not only is it incredibly easy to whip together, but it also impresses anyone gathered at your table. Whether you’re hosting a family dinner or simply treating yourself, these ribs are versatile and perfect for any occasion. Join me as we dive into a recipe that will have you savoring every delicious bite!
Why will Asian BBQ Spare Ribs become your favorite?
Flavor Explosion: The blend of molasses, soy sauce, and ginger creates a sticky, sweet glaze that elevates your typical BBQ.
One-Pan Wonder: Easy cleanup awaits as this simple recipe cooks everything in one pan, saving you time and hassle.
Crowd-Pleasing Dish: Perfect for entertaining or a cozy family dinner, these ribs are sure to be a hit with guests and loved ones alike.
Versatile Recipe: Feel free to swap pork for beef and adjust flavors to suit your taste, making it adaptable for any occasion.
Tender & Juicy: The slow simmer ensures the meat is fall-off-the-bone tender, leaving everyone craving more.
Enjoy these Asian BBQ Spare Ribs as a delightful treat that’s both easy and unforgettable!
Asian BBQ Spare Ribs Ingredients
Here’s everything you need for your delicious Asian BBQ Spare Ribs!
For the Ribs
• Spare Ribs – Choose pork for the ultimate tenderness, but beef ribs are also an excellent option for added richness.
• Water – Essential for creating the flavorful sauce base; no need for substitutions.
For the Sauce
• Sugar – Adds the perfect hint of sweetness; light brown sugar works well if you’re looking for a substitute.
• Low-Sodium Soy Sauce – Delivers umami flavor without excessive saltiness; regular soy sauce can be adjusted to taste.
• Molasses – Provides depth and richness; light or dark molasses is preferred, but honey can be a quick substitute.
• Barbecue Sauce – Use your favorite bottled or homemade sauce for added complexity and sweetness.
• Garlic – Finely minced for even distribution of flavor.
• Fresh Ginger – Grated to infuse a warm, aromatic quality; ground ginger can be used if fresh isn’t available.
• Rice Vinegar – Adds a touch of acidity to balance the flavors; apple cider vinegar can work as a substitute.
• Dry Mustard – Enhances the tanginess; mustard powder can replace it if necessary.
• Onion Powder & Ground Black Pepper – Season to your liking for deeper flavor.
For Thickening the Sauce
• Cornstarch & Water – Create a slurry to thicken your sauce; flour or arrowroot can be used as alternatives.
For Garnish
• Parsley – A sprinkle for garnishing to add a pop of color and freshness to the dish.
Get ready to savor the delightful tastes of these Asian BBQ Spare Ribs!
How to Make Asian BBQ Spare Ribs
-
Prepare Sauce: In a large Dutch oven, combine all sauce ingredients—sugar, low-sodium soy sauce, molasses, barbecue sauce, minced garlic, grated ginger, rice vinegar, dry mustard, onion powder, and pepper. Heat over medium until warm, allowing the flavors to meld together beautifully.
-
Prepare Ribs: Rinse the spare ribs under cold water, ensuring no bone fragments remain. Place the ribs into the pot with the sauce, coating them well to infuse the delicious flavors.
-
Boil: Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, paying attention to skim off any foam that rises to the top. This step helps keep your sauce clear and clean-tasting.
-
Simmer: Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let it simmer for an hour. Remember to stir occasionally, around the 30 and 45-minute marks, to ensure even cooking.
-
Thicken Sauce: Mix cornstarch and water to create a slurry, then add it to the pot. Stir thoroughly and cook until the sauce reaches your desired thickness—smooth and glossy is what you’re aiming for!
-
Rest & Serve: Turn off the heat and let the ribs rest uncovered for 5 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute. Plate the ribs and garnish with parsley for a touch of color before serving.
Optional: Serve with a sprinkle of sesame seeds for an added touch of flair!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Expert Tips for Asian BBQ Spare Ribs
- Rinse Properly: Always rinse spare ribs under cold water to remove any bone fragments. This ensures a clean and enjoyable eating experience.
- Monitor Simmering: Keep a close eye on your ribs while they simmer. Adjust the heat to prevent boiling over, ensuring a controlled cooking process.
- Taste and Adjust: Don’t forget to taste the sauce before serving! This allows you to adjust seasoning to your personal preference for the best Asian BBQ Spare Ribs experience.
- Thickening Tip: If you prefer a thicker sauce, gradually add more cornstarch slurry while cooking until you achieve your desired consistency.
- Flavor Variations: Feel free to experiment with additional spices or sauces. A dash of sriracha can add a delightful kick to your Asian BBQ!
What to Serve with Asian BBQ Spare Ribs?
When pairing your tender, sticky ribs, consider sides that complement their rich, sweet flavors and add freshness to your meal.
-
Soy Sesame Bok Choy: This crisp side offers a refreshing contrast, with its light sesame dressing balancing the sweetness of the ribs.
-
Coconut Rice: Soft and fragrant, coconut rice adds a tropical twist and acts as the perfect canvas for the rich glaze of the ribs.
-
Bean Sprout Salad: A vibrant, crunchy salad with a zesty vinaigrette brightens the palate, providing a fresh counterpoint to the savory meat.
