Are you a fan of Honey Baked Ham’s delicious sandwiches and ready-to-go products?
Did you know they also offer fully cooked ribs with a variety of sauces to choose from?
If you’ve been curious about trying them out but aren’t sure how to cook them, look no further!
In this article, we’ll walk you through the steps to prepare and cook Honey Baked Ham ribs to perfection.
Whether you’re a seasoned grill master or a novice in the kitchen, these mouth-watering ribs are sure to impress your taste buds and your guests.
So grab your apron and let’s get cooking!
How To Cook Honey Baked Ham Ribs?
Before we dive into the cooking process, it’s important to note that Honey Baked Ham ribs come fully cooked and only need to be heated up.
To start, remove the membrane or silverskin from the bottom side of the ribs. This can easily be done by using a knife to slide under the silverskin and pulling it off in one swipe.
Next, preheat your grill to 300F. While the grill is heating up, mix together your desired glaze ingredients in a large bowl.
Brush the pork ribs generously with the glaze on both sides and place them on the grill. Cover with the lid and keep a close eye on the temperature to make sure it stays at 300F.
Brush the ribs with the remaining glaze every 20 minutes until they’re fully cooked, which should take about 60-75 minutes.
If you prefer to heat up your ribs in the oven, defrost them in the refrigerator first and preheat your oven to 350oF. Remove from package and heat uncovered in a roasting pan until the internal temperature reaches 120oF. This should take approximately 15 to 20 minutes per pound. Alternatively, you can microwave on medium power for approximately 6 minutes per pound.
Preparation: Getting Your Ribs Ready
If you’re starting with uncooked ribs, the first step is to prepare them for cooking. Begin by removing the membrane or silverskin from the back of the ribs. This can be done by using a knife to slide under the silverskin and pulling it off in one swipe. Removing this layer will allow for more flavor to penetrate the meat and prevent it from becoming tough during cooking.
Once the membrane has been removed, it’s time to season the ribs. You can use your favorite dry rub or create your own by mixing together spices such as paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Coat the ribs generously on both sides with the dry rub and let them rest in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. This will allow the flavors to penetrate the meat and create a delicious crust on the outside.
If you prefer a sweeter flavor, you can also add a glaze to your ribs. Mix together ingredients such as honey, brown sugar, mustard, and apple cider vinegar to create a sticky and sweet glaze that will caramelize on the outside of the ribs during cooking.
When it’s time to cook your ribs, preheat your smoker or grill to 225°F. Place the seasoned ribs on the smoker or grill and let them cook for two hours without opening the door. This will allow for maximum smoke absorption and flavor infusion.
After two hours, check to see if a bark has developed on the outside of the ribs. If so, gently mop or spray them with your glaze for the first time and continue cooking for another hour. Repeat this process until you’re happy with the color and internal temperature of the meat.
If you’re using the 3-2-1 technique, wrap your ribs in foil or butcher paper after three hours of cooking and continue cooking for another two hours. Unwrap them and cook for one more hour before saucing and searing or slow-cooking with sauce on for an additional 30-60 minutes.
With these preparation tips, your Honey Baked Ham ribs will be ready to cook and enjoy in no time!
Cooking Method: Oven Vs. Grill
When it comes to cooking Honey Baked Ham ribs, there are two main methods: oven and grill. Both methods have their advantages and disadvantages, and the choice ultimately comes down to personal preference.
Oven cooking is a popular method because it’s easy and convenient. To cook Honey Baked Ham ribs in the oven, preheat your oven to 350oF and place the ribs in a roasting pan. Heat uncovered until the internal temperature reaches 120oF, which should take approximately 15 to 20 minutes per pound. Alternatively, you can microwave on medium power for approximately 6 minutes per pound. One downside to oven cooking is that the ribs may not have that smoky flavor that grilling provides.
Grilling is another popular method for cooking Honey Baked Ham ribs. Grilling gives the ribs a smoky flavor and a nice charred crust. To grill the ribs, preheat your grill to 300F and brush the pork ribs generously with your desired glaze on both sides. Place them on the grill, cover with the lid, and keep a close eye on the temperature to make sure it stays at 300F. Brush the ribs with the remaining glaze every 20 minutes until they’re fully cooked, which should take about 60-75 minutes. One downside to grilling is that it requires more attention and effort than oven cooking.
Ultimately, whether you choose to cook your Honey Baked Ham ribs in the oven or on the grill, make sure to keep a close eye on them to prevent overcooking or burning. With a little bit of effort, you’ll have delicious, juicy ribs that are sure to please everyone at your next gathering.
Temperature And Time: Perfecting Your Cook
When it comes to cooking Honey Baked Ham ribs, getting the temperature and timing just right is crucial. While the ribs are already fully cooked, they still need to be heated up to ensure they’re hot and juicy.
If you’re using a grill, preheat it to 300F and keep a close eye on the temperature throughout the cooking process. It’s important to maintain a consistent temperature to ensure even cooking. Brush the ribs with your desired glaze every 20 minutes until they’re fully cooked, which should take about 60-75 minutes.
If you prefer to use an oven, preheat it to 350F and defrost the ribs in the refrigerator first. Once they’re ready, place them in a roasting pan and heat uncovered until the internal temperature reaches 120F. This should take approximately 15 to 20 minutes per pound.
It’s important not to overcook the ribs as this can cause them to become dry and tough. Keep a close eye on the internal temperature using a meat thermometer and remove them from the heat once they reach 120F-140F.
Adding Flavor: Sauces And Seasonings
While the Honey Baked Ham ribs are already flavorful on their own, adding a sauce or seasoning can take them to the next level. Here are some options to consider:
1. Honey Glaze: Mix together honey, brown sugar, melted butter, ground cloves, garlic powder, and Dijon mustard for a sweet and tangy glaze. Brush it on the ribs before grilling or baking for a delicious finish.
2. Dry Rub: Combine your favorite spices such as paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, pepper, and brown sugar to create a dry rub. Rub it generously on the ribs before cooking for a flavorful crust.
3. Barbecue Sauce: Brush your favorite barbecue sauce on the ribs during the last 10-15 minutes of cooking to add a smoky and tangy flavor.
4. Mustard Sauce: Mix together Dijon mustard, honey, apple cider vinegar, and a pinch of cayenne pepper for a tangy and slightly spicy sauce. Brush it on the ribs before or after cooking for a delicious kick.
5. Pineapple Glaze: Combine pineapple juice, brown sugar, soy sauce, and ginger for a sweet and savory glaze. Brush it on the ribs during the last 20 minutes of cooking for a tropical twist.
No matter which sauce or seasoning you choose, make sure to brush it on the ribs generously for maximum flavor. Experiment with different combinations to find your favorite!
Serving And Enjoying: Tips For The Best Experience
Once your Honey Baked Ham ribs are fully cooked, it’s time to serve and enjoy! Here are some tips for the best experience:
1. Let the ribs rest: Before cutting into your delicious Honey Baked Ham ribs, let them rest for about 10 minutes. This will allow the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, resulting in a more tender and flavorful bite.
2. Slice against the grain: When slicing your ribs, be sure to cut against the grain. This will make them easier to chew and result in a more tender bite.
3. Pair with sides: Honey Baked Ham ribs are a great addition to any meal, but they pair especially well with classic BBQ sides like coleslaw, baked beans, and cornbread.
4. Save leftovers: If you have any leftover Honey Baked Ham ribs, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They can be reheated in the oven or microwave for a quick and easy meal later on.