BBQ Pork Ribs, known in Thailand as Si Khrong Moo Yang, are a mouthwatering dish featuring tender pork ribs marinated in a flavorful blend of Thai herbs, garlic, coriander root, soy sauce, and spices before being grilled or roasted until perfectly caramelized. The result is juicy meat that falls off the bone, coated in a sweet, savory, and smoky glaze.

Popular at Thai street food stalls, barbecue restaurants, and family gatherings, these ribs offer a delicious fusion of traditional Thai flavors and classic barbecue techniques.

What are Thai BBQ Pork Ribs?

Thai BBQ Pork Ribs are pork ribs marinated with aromatic seasonings and slow-cooked until tender. Unlike many Western-style ribs that rely heavily on tomato-based sauces, Thai ribs focus on a balance of sweet, salty, garlicky, and herbaceous flavors, often enhanced with palm sugar, fish sauce, and coriander root.

The ribs are then grilled over charcoal or roasted and finished with a glossy glaze for extra flavor.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

  • Tender, juicy meat
  • Rich Thai-inspired marinade
  • Smoky and caramelized exterior
  • Perfect for barbecues and gatherings
  • Easy to prepare ahead of time
  • Authentic Thai street food flavor

Ingredients

For the Ribs

  • 1.5 kg pork ribs, cut into serving portions

For the Marinade

  • 6 cloves garlic
  • 3 coriander roots (or 2 tablespoons coriander stems)
  • 1 teaspoon white pepper
  • 2 tablespoons fish sauce
  • 2 tablespoons light soy sauce
  • 1 tablespoon oyster sauce
  • 2 tablespoons palm sugar
  • 1 tablespoon vegetable oil

For the BBQ Glaze

  • 3 tablespoons honey
  • 2 tablespoons oyster sauce
  • 1 tablespoon soy sauce
  • 1 tablespoon lime juice

For Garnish

  • Fresh cilantro
  • Lime wedges
  • Sliced red chili

Equipment Needed

  • Grill, barbecue, or oven
  • Mortar and pestle (or food processor)
  • Mixing bowl
  • Basting brush
  • Tongs
  • Baking tray (if roasting)

Preparation Time

  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Marinating Time: 4–12 hours
  • Cook Time: 1½–2 hours
  • Total Time: Approximately 6–14 hours
  • Servings: 4–6

Step 1: Prepare the Marinade

Using a mortar and pestle, pound together:

  • Garlic
  • Coriander roots
  • White pepper

Until a smooth paste forms.

Transfer to a bowl and mix with:

  • Fish sauce
  • Soy sauce
  • Oyster sauce
  • Palm sugar
  • Vegetable oil

Stir until the sugar dissolves.

Step 2: Marinate the Ribs

Place the ribs in a large bowl or resealable bag.

Rub the marinade thoroughly over all sides.

Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight.

Step 3: Prepare the Glaze

In a small bowl, combine:

  • Honey
  • Oyster sauce
  • Soy sauce
  • Lime juice

Mix well and set aside.

Step 4: Cook the Ribs

Grill Method

Preheat the grill to medium-low heat.

Place the ribs over indirect heat.

Cook for 1½–2 hours, turning occasionally.

Oven Method

Preheat the oven to 160°C (320°F).

Place the ribs on a baking tray and cover with foil.

Bake for 1½ hours until tender.

Step 5: Apply the Glaze

During the final 20 minutes of cooking, brush the ribs generously with the BBQ glaze.

Continue cooking while turning and basting every few minutes.

The glaze will caramelize and create a beautiful shiny coating.

Step 6: Rest the Ribs

Remove the ribs from the grill or oven.

Allow them to rest for 5–10 minutes before serving.

Step 7: Garnish and Serve

Arrange the ribs on a serving platter.

Garnish with:

  • Fresh cilantro
  • Sliced red chili
  • Lime wedges

Serve hot.

Chef’s Tips

  • Marinate overnight for the best flavor.
  • Slow cooking ensures tender, fall-off-the-bone ribs.
  • Charcoal grilling adds authentic smoky flavor.
  • Avoid high heat, which can burn the glaze.
  • Brush multiple layers of glaze for a richer finish.

Variations

Spicy Thai BBQ Ribs

Add Thai bird’s eye chilies or chili flakes to the marinade.

Tamarind BBQ Ribs

Mix tamarind paste into the glaze for a sweet-sour flavor.

Honey Garlic Ribs

Increase the honey and garlic for a sweeter profile.

Lemongrass BBQ Ribs

Add finely minced lemongrass to the marinade for extra aroma.

Health Benefits

Pork ribs provide:

  • High-quality protein
  • Iron and zinc
  • B vitamins
  • Essential minerals for energy and muscle health

When served with fresh vegetables and herbs, the meal becomes more balanced and nutritious.

Serving Suggestions

Thai BBQ Pork Ribs pair perfectly with:

  • Sticky rice (Khao Niao)
  • Papaya salad (Som Tam)
  • Grilled vegetables
  • Thai cucumber salad
  • Fresh herbs and lettuce
  • Spicy dipping sauce

Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Reheat in an oven at 180°C (350°F) until warmed through.

Ribs can also be frozen for up to 2 months.

Final Thoughts

BBQ Pork Ribs (Si Khrong Moo Yang) are a delicious Thai-style barbecue dish that combines tender pork, aromatic herbs, and a sweet-savory glaze into an irresistible meal. Whether cooked on a charcoal grill or in the oven, these ribs deliver bold flavors, smoky aromas, and melt-in-your-mouth texture.

Serve them with sticky rice, fresh vegetables, and a tangy dipping sauce for an authentic Thai barbecue experience that everyone will love.