Which ingredient gives the Pork Ribs their glaze?

The ingredient that gives the Pork Ribs their glaze is apple juice. This choice is particularly effective because apple juice contains natural sugars that caramelize during cooking, creating a beautiful glaze on the ribs. Additionally, the acidity in apple juice can help tenderize the meat, enhancing the flavor and texture of the ribs. This combination of sweetness and acidity makes apple juice a popular choice in marinades and glazes for pork, as it complements the savory flavor of the meat.

Other ingredients, while they could contribute different flavor profiles and textures, do not provide the same balance of sweet and acidity that apple juice offers. For instance, honey and maple syrup are quite sweet but lack the acidity that can help tenderize the meat. Soy sauce, on the other hand, adds a salty, umami flavor but does not contribute the same sweet glaze that apple juice does.