-
Grilled Corn on the Cob: The sweetness of charred corn enhances the BBQ experience, wrapping everything up in a delightful summer flavor.
-
Classic Potato Salad: Creamy and mild, this all-time favorite adds comfort alongside the sticky ribs, ensuring everyone leaves satisfied.
-
Iced Green Tea: Refreshing and herbaceous, iced green tea quenches thirst and complements the Asian flavors beautifully.
-
Honeydew and Cucumber Salad: This light and juicy side dish offers a refreshing contrast, elevating your meal with its crisp texture.
Consider any of these side options to create a delightful spread that’ll impress your family and friends!
Make Ahead Options
These Asian BBQ Spare Ribs are perfect for meal prep, saving you time on busy weeknights! You can prepare the sauce and coat the ribs up to 24 hours in advance, storing them in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain their rich flavors. Simply follow the sauce preparation steps, then refrigerate. On the day you plan to serve, bring the cooled ribs and sauce to room temperature, reheat gently in a Dutch oven over low heat until warmed through, and continue with the simmering and thickening steps. This method ensures the ribs are just as tender and delicious, allowing you to enjoy a fantastic meal without the last-minute rush!
How to Store and Freeze Asian BBQ Spare Ribs
- Fridge: Store leftover Asian BBQ Spare Ribs in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Make sure they’re completely cooled before sealing to maintain freshness.
- Freezer: If you’re planning to enjoy them later, freeze the ribs in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. Ensure they’re well-wrapped to prevent freezer burn.
- Reheating: To reheat, place the ribs in an oven preheated to 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes, or until heated through. This method helps retain their sticky glaze and juiciness.
- Thawing: When ready to enjoy frozen ribs, thaw them overnight in the fridge for best results, or use the microwave on a defrost setting if time is short.
Asian BBQ Spare Ribs Variations
Feel free to explore these delicious tweaks to make this recipe your own!
-
Beef Swap: Substitute pork ribs with beef ribs for a richer flavor. Just adjust the cooking time for tenderness.
-
Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes or a splash of sriracha for an extra layer of heat in the sauce. Your taste buds will thank you!
-
Honey Replacement: Use honey instead of molasses for a lighter sweetness that still delivers a sticky finish.
-
Vegetarian Option: Try using grilled eggplant or portobello mushrooms as a hearty, plant-based alternative to ribs, paired with the same sauce for flavor.
-
Citrus Zing: Incorporate a squeeze of fresh lime or lemon juice at the end to brighten up the rich flavors and add a zesty twist.
-
Sweet & Sour Twist: Mix in a bit of pineapple juice for a refreshing sweetness that complements the savory elements perfectly.
-
Herby Finish: Switch out parsley for fresh cilantro or green onions as a bright, flavorful garnish for a new taste sensation.
-
Smoky Flavor: For an added depth, sprinkle a bit of smoked paprika in the sauce to introduce a delightful smokiness that enhances the BBQ experience.
Each of these variations allows you to customize your Asian BBQ Spare Ribs experience while keeping the essence of this delightful dish!
Asian BBQ Spare Ribs Recipe FAQs
What type of ribs should I use?
I recommend using pork spare ribs for their tenderness and flavor, but beef ribs are also a fantastic option if you prefer a richer taste. Just remember that cooking times may vary slightly with beef.
How should I store leftover Asian BBQ Spare Ribs?
Store leftover ribs in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Make sure the ribs are completely cooled before sealing, to maintain their freshness and avoid any moisture buildup inside the container.
Can I freeze Asian BBQ Spare Ribs, and if so, how?
Absolutely! To freeze, place the cooled ribs in a freezer-safe bag or container. I recommend double-wrapping them in plastic wrap first to prevent freezer burn. They can be safely stored for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply thaw overnight in the fridge for best results.
How do I reheat my Asian BBQ Spare Ribs without drying them out?
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the ribs on a baking sheet and cover them loosely with aluminum foil to retain moisture. Heat for about 15-20 minutes or until they are heated through. This method helps maintain their sticky glaze and juicy texture.
Are there any dietary considerations I should keep in mind?
If you have dietary restrictions, be aware that this recipe contains soy sauce, which can be high in sodium. For gluten-free options, use tamari instead of soy sauce. Additionally, check for any allergies to the other ingredients such as sesame if you decide to garnish with it.
What should I do if the sauce is too thick?
If your sauce turns out too thick, simply add a little water or reserved cooking liquid gradually while stirring, until you reach your desired consistency. On the flip side, if it’s too thin, let it simmer a bit longer to thicken up. Enjoy adjusting the flavors to your liking!
Savory Asian BBQ Spare Ribs That Will Wow Your Dinner Guests
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a large Dutch oven, combine all sauce ingredients—sugar, low-sodium soy sauce, molasses, barbecue sauce, minced garlic, grated ginger, rice vinegar, dry mustard, onion powder, and pepper. Heat over medium until warm.
- Rinse the spare ribs under cold water, ensuring no bone fragments remain. Place the ribs into the pot with the sauce.
- Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, skimming off any foam that rises.
- Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and simmer for an hour, stirring occasionally.
- Mix cornstarch and water to create a slurry, then add it to the pot, stirring until the sauce thickens.
- Turn off the heat and let the ribs rest uncovered for 5 minutes. Garnish with parsley before serving.