Baked Korean BBQ Spare Ribs

These Baked Korean BBQ Spare Ribs are a must-try for any barbecue lover. Perfect for gatherings, family dinners, or even a cozy night in, this dish combines bold flavors with tender meat. The marinade infuses the ribs with a sweet and savory profile that will tantalize your taste buds. With just the right amount of heat and garnished with sesame seeds and green onions, these ribs are sure to impress.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Flavor Explosion: The marinade is packed with soy sauce, garlic, ginger, and a touch of sriracha for spice.
• Easy Preparation: With minimal active cooking time, you can marinate ahead and let the oven do the work.
• Versatile Serving Options: Serve over rice with kimchi or alongside fresh cabbage for a complete meal.
• Crowd-Pleaser: Perfect for entertaining, these ribs are sure to impress your guests at any gathering.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: Marinate overnight for maximum flavor and tenderness.

Tools and Preparation

Before you dive into these delicious baked Korean BBQ spare ribs, gather your tools. Having the right equipment on hand makes the cooking process smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large mixing bowl
• Whisk
• Skillet
• Baking dish
• Foil

Importance of Each Tool

• Large mixing bowl: Ideal for marinating ribs, allowing all ingredients to blend well.
• Skillet: Essential for searing the ribs to lock in flavor before baking.
• Baking dish: Provides the perfect vessel for slow cooking the ribs until tender.

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Ingredients

These baked Korean BBQ short ribs are bold, sticky, and packed with flavor. Flanken-style short ribs are marinated overnight in a sweet, savory, garlicky sauce, then seared and baked until tender. Think soy, ginger, garlic, and just enough heat. Finish with a sprinkle of sesame seeds and green onions, and serve over rice with kimchi or crunchy cabbage on the side.

Ingredients:
– 3.5 pounds flanken-style short ribs (about 12 ribs)
– 1 small onion (minced)
– 10 cloves garlic (minced)
– 2 tablespoons ginger (minced)
– ¾ cup soy sauce
– ¼ cup rice vinegar
– ⅓ cup brown sugar (or to taste)
– 2 tablespoons toasted sesame oil
– 3 tablespoons sriracha (optional, for spice)
– 2 teaspoons black pepper
– Vegetable oil (for searing)
– Sesame seeds (for garnish)
– Sliced green onions (for garnish)

How to Make Baked Korean BBQ Spare Ribs

Step 1: Prepare the Marinade

In a big mixing bowl, whisk together the onion, garlic, ginger, soy sauce, rice vinegar, brown sugar, sesame oil, sriracha (if using), and black pepper. Taste the marinade before adding the meat; this is your opportunity to adjust sweetness or spice.

Step 2: Marinate the Ribs

Add the short ribs to the bowl and ensure they’re fully coated in the marinade. Cover tightly and refrigerate for at least 8 hours or overnight if possible. Flip the ribs halfway through to maximize flavor absorption.

Step 3: Preheat Your Oven

About 30 minutes before cooking, remove the ribs from the fridge so they can come closer to room temperature. Preheat your oven to 375°F.

Step 4: Sear the Ribs

Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add vegetable oil. Sear each batch of ribs for about 3–4 minutes per side until browned. Transfer them to a greased baking dish as you go along.

Step 5: Bake Until Tender

Once all ribs are seared in your baking dish, spoon some of the leftover marinade over them—especially bits of onion and garlic. Discard any remaining marinade. Cover tightly with foil and bake for 25–30 minutes until fork-tender.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Sprinkle sesame seeds and sliced green onions on top before serving. Pair these delicious baked Korean BBQ spare ribs with fluffy white rice and crunchy shredded cabbage or kimchi for an unforgettable meal!

How to Serve Baked Korean BBQ Spare Ribs

Serving baked Korean BBQ spare ribs can elevate your dining experience. Pairing these flavorful ribs with the right sides and garnishes will enhance their taste and presentation.

Pair with Rice

• Fluffy white rice is a classic accompaniment that soaks up the delicious sauce. You can also try jasmine or basmati rice for a fragrant twist.

Add Kimchi

• This traditional side dish adds a spicy, tangy kick that complements the sweetness of the ribs. Use store-bought or homemade kimchi, depending on your preference.

Serve with Cabbage Salad

• A crunchy cabbage salad provides a refreshing contrast to the tender ribs. Toss shredded cabbage with a light vinaigrette for a simple yet delicious side.

