If you’re looking for a simple and delicious way to prepare ribs, this Easy Sticky Asian Pork Ribs recipe should be on your radar. These tender, flavor-packed ribs are perfect for a family dinner or a gathering with friends. Let’s dive into why you should make this recipe, how to do it, and some helpful tips along the way.
Why Make This Recipe
This Easy Sticky Asian Pork Ribs recipe stands out because it combines traditional Asian flavors with the comforting aspect of tender, juicy ribs. The marinade brings a balance of sweetness, saltiness, and a hint of heat, making it a crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re a novice in the kitchen or an experienced cook, this recipe is straightforward and doesn’t require any advanced techniques. Plus, they’re incredibly satisfying to eat!
How to Make Easy Sticky Asian Pork Ribs
Creating these mouthwatering ribs is not only easy but also fun! Below, I’ll walk you through the ingredients you’ll need and each step required to achieve perfect results.
Ingredients
- 1 rack of pork ribs
- 1 cup of water
- ¼ cup soy sauce (or tamari for a gluten-free option)
- ¼ cup rice vinegar
- ¼ cup mirin (you can substitute with additional water and sugar if desired)
- ¼ cup brown sugar (or white sugar)
- 3 tbsp oyster sauce (can be replaced with mushroom sauce for a vegetarian alternative)
- 1 tbsp dark soy sauce (for color)
- 3 inches of ginger (sliced)
- 5 cloves of garlic (smashed)
- 2 tbsp sesame oil
- Garnish: Green onions, chilis, sesame seeds
Directions
- Prepare the Ribs: Start by removing the back membrane or silverskin from the pork ribs. This step is crucial for ensuring the ribs are tender. Cut the rack into smaller pieces along the bones for easier handling.
- Brown the Ribs: Heat oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Add the rib pieces and brown them on all sides. This step adds depth to the flavor.
- Remove Excess Oil: After browning, remove excess oil from the pot using a paper towel. This will prevent the dish from becoming too greasy.
- Sauté Aromatics: Add the sliced ginger and smashed garlic to the pot and sauté until fragrant. This usually takes about 2 minutes and will fill your kitchen with a delightful aroma.
- Add the Sauces: Pour in the water, soy sauce, dark soy sauce, rice vinegar, mirin, brown sugar, and sesame oil. Stir everything well to combine the flavors.
- Bring to a Boil: Increase the heat until the mixture comes to a boil, then add the browned ribs back into the pot.
- Simmer: Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let the ribs simmer for about 45 minutes. This slow-cooking method helps in tenderizing the meat and allowing the flavors to meld.
- Reduce the Sauce: After 45 minutes, increase the heat to medium, remove the lid, and allow the sauce to reduce for about 10 minutes. This step gives you a sticky glaze that beautifully coats the ribs.
- Serve: Serve the ribs hot with garnishes of green onions, chilis, and sesame seeds. They look and taste amazing!
Pro Tips for Success with Easy Sticky Asian Pork Ribs
- Marinate Longer: If time allows, marinate the ribs in the sauce overnight for even more flavor.
- Use a Meat Thermometer: To ensure your ribs are perfectly cooked, use a meat thermometer. Pork ribs should reach an internal temperature of at least 145°F (63°C).
- Broil for Extra Crispiness: After simmering, pop the ribs under the broiler for a few minutes to create a caramelized top layer.
- Adjust Sweetness: Feel free to adjust the amount of sugar based on your preference. You can lessen it or even add more for a sweeter glaze.
- Try Different Cuts: While baby back ribs are traditional, you can use spare ribs or even pork belly for a different texture.
Flavor Variations for Easy Sticky Asian Pork Ribs
- Spicy Variant: Add some red pepper flakes or sliced fresh chilis to the sauce for an extra kick.
- Sweet and Sour Twist: Incorporate pineapple juice into the sauce for a sweet and tangy flavor.
- Herbal Notes: Try adding chopped cilantro or Thai basil for a fresh herbal element.
- Smoky Flavor: If you have access to a smoker, consider smoking the ribs for an additional layer of flavor before simmering.
- Asian BBQ Sauce: You can experiment by replacing half the soy sauce with your favorite Asian barbecue sauce for a different taste profile.
Serving Suggestions for Easy Sticky Asian Pork Ribs
These ribs pair well with various sides that complement their rich flavor profile. Here are some suggestions:
- Steamed Rice or Fried Rice: The rice will help soak up the delicious sauce.
