Be it a summer cookout or a cozy family dinner, sweet and spicy rib tips are an unforgettable treat. Growing up, my family and I often gathered to enjoy mouthwatering beef dishes, and these rib tips always stole the spotlight. With tender meat that’s perfectly glazed, this recipe invites everyone to savor every bite and creates lasting memories.

What’s the Story Behind Sweet and Spicy Rib Tips?
Rib dishes have a rich history in various culinary traditions, especially in Asian cuisine, where flavors are bold and diverse. In Korea, gochujang, a fermented chili paste, holds a prominent place in many recipes. This dish marries the essence of Korean cuisine with traditional American barbecue styles, creating a delightful fusion for food lovers. The combination of sweet, spicy, and savory brings an exciting twist to a staple dish.
By incorporating unique ingredients like gochujang, these rib tips stand out from the regular barbecue ribs. This twist makes them a go-to dish for anyone looking to explore global flavors from their kitchens. If you’re seeking inspiration, check out high-protein chili cheese toasts for another exciting experience.
What’s in the Sweet and Spicy Rib Tips?
Curious about what goes into these delicious sweet and spicy rib tips? Let’s take a look at the key players!

| Ingredients |
|---|
| beef rib tips |
| gochujang |
| brown sugar |
| soy sauce |
| garlic |
| ginger |
| apple cider vinegar |
| black pepper |
| green onions for garnish |
Each ingredient plays a vital role in enhancing flavors and textures. For instance, gochujang contains glutinous rice that adds complexity to the rib tips while making them spicy yet sweet. While soy sauce introduces a savory umami note, fresh garlic and ginger contribute aromatic qualities that enhance taste. Apple cider vinegar offers a nice tang, balancing out the sweetness from the brown sugar, making every bite satisfying.
How Do You Make Sweet and Spicy Rib Tips Step by Step?
If you are ready to create these delicious rib tips, follow these straightforward steps.
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
First, preheat the oven to 300°F or set your Instant Pot to the sauté setting. This helps create the right cooking environment for your rib tips, ensuring they cook evenly.
Step 2: Make the Glaze
In a bowl, combine the gochujang, brown sugar, soy sauce, minced garlic, grated ginger, apple cider vinegar, and black pepper. Whisk the ingredients together until well-blended, creating a luscious glaze.
| Time Required | Prep | Cook |
|---|---|---|
| Prep: 20 min | Cook: 3-4 hours (oven) or 35 min (Instant Pot) |
Step 3: Marinate and Cook
Coat the beef rib tips in the glaze and let them marinate for at least 30 minutes, allowing the flavors to infuse into the meat. Then, choose your cooking method: for the oven, place rib tips in a baking dish, cover with foil, and bake for about 3-4 hours until tender. If using an Instant Pot, add a cup of water, seal the lid, and cook on high pressure for about 35 minutes.
After cooking, remove the ribs from their cooking vessel and optionally reduce the glaze over medium heat to thicken; brush it over the rib tips before serving. Finally, garnish with chopped green onions, and devour the delicate flavors of your Sweet and Spicy Rib Tips!
What Makes This Recipe Work?
This recipe captivates with its incredible balance of flavors and tender texture. Marinating the rib tips allows the flavors to infuse deeply into the meat, creating a savory glaze that caramelizes beautifully during cooking.
The Magic of Gochujang
Gochujang is a staple in Korean cuisine known for its unique spicy-sweet taste. This chili paste’s umami kick elevates ordinary dishes, making them extraordinary. Paired with brown sugar, it helps create a luscious glaze that hugs the rib tips in rich flavor.
<h3.The Importance of Marination
Marinating the rib tips is essential for flavor penetration. A good marinate allows enzymes to break down proteins, resulting in tender and juicy meat. If you’re short on time, even a brief marination of 30 minutes can enhance the flavor remarkably.
<h3.Cooking Method Matters
Both oven and Instant Pot methods produce different results. While the oven imparts a deep caramelization, the Instant Pot makes for a quick, tender finish. Choosing either method will yield delicious results while adhering to personal preferences for texture.
