Oven-baked pork ribs

Oven-Baked Pork Ribs with Honey and Garlic - An Irresistible Delicacy

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Marinating time: 2 hours
Baking time: 1 hour
Total time: 3 hours 15 minutes
Servings: 4

I invite you to discover a delicious and easy recipe for oven-baked pork ribs that will bring joy to your table. These ribs are marinated with a blend of aromatic spices, sweet honey, and garlic, creating a dish that melts in your mouth. It is a perfect main course for a family dinner or a special occasion.

A bit of history

Pork ribs are a popular ingredient in cuisines around the world. Over time, cooking methods have evolved, but the combination of succulent meat and aromatic spices has remained constant. This simple recipe blends tradition with modern baking techniques, giving you a fantastic result.

Necessary ingredients

- 1.5 kg pork ribs
- Salt (to taste)
- Pepper (to taste)
- Thyme (1 teaspoon)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Rosemary (1 teaspoon)
- 3 garlic cloves
- Chili powder (1/2 teaspoon, optional)
- Paprika (1 teaspoon)
- 1 teaspoon honey

Ingredient details

- Pork ribs: Choose ribs with a good layer of meat and not too much fat. Fat is important for juiciness, but too much can make the dish heavy.
- Garlic: A fantastic ingredient that adds a deep, aromatic flavor. You can use fresh garlic or garlic powder, but fresh is always preferred.
- Spices: Thyme and rosemary are excellent choices to enhance the flavor of the pork, while paprika and chili powder add a touch of warmth and depth.

Step by step

1. Preparing the meat: Start by washing the pork ribs well under cold running water. Use a sharp knife to trim any excess fat if necessary. It is important to pat the meat dry with paper towels to help the marinade adhere better.

2. Preparing the marinade: Peel and crush the garlic cloves. In a bowl, combine all the spices: salt, pepper, thyme, rosemary, paprika, and chili. Add the 2 tablespoons of olive oil and honey. Mix well until you obtain a smooth paste.

3. Coating the ribs: Use a cooking brush to coat the pork ribs on both sides with the spice mixture. Make sure each portion of the meat is evenly covered so that the flavors penetrate well.

4. Marinating: Place the ribs in a resealable bag and seal it tightly. Place the bag in the refrigerator and let the meat marinate for at least 2 hours, but ideally, leave it to absorb the flavors for up to 12 hours.

5. Baking: Preheat the oven to 180 degrees Celsius. In a baking tray, pour 200 ml of water, then place the ribs with the fatty side up. This step will help keep the meat juicy during baking.

6. Baking time: Place the tray in the oven and let it bake for 40 minutes. After this period, turn the ribs over and let them bake for another 40 minutes. If you want a more browned crust, you can leave them for an additional 5-10 minutes.

7. Resting the meat: Once the ribs are cooked, remove them from the oven and let them rest in the tray for 10 minutes. This step is crucial for allowing the juices to redistribute, making the meat more tender.

8. Serving: Cut the ribs into portions and serve them alongside creamy mashed potatoes and a beet salad with horseradish. This combination provides a perfect contrast between the intense flavors of the meat and the freshness of the salad.

Practical tips

- Variations: You can experiment with different herbs and spices. For example, add a little soy sauce for an umami flavor or use different types of honey for different nuances.
- Side dishes: These ribs also go wonderfully with a crunchy green salad, grilled vegetables, or flavored rice.
- Drinks: A cold beer, preferably a lager, or a dry red wine will pair perfectly with the intense flavors of the pork.

Frequently asked questions

1. Can I use other types of meat?
Yes, you can adapt this recipe for beef or lamb, but the baking time will vary.

2. How can I tell if the ribs are cooked?
Use a meat thermometer. The internal temperature should be at least 70 degrees Celsius.

3. Can the meat be frozen?
Yes, you can freeze the marinated ribs. Make sure to place them in an airtight container to avoid freezer burn.

4. What are the nutritional benefits of pork?
Pork is an excellent source of protein, B vitamins, and minerals such as zinc and selenium. Moderate consumption can be part of a balanced diet.

Calories and nutritional benefits

A serving of oven-baked pork ribs (approximately 200 g) contains about 350-400 calories, depending on the fat content. In addition to quality proteins, the ribs also provide essential vitamins that contribute to overall health.

This oven-baked pork ribs recipe is not only simple but also full of flavors and personality. I guarantee that the result will impress everyone who sits at your table. So, get ready to enjoy a delicious meal and share joyful moments!