Craving a mouthwatering, fall-off-the-bone tender meal that's surprisingly easy to make? Look no further! These fried country style ribs are a delicious and satisfying dish perfect for a weeknight dinner or a weekend gathering. Forget complicated recipes and lengthy cooking times; this recipe delivers big on flavor with minimal effort, making it one of the best recipes for busy weeknights. Get ready to experience the joy of homemade cooking at its finest!
Ingredients:
- 3 lbs country-style pork ribs
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 teaspoons paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for extra heat)
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil
Instructions:
Step 1: Preparing the Ribs
Pat the country-style pork ribs dry with paper towels. This helps the flour adhere better and promotes a crispy crust.
Step 2: Making the Seasoning Blend
In a shallow dish, whisk together the flour, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, pepper, and cayenne pepper (if using).
Step 3: Coating the Ribs
Dredge each rib in the flour mixture, ensuring they are evenly coated. Gently press the flour into the meat to help it stick.
Step 4: Frying the Ribs
Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet or cast-iron pan over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot (a drop of flour should sizzle immediately), carefully place the ribs in the pan, ensuring not to overcrowd it. Fry the ribs in batches if necessary.
Step 5: Achieving Perfection
Fry the ribs for about 5-7 minutes per side, or until they are golden brown and cooked through. Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C).
Step 6: Serving Suggestion
Remove the ribs from the pan and let them rest for a few minutes before serving. These delicious ribs are perfect on their own or served with your favorite sides, like coleslaw, mashed potatoes, or cornbread.
Cooking Tips for Extra Flavor:
- Marinate for More Flavor: For even more intense flavor, marinate the ribs in your favorite BBQ sauce or a simple mixture of soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, and garlic for at least 30 minutes before frying.
- Don't Overcrowd the Pan: Overcrowding the pan will lower the oil temperature, resulting in greasy ribs instead of crispy ones. Fry in batches for best results.
- Adjust Seasoning to Taste: Feel free to adjust the spices to your preference. Add more cayenne pepper for extra heat, or experiment with other spices like cumin or smoked paprika.
Variations:
- BBQ Ribs: After frying, brush the ribs with your favorite BBQ sauce and return them to the pan for a few minutes to let the sauce caramelize.
- Spicy Ribs: Increase the amount of cayenne pepper or add a pinch of red pepper flakes for extra heat.
- Honey Garlic Ribs: After frying, toss the ribs in a mixture of honey, soy sauce, and minced garlic for a sweet and savory glaze.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
Calories: Approximately 350-400 Protein: 30-35g Fat: 20-25g Carbohydrates: 10-15g
This recipe offers a delicious and satisfying meal that's perfect for those seeking quick dinner ideas and healthy meals without sacrificing flavor. Enjoy this easy recipe and elevate your weeknight dinners with this simple yet flavorful dish! It's one of the best recipes for anyone looking to master the art of delicious and easy homemade cooking.