Are you craving a flavorful and satisfying meal that's surprisingly easy to make? Look no further! These Chinese Spare Rib Tips are a quick dinner idea, perfect for busy weeknights or a delightful weekend treat. This recipe delivers tender, fall-off-the-bone ribs bursting with the aromatic flavors of ginger, garlic, and soy sauce. It's a delicious dish that's both healthy and incredibly satisfying – a true testament to the magic of homemade cooking. Get ready to impress your family and friends with this easy recipe!
Ingredients:
- 1.5 lbs pork spare ribs, cut into 2-inch pieces
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon oyster sauce (optional, but adds depth of flavor)
- 1 tablespoon rice wine or dry sherry
- 1 tablespoon honey or brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 1 teaspoon grated ginger
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon sesame oil
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
Instructions:
Step 1: Marinate the Ribs
In a large bowl, combine the soy sauce, oyster sauce (if using), rice wine, honey, cornstarch, ginger, garlic, sesame oil, and black pepper. Add the spare ribs and toss gently to coat evenly. Let the ribs marinate for at least 30 minutes, or preferably longer in the refrigerator for maximum flavor. This step is crucial for tender and flavorful ribs.
Step 2: Sear the Ribs
Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the marinated ribs and sear on all sides until lightly browned. This step helps to develop a delicious crust on the ribs. Don't overcrowd the pan; work in batches if necessary.
Step 3: Braising the Ribs
Reduce the heat to medium-low, cover the skillet, and let the ribs simmer for about 20-25 minutes, or until they are tender and the sauce has thickened. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. If the sauce becomes too thick before the ribs are tender, add a tablespoon or two of water.
Step 4: Serve and Enjoy
Once the ribs are cooked through and tender, remove the lid and let the sauce reduce further for a few more minutes until it coats the ribs nicely. Serve hot with steamed rice or noodles.
Cooking Tips for the Best Results:
- For extra tender ribs, consider using a pressure cooker or slow cooker. Adjust the cooking time according to your appliance's instructions.
- Feel free to add other vegetables, such as bell peppers or onions, during the braising process.
- If you prefer a spicier dish, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the marinade.
- Don't be afraid to experiment with different types of sauces. Hoisin sauce or teriyaki sauce would also be delicious additions.
Variations:
- Spicy Ribs: Add a teaspoon or two of chili garlic sauce to the marinade for a spicy kick.
- Sweet and Sour Ribs: Increase the amount of honey or brown sugar in the marinade for a sweeter flavor profile.
- Garlic Lovers: Add more minced garlic to the marinade for a stronger garlic flavor.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This information is an estimate and will vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes.
- Calories: Approximately 300-350
- Protein: Approximately 25-30g
- Fat: Approximately 15-20g
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 10-15g
These Chinese Spare Rib Tips are a fantastic addition to your repertoire of easy recipes and healthy meals. The combination of sweet, savory, and slightly spicy flavors makes this dish an absolute winner. Enjoy!