The moment the oven door swings open, my kitchen fills with the rich aroma of garlic and sweet honey, instantly transporting me to a bustling street market in Asia. This recipe for Gordon Ramsay’s Sticky Pork Ribs is not just a meal; it’s an experience that brings warmth and comfort to any gathering. As the tender, fall-apart ribs emerge, glistening with a glossy glaze, I can’t help but recall the first time I tasted a dish like this—each bite bursting with flavor and comfort!
With only a handful of easy-to-find ingredients, these slow-cooked ribs transform into a show-stopping centerpiece that will captivate your friends and family. The balance of soy sauce, brown sugar, and spices creates an irresistible sticky finish that leaves everyone reaching for seconds. Whether you’re hosting a casual BBQ or shouldering the burdens of a long week, this recipe promises to make your dinner both delicious and memorable. Let’s embark on a culinary journey that is sure to impress!
Why choose Gordon Ramsay’s Sticky Pork Ribs?
Tender, fall-apart meat: The slow-cooking method transforms simple ribs into a melt-in-your-mouth delight.
Glorious glaze: A garlicky-sweet glaze combines the richness of honey and soy with a hint of heat for perfect harmony.
Easy to make: With just a few basic ingredients and straightforward steps, you can impress your loved ones with minimal effort.
Versatile flavors: Customize the recipe with different sugars or spices for a personalized touch.
Crowd-pleaser: Perfect for gatherings or even cozy weeknight dinners, these ribs guarantee satisfied smiles all around! Enjoy them with steamed rice or a refreshing cucumber salad for a complete meal.
Gordon Ramsay’s Sticky Pork Ribs Ingredients
For the Ribs
- Baby Back Ribs – The star ingredient that becomes irresistibly tender; be sure to remove the silver skin for the best texture.
- Morton Kosher Salt – Enhances flavor; you can substitute with sea salt or table salt, adjusting the amount to taste.
For the Dry Rub
- Brown Sugar – Adds sweetness and caramelization; try coconut sugar for a deeper, richer flavor.
- Smoked Paprika – Infuses the dish with depth and smokiness; if you prefer a milder flavor, regular paprika works too.
- Granulated Garlic – Boosts the seasoning with a rich garlic flavor; fresh minced garlic can amp up the taste even more.
- Granulated Onion – Contributes sweetness and depth; consider fresh onion for a more robust flavor but adjust moisture accordingly.
- Ground Ginger – Offers warmth to the flavor profile; opt for fresh ginger for an extra zing.
- Chinese Five Spice – Adds aromatic complexity; can be omitted or swapped for a mix of nutmeg and cinnamon if preferred.
- White Pepper – Introduces a gentle heat; black pepper is a suitable alternative if that’s what you have on hand.
For the Glaze
- Sesame Oil – Enriches the flavor profile; feel free to use canola or vegetable oil as a substitute.
- Garlic – Minced fresh garlic contributes to the glaze’s punchy flavor—be sure to use a generous amount!
- Rice Vinegar – Adds a touch of acidity to balance the sweetness; apple cider vinegar can also be used effectively.
- Honey – Key for achieving that deliciously sticky glaze; maple syrup serves as a great vegan alternative.
- Red Pepper Flakes – Provides a touch of heat; use them according to your taste for a milder or spicier kick.
These ingredients combined create the magic of Gordon Ramsay’s Sticky Pork Ribs, making it an unforgettable dish that is sure to impress everyone at your table!
How to Make Gordon Ramsay’s Sticky Pork Ribs
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Prep Ribs: Begin by removing the silver skin from the baby back ribs. Season them generously with the dry rub mix, combining brown sugar, smoked paprika, kosher salt, garlic, onion, ginger, five spice, and white pepper.
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Slow Bake: Place the seasoned ribs on a baking sheet and bake them at 275°F (135°C) for about 2.5 hours. This low-and-slow method ensures they become incredibly tender and flavorful.
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Prepare Glaze: In a saucepan, combine minced garlic, ground ginger, honey, soy sauce, rice vinegar, and red pepper flakes. Bring it to a simmer over medium heat, stirring occasionally until the mixture thickens slightly.
