These Korean-style BBQ ribs are a beautiful balance of sweet, savory, and spicy flavors. The sticky glaze creates a mouthwatering shine, and the tender meat practically falls off the bone. Whether you serve them as a main course or at your next BBQ gathering, these ribs will steal the show.
This dish is perfect for any occasion where you want to impress your guests with something both delicious and visually stunning. The rich flavor of the gochujang and honey-based glaze will keep everyone coming back for more. Add a sprinkle of sesame seeds and green onions to complete the dish and elevate its appeal.
Full recipe:
Ingredients:
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2 racks of baby back ribs
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1/4 cup soy sauce
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1/4 cup brown sugar
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1/4 cup honey
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2 tablespoons rice vinegar
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2 tablespoons sesame oil
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4 cloves garlic, minced
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2 tablespoons grated ginger
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1 tablespoon gochujang (Korean chili paste)
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1 tablespoon toasted sesame seeds
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2 green onions, chopped
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Salt and pepper, to taste
Directions:
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Preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C).
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Remove the silver skin from the ribs by using a paper towel to grip and pull it off.
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Season both sides of the ribs with salt and pepper.
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In a bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, brown sugar, honey, rice vinegar, sesame oil, garlic, ginger, and gochujang.
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Place the ribs on a baking sheet and brush them generously with the sauce mixture.
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Cover the ribs with aluminum foil and bake for 2.5 to 3 hours, or until they are tender.
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Remove the foil and increase the oven temperature to 450°F (230°C). Bake for an additional 10-15 minutes to allow the glaze to caramelize.
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Remove from the oven and let the ribs rest for 5 minutes before slicing.
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Garnish with toasted sesame seeds and green onions before serving.
Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 3 hours | Total Time: 3 hours 10 minutes Kcal: 370 kcal | Servings: 4 servings
Flavor Profile and Ingredients
The unique blend of ingredients in the sauce for these Korean-style BBQ ribs is what sets them apart from other rib recipes. The primary flavors come from soy sauce, which provides saltiness, and the deep, sweet richness of honey and brown sugar. The addition of rice vinegar adds a touch of acidity that balances the sweetness, while ginger and garlic lend their aromatic qualities to the dish.
One of the most distinctive ingredients in this recipe is gochujang, a Korean chili paste made from fermented soybeans, chili powder, and salt. This paste imparts a subtle heat and umami flavor that enhances the overall complexity of the dish. The glaze is both tangy and sticky, which coats the ribs perfectly and creates a caramelized finish during the final stages of baking.
The Cooking Process
To make the ribs, you’ll first season the pork with salt and pepper and wrap it in foil for baking. This helps the meat retain its moisture and become tender. Baking at a low temperature for 90 minutes allows the ribs to cook slowly, absorbing the flavors of the marinade. Afterward, the foil is opened, and the ribs are basted with the sauce. Baking at a higher temperature for the last 30 minutes helps the glaze thicken and caramelize, giving the ribs their signature sticky, flavorful coating.
Tips for Perfect Korean BBQ Ribs
While the recipe is straightforward, there are a few things to keep in mind to ensure the ribs turn out perfect every time:
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Baste the ribs regularly: For maximum flavor, be sure to baste the ribs with the sauce at least twice during the final baking phase. This will ensure the ribs are fully coated and absorb all the flavors of the marinade.
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Grate the onion: To make the sauce smooth and blend more seamlessly, grate the onion instead of chopping it. Grated onion will break down during cooking, releasing its flavor and creating a smoother, more even sauce.
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Control the heat: Be mindful of the cooking temperature in the last 30 minutes. The high heat caramelizes the sauce, but it can also cause the edges of the ribs to scorch if they’re left for too long. Keep an eye on them and check every 10 minutes to avoid burning.
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Serve with accompaniments: Korean BBQ ribs are often served with a variety of sides. Pair these sticky ribs with steamed rice and a side of kimchi for an authentic Korean meal. A simple cucumber salad also complements the rich flavors of the ribs.
How to Serve Korean-Style BBQ Ribs
Korean-style BBQ ribs are best served hot and fresh. After baking, let the ribs rest for a few minutes before slicing them into individual portions. Garnish with a sprinkle of sesame seeds and freshly chopped scallions for added flavor and color. These ribs can be served as a main dish alongside steamed white rice, or they can be enjoyed as a part of a larger Korean BBQ feast.
The Perfect Meal for Any Occasion
These ribs make for an impressive centerpiece at any dinner party or gathering. Their sweet, tangy, and slightly spicy flavors appeal to a wide range of tastes, making them a crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re celebrating a holiday, hosting a BBQ, or simply looking for a flavorful weeknight dinner, Korean-style BBQ ribs are sure to satisfy.
The recipe also offers room for customization. If you prefer spicier ribs, you can increase the amount of gochujang, or add red pepper flakes to the sauce. Alternatively, if you want a more subtle flavor, you can adjust the amount of honey or vinegar to suit your tastes.
Nutritional Information and Health Considerations
Each serving of Korean-style BBQ ribs contains approximately 1124 kcal, making them a hearty and filling dish. The high protein content from the pork provides a satisfying meal, while the combination of sesame oil and soy sauce contributes to the richness and flavor profile. However, keep in mind that the dish is relatively high in fat and sodium, so it may not be suitable for those on low-sodium or low-fat diets.
For those with dietary restrictions, it’s important to note that the recipe includes soy sauce, which contains gluten. You can substitute tamari or a gluten-free soy sauce if necessary. Additionally, the ribs can be prepared with other cuts of pork, such as spare ribs, for a different texture.
Conclusion
Korean-style BBQ ribs are a fantastic way to enjoy the unique flavors of Korean cuisine at home. With their sweet, savory, and spicy glaze, these ribs offer a delicious twist on the classic BBQ rib recipe. The slow-baking process ensures the meat is juicy and tender, while the caramelized glaze provides an irresistible finish.
Whether you’re hosting a special occasion or just craving something flavorful, this recipe is sure to become a favorite. With just a few simple ingredients and an easy cooking process, you can create a mouthwatering dish that everyone will enjoy. So fire up your oven and get ready to indulge in the rich, tangy goodness of Korean-style BBQ ribs!