Discover quality ingredients that ensure great results at your favorite grocery store while exploring more flavor-packed recipes such as creamy cheesy keto chicken. Alternatively, reading about the history of gochujang on Wikipedia can deepen your appreciation for this ingredient.
Variations & Serving Ideas
Feeling adventurous? There are numerous ways to customize these sweet and spicy rib tips to suit your palate.
Experiment with Flavors
Try adding a splash of sesame oil or a sprinkle of sesame seeds to introduce nutty notes. For a fruity twist, fresh pineapple juice can be incorporated into the marinade for added sweetness.
| Serving Ideas |
|---|
| Serve with steamed rice or quinoa |
| Pair with a refreshing salad |
| Use as a filling for tacos with fresh toppings |
| Serve at gatherings with assorted dipping sauces |
Make it a Meal
These rib tips can shine on a plate with coleslaw or grilled veggies, creating a gorgeous, colorful meal. Don’t forget to check out the cheeseburger macaroni soup for another hearty option!
Add a Squeeze of Citrus
A squeeze of lime or lemon just before serving brightens and enhances the overall flavor without overpowering the dish. Try them alongside roasted sweet potatoes for a stunning contrast of flavors.
Final Thoughts
Sweet and Spicy Rib Tips become a delightful centerpiece for gatherings and lazy Sunday dinners alike. The blend of spicy and sweet flavors makes it a pleasurable experience that invites family and friends to savor together.
After making these rib tips, I encourage you to share the joy of cooking and invite others to join in. If you’re ever in need of creative culinary inspiration, follow my Pinterest page for countless ideas on delicious recipes like these!
FAQ
How can I store leftover rib tips?
Leftover rib tips can be refrigerated in an airtight container for up to three days. To reheat, you can bake them in the oven or microwave, adding a little water to maintain moisture.
Can I freeze sweet and spicy rib tips?
Yes, fully cooked rib tips can be frozen for up to three months. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap, followed by aluminum foil, to prevent freezer burn.
What can I substitute for gochujang?
If gochujang is unavailable, you can make a quick substitute using a mix of miso paste, chili powder, and a little sugar to mimic the sweet, spicy flavor.
Can I make rib tips on the grill?
Yes, you can grill the rib tips as well. After marinating, preheat the grill on medium heat and cook the rib tips until browned and caramelized, basting with the glaze regularly.
What side dishes pair well with these rib tips?
Complement the rib tips with sides like coleslaw, grilled vegetables, or rice to soak up that delicious glaze. A fresh salad can also balance the richness of the dish.

Sweet and Spicy Rib Tips
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These Sweet and Spicy Rib Tips blend tangy, spicy, and sweet notes perfectly, making every bite an explosion of flavors.
- Total Time: 260 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Ingredients
- 2 lbs beef rib tips
- 2 tablespoons gochujang
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon ginger, grated
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- Green onions for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 300°F or set the Instant Pot to the sauté setting.
- In a bowl, combine gochujang, brown sugar, soy sauce, minced garlic, grated ginger, apple cider vinegar, and black pepper. Whisk until well-blended.
- Coat the beef rib tips in the glaze and marinate for at least 30 minutes.
- For oven cooking, place the rib tips in a baking dish, cover with foil, and bake for 3-4 hours until tender. For Instant Pot, add a cup of water, seal the lid, and cook on high pressure for 35 minutes.
- Remove the ribs and optionally reduce the glaze over medium heat to thicken. Brush over rib tips, garnish with chopped green onions, and serve.
Notes
For added flavor, consider incorporating a splash of sesame oil or fresh pineapple juice into the marinade.
- Author: Sarah Mitchell
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 240 minutes
- Category: Main course
- Method: Grilling/Baking
- Cuisine: Korean-American
- Diet: High Protein
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 12g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 90mg







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