Are you craving tender, juicy, fall-off-the-bone ribs but short on time? Forget the messy, time-consuming process of cooking bone-in ribs! This recipe for boneless spare ribs delivers all the delicious flavor and melt-in-your-mouth texture you desire, in a fraction of the time. It's a perfect example of delicious dishes that are also easy recipes, making it ideal for busy weeknights or a relaxed weekend meal. Get ready to impress your family and friends with this quick dinner idea that's surprisingly healthy!
Ingredients:
- 2 lbs boneless pork spare ribs, cut into 2-inch pieces
- 1/4 cup soy sauce (low sodium preferred)
- 1/4 cup brown sugar, packed
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Marinade
In a medium bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, brown sugar, honey, apple cider vinegar, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, and black pepper. This homemade marinade is key to achieving that amazing flavor.
Step 2: Marinate the Ribs
Add the boneless pork spare ribs to the marinade, ensuring each piece is well coated. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or preferably for 2-4 hours for maximum flavor penetration. The longer they marinate, the more tender and flavorful your ribs will be.
Step 3: Cook the Ribs
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Remove the ribs from the marinade and discard the marinade. Heat the olive oil in an oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Brown the ribs on all sides for about 2-3 minutes per side. This step adds a beautiful sear and enhances the flavor.
Step 4: Bake to Perfection
Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the ribs are cooked through and tender. You can check for doneness by inserting a fork; the ribs should easily shred.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy!
Remove the skillet from the oven and let the ribs rest for 5-10 minutes before serving. Serve these delicious ribs as is, or you can shred them and use them in tacos, sandwiches, or salads.
Tips for the Best Boneless Spare Ribs:
- Don't overcrowd the pan: Ensure there's enough space between the ribs for even browning. If necessary, cook them in batches.
- Use a meat thermometer: For foolproof cooking, use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C).
- Adjust the sweetness: If you prefer less sweetness, reduce the amount of brown sugar and honey. Conversely, for extra sweetness, add a tablespoon more of each.
- Add some heat: For a spicier kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of your favorite hot sauce to the marinade.
Variations:
- BBQ Ribs: After baking, brush the ribs with your favorite BBQ sauce and broil for a few minutes to caramelize the sauce.
- Asian-Inspired Ribs: Replace the apple cider vinegar with rice vinegar and add a tablespoon of sesame oil to the marinade.
- Spicy Ribs: Add a tablespoon of chili garlic sauce to the marinade for a spicy twist.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This information is an estimate and will vary based on specific ingredients used. It’s always best to use a nutrition calculator with your exact ingredients for precise values.
- Calories: Approximately 300-350
- Protein: Approximately 25-30g
- Fat: Approximately 15-20g
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 10-15g
This recipe for boneless spare ribs is a testament to how easy and delicious healthy meals can be. It’s a perfect addition to your repertoire of quick dinner ideas and homemade cooking adventures. Enjoy!