- Coleslaw: A crunchy side adds a refreshing contrast to the stickiness of the ribs.
- Grilled Vegetables: A mix of seasonal grilled vegetables balances the dish and adds color.
- Noodle Salad: Cold noodle salads with a light dressing provide a refreshing side.
Storage and Freezing Instructions for Easy Sticky Asian Pork Ribs
If you have leftovers (which is rare with this dish), you can store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, simply warm them in a saucepan on low heat or in the microwave, adding a little bit of water to keep them moist.
For longer storage, you can freeze the cooked ribs. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil, or place them in a freezer-safe container. They can be frozen for up to three months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge before warming them up.
Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|————|———–|
| Calories | 350 |
| Protein | 25 g |
| Carbs | 10 g |
| Fat | 25 g |
| Fiber | 1 g |
| Sodium | 700 mg |
FAQ About Easy Sticky Asian Pork Ribs
Can I use another type of meat for this recipe?
Absolutely! While pork ribs are traditional, chicken wings or thighs also work well with the same marinade. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly, as chicken cooks faster than pork.
Is it necessary to remove the silverskin from the ribs?
Yes, removing the silverskin is important for tenderness. This tough membrane can inhibit the flavor absorption of the marinade and can make the ribs chewy.
Can I make these ribs in a slow cooker?
Yes! You can brown the ribs on the stove before transferring them to a slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for about 4 hours until they are tender.
What if I don’t have mirin or rice vinegar?
If you don’t have mirin, you can substitute it with a mix of rice vinegar and a bit of sugar. If you are out of rice vinegar, apple cider vinegar can work as a substitute, albeit with a slightly different flavor.
Are these ribs spicy?
The recipe can be adjusted to your preference. As written, it’s mildly sweet and savory with an opportunity to add heat from chilis or hot sauce to meet your spice tolerance.
What’s the best way to serve these ribs for a party?
For a gathering, you can cut the ribs into smaller pieces and serve them on a large platter garnished with green onions and sesame seeds. Providing toothpicks or disposable gloves makes for easier eating, especially if you want to keep things casual.
Final Thoughts
Making Easy Sticky Asian Pork Ribs is a rewarding experience that results in a dish everyone will love. With a bit of time and the right ingredients, you can create a flavorful meal that brings the family together or wows your guests. Follow the steps closely, and don’t hesitate to add your personal twist to the recipe. Enjoy your deliciously sticky ribs!
This recipe is not only a treat for your taste buds but also an ideal dish to showcase your culinary skills with minimal effort. So go on, gather your ingredients, and get ready to savor every bite!
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Easy Sticky Asian Pork Ribs
- Total Time: 70
- Yield: 4 servings
- Diet: Paleo
Description
These tender, flavor-packed ribs combine traditional Asian flavors with the comforting aspect of juicy pork ribs, making them perfect for family dinners or gatherings.
Ingredients
- 1 rack of pork ribs
- 1 cup of water
- ¼ cup soy sauce
- ¼ cup rice vinegar
- ¼ cup mirin
- ¼ cup brown sugar
- 3 tbsp oyster sauce
- 1 tbsp dark soy sauce
- 3 inches of ginger (sliced)
- 5 cloves of garlic (smashed)
- 2 tbsp sesame oil
- Garnish: Green onions, chilis, sesame seeds
Instructions
- Remove the back membrane from the pork ribs and cut the rack into smaller pieces for easier handling.
- Heat oil in a large pot over medium-high heat and brown the rib pieces on all sides.
- Remove excess oil from the pot using a paper towel.
- Add sliced ginger and smashed garlic to the pot and sauté until fragrant, about 2 minutes.
- Pour in water, soy sauce, dark soy sauce, rice vinegar, mirin, brown sugar, and sesame oil, stirring to combine.
- Bring the mixture to a boil and then add the browned ribs back into the pot.
- Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let the ribs simmer for about 45 minutes.
- Remove the lid, increase the heat to medium, and allow the sauce to reduce for about 10 minutes to create a sticky glaze.
- Serve hot with garnishes of green onions, chilis, and sesame seeds.
Notes
For best results, marinate the ribs overnight. Adjust the sweetness of the glaze to your liking and consider broiling for an extra crispy finish.
- Prep Time: 15
- Cook Time: 55
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Braising
- Cuisine: Asian