Why You’ll Love this Oven Baked Pork Ribs Recipe
When you sink your teeth into these oven-baked pork ribs, you’ll instantly understand why they’re a favorite in my kitchen.
The tender, juicy meat practically falls off the bone, while the sweet and savory marinade creates a mouthwatering glaze that’s simply irresistible.
I love how easy they’re to make—just a bit of prep and then they roast to perfection in the oven.
Plus, the aroma that fills my home as they cook is heavenly.
Whether it’s a family gathering or a cozy night in, these ribs always impress and leave everyone asking for seconds.
Trust me, you’ll adore them!
Ingredients of Oven Baked Pork Ribs
When it comes to whipping up a delicious meal, the ingredients can make all the difference. For these oven-baked pork ribs, you’ll need a mix of savory and sweet components that come together beautifully to create that finger-licking goodness we all crave.
It’s like a flavor party in your mouth. So, let’s plunge into what you’ll need to gather before you start this rib adventure.
Ingredients:
- 5 lbs pork ribs
- 3 tablespoons garlic, finely minced
- 1 tablespoon ginger (I didn’t have any, but it’s traditionally included)
- 6 tablespoons honey
- 1 tablespoon oyster sauce
- 1/2 tablespoon white pepper
- 2 chili peppers, minced
- 1/3 cup cognac or bourbon
Now, before you rush off to the grocery store, let’s chat about a few things regarding these ingredients.
First off, if you can find fresh ginger, definitely go for it; the zing it adds is fantastic. But hey, if you’re like me and find yourself in a ginger-less situation, don’t sweat it! The garlic and honey do a great job of carrying the flavor.
And about that cognac or bourbon – it’s not just for sipping! It adds a depth to the marinade that you won’t want to skip. Just remember to keep an eye on your chili peppers; while they add a nice kick, you can adjust the amount to suit your taste buds.
Got kids or sensitive palates? Maybe dial it back a bit. Cooking should be fun and flavorful, so let’s get those ingredients ready for a rib-tastic experience!
How to Make Oven Baked Pork Ribs
Alright, let’s plunge into how to make these mouth-watering oven-baked pork ribs. First things first, you’ll want to get your 5 lbs of pork ribs out of the fridge (or freezer, if you’re like me and forgot you’d them tucked away).
If you haven’t marinated them yet, no worries. Grab a mixing bowl and toss in 3 tablespoons of finely minced garlic, 1 tablespoon of ginger (if you have it), 6 tablespoons of honey, 1 tablespoon of oyster sauce, 1/2 tablespoon of white pepper, and 2 minced chili peppers.
And don’t forget that splash of flavor from 1/3 cup of cognac or bourbon. Mix it all together until it’s a lovely, fragrant marinade. The aroma should have you dreaming about those ribs already.
Now, here comes the fun part: marinating. You can either let those ribs soak up all that goodness overnight in the fridge or, if you’re like me and can’t wait, just pop them in the freezer.
I once had a batch marinate for two weeks, and let me tell you, it was worth the wait. Once marinated, preheat your oven to a toasty 220°C (that’s 428°F for my fellow Americans).
Place those ribs in a deep baking tray, along with all that delicious marinade. You want them to swim in it, soaking up every drop of flavor.
Now, slide that tray into the oven and let it cook for about an hour. Here’s a pro tip: turn the ribs every fifteen minutes.
This little trick guarantees they get that golden-brown finish on both sides. It’s like giving them a mini spa treatment, and you’ll be rewarded with tender, juicy ribs that practically fall off the bone.
As the aroma fills your kitchen, you might find yourself checking the oven more often than necessary, but trust me, the wait will be worth it. So, sit back, relax, and get ready to dig into some seriously scrumptious ribs.
Oven Baked Pork Ribs Substitutions & Variations
While following the original recipe for oven-baked pork ribs is a surefire way to create a delicious meal, feel free to experiment with substitutions and variations that suit your taste.
Instead of cognac or bourbon, try using apple juice for a sweeter flavor or even cola for a unique twist. If you’re out of ginger, add a dash of cinnamon for warmth.
For a spice kick, switch up the chili peppers with jalapeños or even a pinch of cayenne. You can also mix in different sauces, like barbecue or teriyaki, to create your own signature glaze.
Enjoy getting creative!
What to Serve with Oven Baked Pork Ribs
Oven baked pork ribs deserve sides that complement their rich, smoky flavor.
I love serving them with creamy coleslaw, which adds an invigorating crunch. Grilled corn on the cob is another favorite; its sweetness balances the savory ribs perfectly.
Don’t forget baked beans—they’re a classic pairing, rich and hearty. For a lighter option, I often whip up a simple green salad with a tangy vinaigrette to cut through the richness.
Finally, some crispy potato wedges or sweet potato fries make for a delightful, satisfying addition. Trust me, these sides will elevate your meal to the next level!
Additional Tips & Notes
To guarantee your oven baked pork ribs turn out perfectly, I recommend checking the internal temperature of the meat. Aim for around 190°F for tender, fall-off-the-bone goodness.
If you’re short on time, marinating for a few hours still works wonders. When baking, don’t forget to baste with the marinade every 30 minutes for extra flavor.
If you prefer a crispy finish, broil the ribs for a few minutes after baking.
Finally, let the ribs rest for about 10 minutes before serving; this helps the juices redistribute.
Enjoy your delicious creation with family and friends!