Step 1

Mix together water, garlic, onion, bay leaves, red chili flakes, Chinese five-spice, salt, and rice vinegar in a large pot. Bring to a boil, turn to low, and simmer for 15-20 minutes.

Step 2

Place ribs in the simmering broth. Return to a simmer, turn heat to low, and cook for 1 hour.

Step 3

Preheat the oven to 375 degrees F (190 degrees C). Line a baking sheet with a silicone baking mat, or coat with cooking spray.

Step 4

Whisk together soy sauce, rice vinegar, sambal oelek chili paste, Dijon mustard, ketchup, honey, brown sugar, and Chinese five-spice powder in a large bowl.

Step 5

Remove the ribs from the broth and transfer them to the bowl with the soy sauce glaze. Toss to coat.

Step 6

Transfer glazed ribs to the prepared baking sheet. Reserve extra glaze for brushing.

Step 7

Bake ribs in preheated oven for 15 minutes. Turn the ribs and brush with more glaze. Cook 15-20 more minutes, brushing occasionally with remaining glaze if desired. Remove and serve.