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Chinese Barbecued Baby Back Ribs

Peer reviewed by UK recipe editorsAuthored by UK recipe editorsOriginally published 17 Jan 2026

Meets Patient’s editorial guidelines

This recipe for Chinese barbecued baby back ribs delivers a balance of sweet and savoury flavours that rival any traditional takeaway. The marinade, enriched with aromatic ginger, garlic, and rich hoisin sauce, creates a deeply glazed finish that clings perfectly to the tender meat. By finishing the ribs under the grill, you achieve those signature charred edges and a sticky, caramelised coating that makes this high-protein dish truly irresistible.

Ideal for a weekend treat or a casual dinner party, these ribs are simple to prepare and require very little hands-on effort. The baby back cut provides a lean yet succulent texture, making it a satisfying choice for those looking for a substantial, protein-packed meal. Serve these ribs with a fresh cucumber salad or steamed pak choi to balance the rich, honey-glazed flavours of the pork.

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Ingredients for Chinese Barbecued Baby Back Ribs

  • 3 tablespoons chopped peeled ginger

  • 2 tablespoons chopped garlic

  • 80ml soy sauce

  • 2 tablespoons vegetable oil

  • 120ml hoisin sauce

  • 2 tablespoons honey

  • 1.8kg baby back ribs (2 to 4 racks)

How to make Chinese Barbecued Baby Back Ribs

Preheat oven to 204°C with rack in middle. Line a 17- by 12- by 1-inch baking pan with foil.

Purée ginger, garlic, soy sauce, and oil in a blender, then transfer to a bowl and whisk in hoisin sauce and honey. Reserve 120ml sauce and coat ribs with remainder.

Arrange ribs, meaty sides down, in pan and bake, turning and basting once with some of reserved sauce halfway through baking, until cooked through, about 40 minutes.

Turn on grill. Brush ribs, meaty sides up, with remaining sauce. Grill 4 to 5 inches from heat until edges are lightly charred, 4 to 8 minutes.

Disclaimer

While every effort has been made to ensure the information is accurate and up to date, individual needs may vary and dietary requirements can differ based on personal health conditions. Always check food labels and allergen information before preparing or consuming any recipe. If you have specific health concerns, allergies, intolerances, or are following a medically prescribed diet, seek advice from your GP, pharmacist, or a registered dietitian before making significant changes to your diet or lifestyle.

Article history

The information on this page is peer reviewed by qualified clinicians.

  • 17 Jan 2026 | Originally published

    Authored by:

    UK recipe editors

    Peer reviewed by

    UK recipe editors
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