Are you craving a flavorful and satisfying meal that's surprisingly easy to make? Look no further! This Foodland Sweet and Sour Spare Ribs recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, perfect for a weeknight dinner or a weekend gathering. Forget takeout; this homemade version is bursting with tangy sweetness and tender, fall-off-the-bone ribs. Get ready to experience the deliciousness of homemade cooking with this quick dinner idea!
Ingredients:
- 2 lbs pork spare ribs, trimmed
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 1/4 cup rice vinegar
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons ketchup
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1 teaspoon grated ginger
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 2 green onions, thinly sliced (for garnish)
- Sesame seeds (for garnish)
Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Ribs
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Pat the ribs dry with paper towels. This helps them brown better.
Step 2: Make the Sweet and Sour Sauce
In a medium bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, rice vinegar, brown sugar, ketchup, cornstarch, honey, ginger, garlic, and red pepper flakes (if using). The cornstarch helps thicken the sauce beautifully.
Step 3: Marinate (Optional but Recommended)
For extra flavor, marinate the ribs in half of the sweet and sour sauce for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours in the refrigerator. This step isn't strictly necessary, but it significantly enhances the flavor penetration.
Step 4: Bake the Ribs
Place the ribs in a baking dish and pour the remaining sweet and sour sauce over them. Bake for 45-60 minutes, or until the ribs are tender and the sauce is bubbly and thickened. You may need to add a little water to the bottom of the pan if the sauce becomes too thick before the ribs are cooked through.
Step 5: Garnish and Serve
Remove the ribs from the oven and let them rest for a few minutes before garnishing with sliced green onions and sesame seeds. Serve immediately with your favorite sides, such as steamed rice or a fresh salad. These healthy meals are fantastic!
Tips for the Best Sweet and Sour Ribs:
- Bone-in vs. Boneless: While this recipe works with both, bone-in ribs offer a richer flavor and more tender texture.
- Don't Overcrowd the Pan: Ensure there's enough space between the ribs for even cooking and browning.
- Adjust the Sweetness/Spice: Taste the sauce before baking and adjust the brown sugar or red pepper flakes to your preference. Easy recipes should always be adaptable to your taste!
- Slow Cooker Alternative: For incredibly tender ribs, consider slow cooking them on low for 6-8 hours.
Variations:
- Pineapple: Add 1/2 cup of diced pineapple to the sauce for a tropical twist.
- Orange: Replace some of the rice vinegar with orange juice for a citrusy kick.
- Spicy: Increase the red pepper flakes or add a dash of your favorite hot sauce.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 350-400
- Protein: 25-30g
- Carbohydrates: 30-35g
- Fat: 15-20g
This delicious dish is a great example of easy recipes that deliver big on flavor. Enjoy your homemade Foodland Sweet and Sour Spare Ribs! This recipe is among the best recipes for its ease and deliciousness. These are healthy meals that the whole family will enjoy. Remember to always check your ingredients and adjust based on your dietary needs. Happy cooking!