Ingredients
Scale
For the Ribs
- 2 racks of baby back ribs (about 4 pounds)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
For the Sweet Chili Glaze
- 1/2 cup Thai sweet chili sauce
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 2 tablespoons lime juice (about 1 lime)
- 1 tablespoon fish sauce
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 teaspoon grated ginger
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
For Garnish
- Fresh cilantro, chopped
- Sliced green onions
- Sesame seeds
- Lime wedges
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Ribs
- Preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C) if baking, or set your slow cooker to low.
- Remove the membrane from the back of the ribs for better texture and flavor absorption.
- Pat the ribs dry with paper towels, then season them generously with salt, black pepper, and garlic powder on both sides.
Step 2: Cook the Ribs
Oven Method
- Wrap each rack of ribs tightly in aluminum foil and place them on a baking sheet.
- Bake for 2.5 to 3 hours, or until the ribs are tender but still hold their shape.
Slow Cooker Method
- Place the seasoned ribs in the slow cooker, cutting them into smaller sections if necessary to fit.
- Cook on low for 6-8 hours, or until tender.
Step 3: Make the Sweet Chili Glaze
- In a small saucepan, combine the sweet chili sauce, soy sauce, honey, lime juice, fish sauce, garlic, ginger, and red pepper flakes.
- Simmer over medium heat for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the glaze thickens slightly.
Step 4: Glaze and Caramelize
- Once the ribs are cooked, remove them from the oven or slow cooker and discard any accumulated juices.
- Preheat your broiler or grill.
- Brush the ribs generously with the sweet chili glaze on both sides.
- Place the ribs under the broiler or on the grill for 5-7 minutes, turning and basting with more glaze until the sauce caramelizes and becomes sticky.
Step 5: Serve
- Transfer the ribs to a serving platter and garnish with chopped cilantro, sliced green onions, sesame seeds, and lime wedges.
- Serve hot with your choice of sides, such as rice, noodles, or a fresh salad.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 2.5 to 3 hours (oven or slow cooker)
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 3-4 ribs
- Calories: 450 kcal
- Sugar: 12g
- Fat: 30g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 32g