Sweet and Spicy Pork Ribs are a crowd-pleasing dish that brings together Asian-inspired flavors with classic barbecue elements. I stumbled upon this recipe during a family cookout and have been making it ever since. The combination of pineapple juice, star anise, and brown sugar creates an irresistible glaze that coats the tender meat perfectly.
About the Recipe
These ribs strike the perfect balance between sweet and spicy flavors. The pineapple juice helps tenderize the meat while adding natural sweetness. The mix of spices – nutmeg, star anise, and cinnamon – creates depth, while the brown sugar caramelizes beautifully during baking. It’s an easy recipe that looks and tastes like you spent all day cooking.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
You’ll love how simple this recipe is to prepare – just mix, marinate, and bake. The foil-covered baking method ensures the meat stays juicy and tender. The final high-temperature blast creates a beautiful glaze that’s Instagram-worthy. Plus, the recipe uses easy-to-find ingredients and basic kitchen equipment. The hands-off cooking time lets you focus on other tasks while your oven does the work.
Sweet and Spicy Pork Ribs
Cooking Tips
– Let the ribs come to room temperature before baking
– Don’t skip the marinating time – it’s key for flavor
– Line your baking dish with foil for easier cleanup
– Baste the ribs every 30 minutes during cooking
– Let the ribs rest for 10 minutes before cutting
Serving and Storing Suggestions
Serves 4-6 people. Total prep time: 30 minutes. Cook time: 2 hours 15 minutes. Marinating time: 3-4 hours.
Serve hot with steamed rice or roasted vegetables. Leftovers keep well in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat covered in a 300°F oven until warm.
Similar Recipes
- Honey Garlic Pork Ribs
- Asian-Style BBQ Ribs
- Five-Spice Braised Pork
- Sticky Maple Ribs
Nutrient Benefits
Pork ribs provide protein and B vitamins. Ginger and garlic offer anti-inflammatory properties. Pineapple juice contains vitamin C and digestive enzymes. Spices like cinnamon and star anise add antioxidants to your meal.
Sweet and Spicy Pork Ribs
Ingredients
- 750 gms Pork Ribs
- Sesame Seeds (handful, toasted)
For the marinade:
- 1/4 tsp Nutmeg Powder
- 1/2 tbsp Salt
- 1 cup Pineapple Juice
- 1/4 tsp Black Pepper Powder
- 4 cloves Garlic (minced)
- 1/2` tbsp Ginger (grated)
- 1 Star Anise (ground)
- 1/4 tsp Cinnamon Powder
For the rub:
- Black Pepper Powder (a pinch)
- 1/2 tsp Salt
- 1/2 cup Brown Sugar
Instructions
- Combine all the marinade ingredients in a bowl and mix well.
- Place the pork ribs on a baking dish and pour the marinade over.
- make sure the ribs are well coated.
- Place the tray aside for 3 to 4 hours.
- Combine the rub ingredients and keep aside.
- Rub the rub evenly over the pork ribs and spoon over any remaining marinade.
- Cover the baking dish with foil and bake in a preheated oven at 175C/350F for 2 hours.
- Remove the foil and increase the temperature to 225C/450F.
- Baste the ribs with the marinade and bake for 15 minutes or until golden brown.
- Remove and transfer to a serving plate.
- Add a little water to the baking dish and scrap the bottom well.
- Pour this into a small pan and cook over high flame until thick.
- Pour this over the ribs.
- Sprinkle the toasted sesame seeds.
- Serve at once.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make these ribs ahead of time?
Yes. You can marinate the ribs overnight and bake them the next day. You can also fully cook them, refrigerate, and reheat gently before serving.
What if I can’t find star anise?
You can skip it or substitute with Chinese five-spice powder. The recipe will still taste great with the other spices.
Can I use a slow cooker instead of the oven?
Yes, cook on low for 6-8 hours, then finish under the broiler for 5 minutes to get that nice glaze.
