Ingredients
For the Ribs
- 1.5–2 kg ribs (beef or lamb ribs depending on your preference)
- 1 tablespoon salt
- 1 tablespoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon paprika
- 1 tablespoon onion powder
- 1 tablespoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon chili powder (optional)
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon cumin
For the Sticky BBQ Glaze
- 1 cup BBQ sauce
- 3 tablespoons honey
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 1 tablespoon ketchup
- 1 teaspoon mustard
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
How to Make Sticky BBQ Ribs (Step-by-Step Guide)
1. Prepare the Ribs
Start by patting the ribs dry with paper towels. Removing excess moisture allows the seasoning to stick better. Flip the ribs over and check if there is a thin membrane on the back; removing it helps the meat become more tender.
Once cleaned, place the ribs in a large tray or bowl.
2. Season Generously
Mix all the dry spices together in a bowl—salt, pepper, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, chili powder, thyme, and cumin. Rub this mixture all over the ribs, making sure every part is coated.
This dry rub is important because it gives the ribs their deep flavor when cooked. Let the ribs rest for at least 20–30 minutes. If you have more time, refrigerate them overnight for even better flavor absorption.
3. Wrap & Slow Bake
Preheat your oven to 150°C (300°F).
Place the ribs on a baking tray and wrap them tightly in aluminum foil. This traps steam and allows the ribs to cook slowly, becoming tender and juicy.
Bake for 2.5 to 3 hours, depending on thickness.
When you remove the foil after baking, the ribs should be extremely tender—almost falling off the bone.
4. Make the Sticky BBQ Glaze
While the ribs are baking, prepare the glaze. In a saucepan, mix:
- BBQ sauce
- Honey
- Brown sugar
- Soy sauce
- Vinegar
- Ketchup
- Mustard
- Garlic powder
- Smoked paprika
Heat the mixture over low heat for 5 minutes. It will thicken slightly and become glossy. This sauce is what gives the ribs that sticky, beautiful shine like in the image.
5. Glaze and Broil
After the ribs finish baking, remove the foil and brush a generous amount of glaze all over the top and sides.
Increase your oven heat to 220°C (425°F) or switch to broil/grill mode.
Place the ribs back in the oven for 10–12 minutes, or until the glaze becomes caramelized and sticky.
Brush on more sauce halfway through for extra shine and flavor.
This final step gives the ribs a deep golden color and the irresistible sticky finish you see in the image.
6. Slice and Serve
Let the ribs rest for 10 minutes so the juices settle.
Cut between each bone using a sharp knife. You will notice how tender the meat is — soft, juicy, and coated in a thick, shiny glaze.