Craving a flavorful and satisfying meal that's surprisingly quick to make? Look no further than these incredibly tender and juicy boneless spare ribs, cooked to perfection with a delightful Chinese-inspired sauce. This easy recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner, impressing friends, or simply enjoying a delicious homemade meal. It's a fantastic example of how healthy meals can also be incredibly tasty. Get ready to experience the best of quick dinner ideas with this simple, yet stunning dish!
Ingredients:
- 1.5 lbs boneless pork spare ribs, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 1 tbsp cornstarch
- 1 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp Shaoxing rice wine (optional, but adds depth of flavor)
- 1 tbsp oyster sauce
- 1 tbsp honey
- 1 tsp grated ginger
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/4 cup chicken broth
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil
- Sesame seeds (for garnish)
- Green onions (for garnish)
Instructions:
Step 1: Marinate the Ribs
In a medium bowl, combine the boneless pork spare ribs, cornstarch, soy sauce, Shaoxing rice wine (if using), oyster sauce, honey, ginger, garlic, and black pepper. Gently toss to ensure the ribs are evenly coated. Let the mixture marinate for at least 30 minutes, or preferably 1-2 hours in the refrigerator for maximum flavor. This simple step elevates the overall taste of your dish.
Step 2: Stir-Fry the Ribs
Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the marinated ribs and stir-fry for about 5-7 minutes, until they are browned on all sides. Avoid overcrowding the pan; work in batches if necessary for even cooking.
Step 3: Simmer to Perfection
Pour the chicken broth into the skillet and bring to a simmer. Reduce the heat to low, cover, and let the ribs simmer for about 10-15 minutes, or until they are cooked through and tender. The sauce will thicken naturally during this process.
Step 4: Garnish and Serve
Once the ribs are cooked, remove the lid and let the sauce reduce slightly, if desired, for a richer consistency. Garnish with sesame seeds and chopped green onions before serving. These delicious ribs are excellent served with steamed rice, noodles, or your favorite vegetables.
Cooking Tips for Success:
- Don't skip the marinade: The marinade is key to tender, flavorful ribs. Allow ample time for the flavors to penetrate the meat.
- Adjust the sweetness: If you prefer a less sweet dish, reduce the amount of honey. Conversely, add more for extra sweetness.
- Don't overcook the ribs: Overcooked ribs will be dry and tough. Cook them until they are tender but not falling apart.
Variations:
- Spicy Ribs: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of your favorite chili sauce to the marinade for a spicy kick.
- Garlic Lovers: Increase the amount of garlic to your liking for a stronger garlic flavor.
- Lemon-Ginger Ribs: Add the zest and juice of one lemon to the marinade for a bright and refreshing twist.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This information is an estimate and may vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes.
- Calories: Approximately 300-350
- Protein: Approximately 25-30g
- Fat: Approximately 15-20g
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 10-15g
This simple recipe provides a healthy and delicious meal, perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions. The combination of tender ribs and savory sauce makes this a true crowd-pleaser, showcasing the best of food recipes and easy recipes all in one delicious dish. Enjoy!