Sticky, Sweet & Smoky Ribs Inspired by Michael Symon
These sticky ribs are fall-off-the-bone tender, packed with bold, smoky flavor, and finished with a sweet-and-spicy glaze that clings to every bite. Inspired by Michael Symon’s signature approach to barbecue, this recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser for any cookout or weekend feast.
π Ingredients:
π For the Ribs:
- π 2 racks baby back ribs (about 4 lbs)
- π§ 2 tbsp kosher salt
- πΆοΈ 1 tbsp smoked paprika
- π§ 1 tbsp garlic powder
- πΏ 1 tbsp dried oregano
- π§ 1 tbsp onion powder
- πΆοΈ 1 tsp cayenne pepper
- π₯ 1 tsp freshly ground black pepper
π₯ For the Sticky Glaze:
- π― 1/2 cup honey
- π· 1/2 cup apple cider vinegar
- π 1/2 cup ketchup
- πΆοΈ 2 tbsp hot sauce (like Frank’s RedHot)
- π§ 2 cloves garlic, minced
- π§ 2 tbsp unsalted butter
π³ Instructions:
1οΈβ£ Prep the Ribs:
πͺ Remove the silver skin from the back of each rack. In a small bowl, mix the salt, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, oregano, cayenne, and black pepper. Rub the spice mix generously over both sides of the ribs. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight for best flavor.
2οΈβ£ Bake Low and Slow:
π₯ Preheat your oven to 300Β°F (150Β°C). Place ribs on a foil-lined baking sheet or in a roasting pan. Cover tightly with foil and bake for 2Β½ to 3 hours, until tender but not falling apart.
3οΈβ£ Make the Sticky Glaze:
π₯£ While the ribs bake, combine honey, vinegar, ketchup, hot sauce, garlic, and butter in a small saucepan over medium heat. Simmer for 10β15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until thick and sticky.
4οΈβ£ Glaze and Broil (or Grill):
π₯ Preheat your broiler or outdoor grill to high. Brush the ribs generously with the glaze and broil or grill for 5β7 minutes, turning and glazing as needed, until caramelized and sticky.
5οΈβ£ Rest and Serve:
𧻠Let ribs rest for 5 minutes, then slice between the bones and serve with extra glaze on the side.
Amazon Must-Haves to help you make Michael SymonβInspired Sticky Ribs
- π Heavy-Duty Rib Rack β Keep ribs elevated for even cooking and better airflow in the oven or smoker
- π₯ Smoked Paprika β Adds deep smoky flavor to your dry rub without a smoker
- π― Organic Wildflower Honey β Rich and floral β the perfect sticky-sweet base for your glaze
- π₯ Nonstick Saucepan β Ideal for simmering down glazes and sauces without sticking
- π§ Garlic Mincer Press Tool β Crush garlic quickly and evenly for your glaze
- 𧽠Silicone Basting Brush Set β Perfect for brushing sticky glaze without melting bristles
π‘ Helpful Tip:
Want that perfect balance of sweet and heat? Add a splash of soy sauce or Worcestershire to the glaze for extra umami depth β just like a pitmasterβs secret weapon.