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Glaze Ribs: Take the ribs out of the oven and brush them generously with the prepared glaze. Increase the oven temperature to 400°F (200°C) or switch to broil, cooking for an additional 5-10 minutes until the glaze is sticky and caramelized.
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Serve: Once done, let the ribs rest for a few minutes before slicing. Serve them with rice, salad, or enjoy them hot straight off the bone for that mouthwatering experience!
Optional: Drizzle with extra glaze before serving for an extra sticky finish.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Storage Tips for Gordon Ramsay’s Sticky Pork Ribs
Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days, ensuring they stay fresh and flavorful.
Freezer: For longer storage, slice the ribs and wrap them tightly in plastic wrap, then aluminum foil. They can be frozen for up to 3 months.
Reheating: To revive your delicious Gordon Ramsay’s Sticky Pork Ribs, reheat in the oven at 180°C (350°F) until warmed through, about 15-20 minutes, or use an air fryer for a crispy finish.
Avoid sogginess: To keep the glaze intact, reheat ribs uncovered, allowing moisture to evaporate, resulting in a nice, sticky exterior.
What to Serve with Gordon Ramsay’s Sticky Pork Ribs?
The perfect side dishes can elevate your ribs from tasty to truly unforgettable, creating a well-rounded meal that delights all the senses.
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Creamy Coleslaw: This crunchy, tangy side balances the rich sweetness of the ribs, providing a delightful contrast in both texture and flavor. It’s refreshing and helps cleanse the palate between bites.
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Steamed Jasmine Rice: The subtle floral notes complement the glaze beautifully. Plus, the rice is perfect for soaking up any extra sauce, making each bite even more indulgent and satisfying.
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Garlic Bread: A crispy, buttery loaf enhances the meal, perfect for sopping up the extraordinary sticky glaze. It’s a comforting addition that everyone loves.
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Roasted Broccoli: Roasting brings out the natural sweetness of broccoli, creating a tender-crisp bite that balances the richness of the ribs with its slight bitterness. A sprinkle of sesame seeds ties it nicely into the Asian-inspired theme.
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Cucumber Salad: The crunch and freshness of cucumber salad provide a cool, textural contrast, refreshing your palate in the process. Tossed with a light vinegar dressing, it brightens the entire meal.
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Sweet Potato Fries: These provide a sweet and savory twist that pairs well with the sticky glaze, offering a satisfying crunch that everyone will adore. The natural sweetness complements the ribs, creating delightful layers of flavor.
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Fruit-Infused Iced Tea: A refreshing drink that enhances the overall dining experience, the fruity flavors pair lovely with the sweetness of the glaze while keeping the meal light and refreshing.
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Warm Chocolate Brownies: Finish your meal on a sweet note with fudgy brownies that offer a decadent end to the evening. Their rich flavor creates a lovely contrast to the savory ribs, making it the perfect dessert to satisfy your sweet tooth.
Gordon Ramsay’s Sticky Pork Ribs Variations
Feel free to customize these ribs to suit your taste buds! A little creativity can take this recipe to a whole new level.
- Spare Ribs: Swap baby back ribs for spare ribs and increase cooking time by 30-45 minutes for ultimate tenderness.
- BBQ Sauce: Use your favorite store-bought barbecue sauce instead of the homemade glaze for quicker prep, although the flavor may be less complex.
- Coconut Sugar: Experiment with coconut sugar in place of brown sugar for a deeper, caramel-like sweetness.
- Fresh Garlic: Replace granulated garlic with fresh minced garlic for a burst of vibrant flavor that elevates the dish even further.
- Honey Alternative: Maple syrup can be used instead of honey if you’re looking for a vegan twist to maintain that delightful stickiness.
- Add Heat: Toss in extra red pepper flakes or even a splash of sriracha to the glaze for a spicier kick and extra flavor depth.
- Veggie Boost: For a wholesome touch, add sliced bell peppers or onions to the baking tray during the last hour of cooking— they’ll caramelize beautifully alongside the ribs.