Garnish with Green Onions

• Sliced green onions not only add color but also bring a mild onion flavor that enhances each bite of the ribs.

Drizzle with Extra Sauce

• For those who love extra flavor, drizzle some reserved marinade over the served ribs for an added taste boost.

How to Perfect Baked Korean BBQ Spare Ribs

Achieving perfect baked Korean BBQ spare ribs requires attention to detail in preparation and cooking. Here are some tips to help you master this dish.

• Marinate Overnight: Allowing the ribs to marinate overnight ensures maximum flavor infusion and tenderness.
• Sear Properly: Searing the ribs creates a caramelized crust that locks in juices and adds depth to the flavor.
• Use Foil: Covering the baking dish with foil during cooking helps retain moisture, resulting in tender meat.
• Check for Doneness: The ribs should be fork-tender; if they’re not quite there after 30 minutes, give them additional time in the oven.
• Garnish Generously: Don’t skimp on sesame seeds and green onions; they add texture and visual appeal to your dish.

Best Side Dishes for Baked Korean BBQ Spare Ribs

Pairing your baked Korean BBQ spare ribs with complementary side dishes will create a well-rounded meal. Here are some great options:

1. Steamed Broccoli: Bright green broccoli adds nutrition and color to your plate, balancing out the richness of the ribs.
2. Pickled Vegetables: These add crunch and acidity, cutting through the sweetness of the sauce while providing an authentic Korean touch.
3. Fried Rice: A savory fried rice loaded with vegetables can serve as a hearty base for your meal.
4. Miso Soup: This warm soup provides umami flavors that harmonize beautifully with the rich taste of the ribs.
5. Roasted Sweet Potatoes: Their natural sweetness pairs well with BBQ flavors and offers a healthy option on your plate.
6. Grilled Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn brings a delightful charred flavor when grilled, making it an enjoyable side alongside sticky ribs.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When preparing Baked Korean BBQ Spare Ribs, small mistakes can lead to big flavor losses. Here are some common pitfalls to steer clear of:

• Overcooking the ribs: This can lead to tough meat. Keep an eye on the cooking time and check for fork tenderness.
• Skipping the marinating step: Not allowing enough time for marination can result in bland ribs. Aim for at least 8 hours, or overnight for best flavor.
• Not searing before baking: Skipping the searing process may prevent the ribs from developing a rich color and flavor. Always sear them first.
• Ignoring leftover marinade: Discarding all marinade instead of using some on top of the ribs can waste flavor. Save a portion to enhance the final dish.
• Using cold ribs straight from the fridge: Cooking cold meat can lead to uneven cooking. Let them sit out for about 30 minutes before you start cooking.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Keep for up to 3 days in the fridge.

Freezing Baked Korean BBQ Spare Ribs

• Wrap tightly in plastic wrap or foil, then place in a freezer-safe container.
• Freeze for up to 3 months for best quality.

Reheating Baked Korean BBQ Spare Ribs

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F and cover with foil. Heat for about 20-25 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place ribs in a microwave-safe dish, cover loosely, and heat on medium power for 2-3 minutes. Check and adjust as needed.
• Stovetop: Use a skillet over medium heat with a splash of water or broth. Cover and heat until warmed through, stirring occasionally.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions people have about Baked Korean BBQ Spare Ribs:

Can I use different cuts of meat?

Yes, while flanken-style short ribs are recommended, you can also use beef short ribs or even chicken thighs for a lighter option.

How do I know when the ribs are done?

The ribs should be fork-tender when cooked properly. You can also use a meat thermometer; they should reach an internal temperature of at least 145°F.

Can I make this recipe spicy?

Absolutely! If you want more heat, increase the amount of sriracha or add some chili flakes to the marinade.

What should I serve with Baked Korean BBQ Spare Ribs?

These flavorful ribs pair well with fluffy white rice, kimchi, or crunchy cabbage salad for a balanced meal.

How long do leftovers last?

Leftover Baked Korean BBQ Spare Ribs can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 3 months.

Final Thoughts

Baked Korean BBQ Spare Ribs offer a delightful mix of flavors that are sure to impress your family and friends. Their sticky sweetness and savory notes make them perfect for any occasion. Feel free to customize your marinade by adding your favorite spices or adjusting the sweetness level to suit your taste!