Thai Style Sweet Chili Ribs

Thai-style sweet chili ribs are a delicious fusion of tender, slow-cooked pork ribs coated in a sticky, sweet, and slightly spicy chili glaze. This dish is perfect for parties, BBQs, or as a satisfying main course with rice or noodles.

Ingredients

For the Ribs:

1. Pork ribs: Baby back ribs or spare ribs.
2. Marinade:
   • Soy sauce
   • Fish sauce
   • Garlic, minced
   • Ginger, grated
   • Brown sugar or palm sugar
   • Lime juice
3. Seasoning:
   • Salt and pepper.

For the Sweet Chili Glaze:

1. Thai sweet chili sauce.
2. Honey or palm sugar (optional for extra sweetness).
3. Lime juice or rice vinegar (for balance).
4. Garlic, finely minced.
5. Red chili flakes or sriracha (for added spice, optional).
6. Soy sauce.

Garnishes:

1. Chopped cilantro.
2. Sliced red chilies.
3. Toasted sesame seeds.
4. Lime wedges.

Directions

Step 1: Prepare the Ribs

1. Clean and prep the ribs:
   • Remove the silver skin from the back of the ribs for tenderness.
2. Marinate:
   • In a bowl, combine soy sauce, fish sauce, garlic, ginger, brown sugar, and lime juice.
   • Rub the marinade all over the ribs and let them marinate for at least 2 hours or overnight in the refrigerator.

Step 2: Cook the Ribs

1. Oven Method:
   • Preheat the oven to 300°F (150°C).
   • Wrap the marinated ribs in aluminum foil and place them on a baking tray.
   • Bake for 2.5–3 hours, or until the ribs are tender and the meat pulls away easily from the bone.
2. Grill Method:
   • Cook the ribs on indirect heat (low flame) for about 2–3 hours, brushing with the marinade occasionally.

Step 3: Make the Sweet Chili Glaze

1. In a small saucepan, combine Thai sweet chili sauce, honey, lime juice, minced garlic, and soy sauce.
2. Simmer on low heat until the sauce thickens slightly (about 5 minutes).

Step 4: Glaze and Finish

1. Remove the ribs from the oven or grill and brush generously with the sweet chili glaze.
2. For caramelization, place the glazed ribs under a broiler or return them to the grill for a few minutes until the glaze becomes sticky and slightly charred.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

1. Transfer the ribs to a serving platter.
2. Sprinkle with chopped cilantro, sesame seeds, and sliced red chilies.
3. Serve with lime wedges on the side.

Tips

• For extra tenderness, consider boiling the ribs for 30–45 minutes before marinating and cooking.
• Adjust the spice level of the glaze by adding more chili flakes or sriracha.
• Pair with jasmine rice, sticky rice, or fresh vegetables for a complete meal.

Enjoy the irresistible combination of sweet, savory, and spicy flavors in these Thai-style sweet chili ribs! 🍖