- Smoky Chipotle: Add chipotle powder to the dry rub for a smoky flavor profile that pairs perfectly with the sweetness of the glaze.
Dare to experiment, and make this dish your own! Each variation opens a new door to deliciousness.
Make Ahead Options
These Gordon Ramsay’s Sticky Pork Ribs are perfect for busy weeknights and meal prep! You can season the ribs and prepare the dry rub up to 24 hours in advance, simply covering them in plastic wrap and refrigerating until ready to cook. Additionally, the glaze can be made and stored in the fridge for up to 3 days—just reheat gently on the stove before brushing it on. When it’s time to serve, bake the ribs as directed and finish with the warmed glaze for that irresistible sticky layer. By prepping ahead, you’ll save precious time while ensuring your ribs are just as delicious and satisfying!
Expert Tips for Gordon Ramsay’s Sticky Pork Ribs
Remove Silver Skin: Always take a moment to remove the silver skin; this ensures more tender ribs and a better texture.
Simmer the Glaze: Don’t skip simmering the glaze! This step concentrates the flavors and prevents a diluted taste in your Gordon Ramsay’s Sticky Pork Ribs.
Cooking Time Adjustment: When using spare ribs instead of baby back ribs, remember to add 30-45 minutes to the cooking time for maximum tenderness.
Brush Generously: Be generous when glazing the ribs before the final bake; this creates that irresistible sticky finish everyone loves.
Rest Before Serving: Allow the ribs to rest for a few minutes post-baking; this helps the juices redistribute for an even more succulent bite.
Gordon Ramsay’s Sticky Pork Ribs Recipe FAQs
How do I select the best ribs?
Absolutely! When choosing baby back ribs, look for ones that have a good amount of meat on them with a bit of marbling for flavor. The meat should appear pink and fresh, while the bones should be clean. Avoid ribs with a lot of dark spots or a dry appearance, as these might not be as tender.
How should I store leftover ribs?
After your dinner feast, store leftover ribs in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. This keeps them fresh and ready for delicious leftovers. If longer storage is needed, slice the ribs and wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil. They can be safely stored in the freezer for up to 3 months!
Can I freeze Gordon Ramsay’s Sticky Pork Ribs?
Certainly! For optimal flavor, slice the ribs before freezing. Wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap and then cover with aluminum foil or place in a freezer-safe bag. Make sure to label with the date to ensure you use them within 3 months for the best taste!
What should I do if my glaze isn’t thick enough?
No worries at all! If your glaze is too thin, simmer it a bit longer on medium heat. Stir occasionally until it reduces and thickens, which should take about 5-10 minutes. If you find it still won’t thicken, consider adding a cornstarch slurry (mix 1 tablespoon cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of water) to help it along.
Are there any dietary considerations I should keep in mind?
Yes, definitely! If you have dietary restrictions, consider using alternative ingredients. For a low-sodium option, look for reduced-sodium soy sauce and control the amount of salt in your dry rub. If you’re cooking for someone with allergies, be aware that this recipe contains soy, honey, and sesame oil—feel free to substitute honey with maple syrup for a vegan option or omit sesame oil if there are nut allergies.
How do I ensure my ribs don’t dry out?
To avoid dry ribs, always remember to bake them at a low temperature, as this method helps them retain moisture. If you’re using spare ribs instead of baby back ribs, adjust your cooking time by an extra 30-45 minutes to ensure they’re fully tender. Also, don’t skip the resting phase after baking; this allows the juices to redistribute through the meat, leading to juicy bites!
Gordon Ramsay’s Sticky Pork Ribs with Irresistible Glaze
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Remove the silver skin from the baby back ribs. Season with the dry rub mix.
- Bake the seasoned ribs on a baking sheet at 275°F (135°C) for about 2.5 hours.
- Prepare the glaze by combining minced garlic, ground ginger, honey, soy sauce, rice vinegar, and red pepper flakes in a saucepan and simmering until thickened.
- Brush the baked ribs generously with the glaze and bake for an additional 5-10 minutes at 400°F (200°C) until sticky.
- Let the ribs rest for a few minutes before slicing and serving.