For a mouthwatering, spicy, and savory twist on classic ribs, Gochujang Glazed Pork Ribs are an absolute must-try. These pork ribs are slathered in a rich, smoky-sweet Gochujang sauce, creating the perfect balance of heat, umami, and sweetness. Slow-cooked or baked to tender perfection, these ribs are caramelized on the outside and juicy on the inside. Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or enjoying a special family meal, these ribs will be the star of the show.
1. Why You’ll Love Gochujang Glazed Pork Ribs
These ribs are packed with flavor and are bound to become a favorite in your recipe rotation. Here’s why they’re so amazing:
🌶️ Bold and Flavorful
The Gochujang glaze brings a delicious mix of heat, umami, and sweetness, creating a mouthwatering sauce that perfectly complements the tender pork ribs.
🍖 Tender and Juicy
With the right cooking method, the pork ribs are tender, fall-off-the-bone juicy, and full of flavor, making each bite incredibly satisfying.
🍽️ Simple Ingredients, Big Flavor
Using pantry staples like Gochujang, soy sauce, honey, and garlic, these ribs pack a punch without needing complicated ingredients or techniques.
⏱️ Perfect for Any Occasion
These ribs are perfect for casual dinners, barbecues, or even a special occasion. They’re easy to prepare and will impress everyone at the table.
2. Ingredients for Gochujang Glazed Pork Ribs
This simple, flavorful recipe requires just a few key ingredients to bring the ribs to life:
🍖 For the Pork Ribs:
- 2 racks of pork ribs (about 3 lbs total)
- Salt and pepper (to taste)
🌶️ For the Gochujang Glaze:
- 3 tablespoons Gochujang (Korean chili paste)
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
- 3 tablespoons honey (or maple syrup)
- 2 tablespoons rice vinegar (or apple cider vinegar)
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
- 1 teaspoon toasted sesame seeds (optional for garnish)
- 2-3 chopped green onions (optional for garnish)
3. How to Make Gochujang Glazed Pork Ribs
This recipe is straightforward, with a few key steps that deliver big flavor. Let’s dive in!
🔥 Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Pork Ribs
- Preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C).
- Remove the membrane from the back of the ribs (this is the thin, silver skin that can make the ribs tough). Use a knife to loosen the membrane and pull it off.
- Season the ribs generously with salt and pepper on both sides.
2. Make the Gochujang Glaze
- In a medium bowl, whisk together Gochujang, soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, sesame oil, garlic, and ginger. Taste the sauce and adjust seasoning as needed — you can add more honey for sweetness or more Gochujang for heat.
3. Slow Cook the Ribs
- Place the ribs on a baking sheet lined with foil or parchment paper. Cover them with foil to retain moisture and cook for 2.5–3 hours in the preheated oven. The ribs should be tender and cooked through but still holding their shape.
4. Glaze the Ribs
- After the ribs have cooked, remove them from the oven and discard the top layer of foil. Brush the ribs generously with the Gochujang glaze on both sides.
- Increase the oven temperature to 400°F (200°C). Return the ribs to the oven, uncovered, and bake for an additional 10–15 minutes, or until the glaze has caramelized and become sticky.
5. Finish and Serve
- Once the ribs are glazed and caramelized, remove them from the oven. Let them rest for 5–10 minutes before cutting into individual ribs.
- Garnish with toasted sesame seeds and chopped green onions for added flavor and texture.
4. Why Gochujang Glazed Pork Ribs Are So Delicious
These ribs are special for several reasons:
🍖 Perfect Balance of Flavor
The Gochujang glaze is the star — its complex flavor profile, which combines heat, tanginess, and a little sweetness, brings a unique twist to traditional barbecue ribs.
🍯 Tender, Juicy Meat
By slow-cooking the ribs at a low temperature, the meat becomes tender and easily pulls away from the bone, making each bite melt in your mouth.
🌶️ The Heat Factor
Gochujang provides a deep heat that’s more flavorful than regular hot sauce, with a subtle sweetness that enhances the richness of the pork.
5. Serving Suggestions for Gochujang Glazed Pork Ribs
These Gochujang glazed pork ribs are the perfect centerpiece, and they pair well with a variety of sides:
🍚 With Rice:
- Serve with steamed white rice, brown rice, or cauliflower rice to balance out the rich, spicy glaze.
🥗 Fresh Vegetables:
- Pair with a simple cucumber salad, Asian slaw, or pickled vegetables for a light, refreshing contrast to the richness of the ribs.
🍠 Roasted Potatoes:
- Roasted sweet potatoes or crispy potato wedges complement the sweet-spicy glaze and provide a satisfying side dish.
🍜 Noodles:
- Serve alongside noodles like soba noodles or ramen to make it a complete meal.
6. Storage and Reheating Tips
If you have leftovers, here’s how to store and enjoy them again:
🧊 Storing Leftovers:
- Allow the ribs to cool to room temperature. Store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3–4 days.
🔁 Reheating:
- To reheat, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and cover the ribs loosely with foil. Bake for 15–20 minutes, or until heated through.
- Alternatively, you can microwave individual portions for 2–3 minutes.
❄️ Freezing:
- To freeze, wrap the ribs tightly in plastic wrap and foil, then store in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
✅ FAQs – Gochujang Glazed Pork Ribs
1. Can I use boneless pork ribs for this recipe?
Yes, you can use boneless pork ribs. Just adjust the cooking time, as boneless ribs cook faster — about 1.5–2 hours in the oven.
2. Can I make this recipe on the grill?
Yes! After slow cooking the ribs, grill them on medium heat for 3–4 minutes per side to caramelize the glaze. Brush with additional glaze while grilling.
3. Can I make the glaze ahead of time?
Yes, you can make the Gochujang glaze in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to 1 week. Just warm it up before using.
4. How can I make this dish less spicy?
Reduce the amount of Gochujang or add more honey to balance out the heat. You can also substitute with mild chili paste if you prefer less spice.
5. Can I use a slow cooker for this recipe?
Yes! Sear the ribs first, then add them to a slow cooker with the glaze. Cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, until tender.
6. Can I use beef ribs instead of pork?
Yes, you can swap pork ribs for beef ribs, but note that beef ribs may require longer cooking times. Follow the same process, adjusting the cook time as necessary.
7. Is Gochujang gluten-free?
Most Gochujang sauces contain gluten, but there are gluten-free varieties available. Look for tamari-based Gochujang or check labels to ensure it’s gluten-free.
8. Can I add vegetables to the glaze?
Yes! You can add sautéed mushrooms or onions to the glaze for extra texture and flavor. Just add them when you mix the glaze for the ribs.
9. Can I use this glaze on chicken or fish?
Absolutely! This Gochujang glaze is versatile and works wonderfully on chicken, tofu, or even grilled fish. Adjust the cooking time for different proteins.
10. How do I know when the ribs are done?
The ribs are done when they’re fork-tender and easily pull away from the bone. The internal temperature should reach 190°F (88°C) for optimal tenderness.
Gochujang Glazed Pork Ribs are rich, savory, and full of bold flavors. Whether you’re grilling, baking, or slow-cooking, these ribs are guaranteed to be a hit. Want more recipe ideas or need a side suggestion? Just ask! 🍖🌶️🔥