Hawaiian Hoisin Glazed Baby Back Pork Ribs
These mouthwatering, glistening, finger-licking good ribs are inspired by the famous recipe served at Mauna Lani Bay Hotel and Bungalows’ Canoe House restaurant in Hawaii. Known for their balance of sweet, savory, and tangy flavors, these Hawaiian Hoisin Glazed Baby Back Pork Ribs make for an unforgettable dish, whether served as an appetizer or a hearty entrée. Tender and juicy, each bite will have you reaching for more, with the ribs falling off the bone and the sauce caramelized to perfection. Get ready for a true taste of Hawaii!
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Ketchup | 1 cup |
| Hoisin sauce | 3/4 cup |
| Honey | 1/2 cup |
| Soy sauce | 5 tablespoons |
| Dry sherry | 5 tablespoons |
| White wine vinegar | 1/4 cup |
| Sesame seeds | 2 tablespoons |
| Curry powder | 1/4 teaspoon |
| Orange zest | 2 teaspoons |
| Fermented black beans (optional) | 2 teaspoons |
| Garlic (minced) | 2 cloves |
| Baby back pork ribs | 2 racks |
Nutritional Information (per serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 825.1 kcal |
| Fat | 47.7 g |
| Saturated Fat | 14.7 g |
| Cholesterol | 157.4 mg |
| Sodium | 2002 mg |
| Carbohydrates | 53 g |
| Fiber | 3.1 g |
| Sugars | 41.5 g |
| Protein | 48.3 g |
Recipe Preparation
| Preparation Step | Details |
|---|---|
| 1. Prepare the sauce | In a large bowl, whisk together all ingredients except the ribs. This will create a flavorful glaze with a mix of hoisin sauce, honey, soy sauce, vinegar, and spices. |
| 2. Prep the ribs | Divide the baby back pork ribs into two large baking dishes. This allows for even coating with the sauce and ensures they cook properly. |
| 3. Marinate the ribs | Brush the ribs generously with half of the prepared sauce, then cover the ribs and the remaining sauce separately. Refrigerate overnight to allow flavors to meld. |
| 4. Preheat the oven | Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This is the perfect temperature for roasting the ribs, ensuring they cook slowly and absorb the rich flavors of the glaze. |
| 5. Roast the ribs | Transfer the marinated ribs onto heavy, large baking sheets. Roast in the oven for about 1 hour, basting frequently with the remaining sauce to keep them moist and flavorful. |
| 6. Simmer the remaining sauce | While the ribs roast, pour the remaining sauce into a small saucepan and bring to a simmer over medium heat. Let it reduce and thicken slightly for a richer flavor. |
| 7. Finish the ribs | Once the ribs are tender and cooked through, transfer them to a serving platter. Cut them into individual ribs and drizzle with the simmered sauce. |
| 8. Serve | Serve the Hawaiian Hoisin Glazed Baby Back Pork Ribs with the remaining sauce on the side. These are best enjoyed with a pile of napkins, as they’re sticky and delicious! |
Tips for the Perfect Ribs
- Marinate Overnight: The longer the ribs marinate in the hoisin glaze, the more the flavors will penetrate the meat, making them even more tender and flavorful.
- Basting is Key: Regularly baste the ribs with the remaining sauce while roasting to ensure they don’t dry out and develop that irresistible caramelized glaze.
- Don’t Skip the Simmer: Reducing the remaining sauce on the stove will thicken it and intensify the flavors, making it the perfect finishing touch to the dish.
Chef’s Notes:
These Hawaiian Hoisin Glazed Baby Back Pork Ribs are a true celebration of Hawaiian flavors, combining the savory depth of soy sauce and hoisin with the sweetness of honey and a hint of spice from curry powder. Whether you’re serving these ribs at a summer BBQ, a special family dinner, or a Hawaiian-themed party, they’re guaranteed to impress. The balance of sweet, savory, and tangy flavors makes them stand out as a tropical delight that’s perfect for any occasion. Enjoy them with a chilled glass of pineapple juice or a tropical cocktail to truly embrace the island vibe.
About the Recipe
This recipe was inspired by Chef Alan Wong, one of Hawaii’s celebrated chefs, and is featured in The New Cuisine of Hawaii, a collection of recipes from twelve celebrated chefs of Hawaiian Regional Cuisine.
Recipe Servings:
This recipe serves 6, making it perfect for a family dinner or as a standout appetizer for a party.
Enjoy these tender, flavorful Hawaiian Hoisin Glazed Baby Back Pork Ribs that will have everyone coming back for more!
