Cut the ribs to make 4 portions. This will also allow the ribs to fit in a pot properly for even cooking.
Place the ribs in a large pot of water together with the onion, bay leaves and peppercorns. Season well with salt.
Cover and bring the boil, reduce heat and simmer gently for about 90 minutes or until tender and meat is coming away from the bone.
Preheat the oven to 240 Degrees Celsius.
Carefully remove from the pot using a tongs and place onto a baking tray.
Mix the basting sauce ingredients together. Pour all of the sauce over the meat and make sure it is well basted by using a brush.
Roast uncovered for 25 minutes until sticky. Baste twice more during the roasting process. These ribs can also be braaied over moderately hot coals for 15 - 20 minutes with continuous basting.
For the slaw, place the vinegar, honey and mustard in a medium bowl and whisk until well combined. Slowly add the oil in a steady stream, whisking all the while until the dressing becomes thick. Season to taste with salt and pepper.
Add the slaw mix, apple and fennel to the bowl and toss until well dressed. Season again to taste.
As an option, feel free to add some fresh garlic to the dressing or thinly sliced red onion or chopped chives to the slaw.
Serve the hot sticky ribs immediately and enjoy with the light & crunchy slaw.