There’s something utterly captivating about the sound of sizzling garlic mingling with ginger, a prelude to what will soon become a comforting feast in your home. As the scents swirl around my kitchen, I can’t help but recall the first time I savored Chinese Red-braised Spare Ribs at a friend’s dinner party. With each tender, melt-in-your-mouth bite, the rich flavors instantly transported me to a world of culinary delight.
This recipe is a game-changer for anyone craving the joys of homemade comfort food without the hours of preparation. Using simple ingredients easily found in your pantry, these ribs deliver a balance of sweetness and umami, wrapped in a glossy, sticky glaze that will mesmerizingly cling to each morsel. Perfect for cozy weeknights or impressing guests at your next gathering, this dish is sure to leave everyone asking for seconds—and maybe even the recipe. Let’s get cooking!
Why will you adore Chinese Red-braised Spare Ribs?
Unforgettable Flavor: Rich umami and sweetness create a taste sensation that lingers in your memory.
Easy Preparation: Perfect for chefs of any skill level, this recipe is straightforward and quick to execute.
Comfort Food Delight: These tender ribs are the definition of comfort food, ideal for cozy dinners or special occasions.
Crowd-Pleaser: Impress your family and friends with this dish—it’s guaranteed to have everyone going back for more!
Versatile Options: Adapt this recipe easily for gluten-free diets just by swapping soy sauce with tamari, ensuring everyone can enjoy!
Chinese Red-braised Spare Ribs Ingredients
For the Ribs
• 1 kg short spare ribs – Choose well-marbled ribs for optimal flavor and tenderness.
• 1 tbsp vegetable oil – Essential for browning the ribs and enhancing flavors.
For the Braising Sauce
• 3 tbsp brown sugar – Provides sweetness and caramelization; honey can be a delightful alternative.
• 2 tbsp soy sauce – Adds umami; use tamari for a gluten-free option.
• 1 tbsp dark soy sauce – Enhances color and depth of flavor in the dish.
• 3 tbsp white vinegar – Balances the sweetness with a touch of acidity.
• 2 tbsp Chinese Shaoxing wine – Adds rich depth; dry sherry can work as a substitute.
• 0.25 cup water – Aids in braising, making the cooking process easier.
Aromatic Additions
• 2 slices fresh ginger – Infuses warmth and spice into the dish.
• 2 spring onions (pale parts only) – Adds aromatic flavor to the braising liquid.
• 2 whole star anise – Gives a sweet, fragrant undertone that enhances the overall profile.
• 2 cloves garlic (lightly bruised) – Boosts the aromatic experience of the dish.
For Garnishing
• 2 tbsp finely sliced spring onions (green part only) – Adds a fresh touch when serving your melt-in-your-mouth ribs.
How to Make Chinese Red-braised Spare Ribs
- Prep Ribs: Begin by placing the spare ribs in a pot with room temperature water. Bring it to a gentle simmer, skimming off any impurities. Cook for about 2-3 minutes, then drain and rinse the ribs for a clean start.
- Sauté Sugar: In a wok, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the brown sugar and melt it until it turns a light caramel color, about 2 minutes. Toss in the ribs, coating them well in the caramelized sugar.
- Add Ingredients: Pour in the soy sauce, dark soy sauce, white vinegar, Shaoxing wine, and water. Add the ginger, scallions, star anise, and garlic. Stir everything together, cover, and lower the heat to medium-low. Let it simmer for 25 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully.
- Reduce Sauce: Carefully remove the lid and slightly raise the heat. Cook for another 10-15 minutes, stirring frequently, until the sauce thickens and clings to the ribs, separating from the oil.
- Serve: Transfer the ribs to a dish. Garnish with sesame seeds and sliced green onions for a pop of color and freshness. Serve warm to enjoy the melt-in-your-mouth goodness!
Optional: Drizzle with a bit of sesame oil for an extra layer of flavor.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Expert Tips for Chinese Red-braised Spare Ribs
- Quality Matters: Choose well-marbled short spare ribs for the best melt-in-your-mouth texture and deep flavor. Avoid lean cuts, which can be tough.
- Perfect Caramelization: Watch the sugar closely while sautéing; it should be a light caramel color, not dark brown, to avoid bitterness in your sauce.
- Simmer Gently: Don’t rush the braising process. A gentle simmer allows the flavors to develop, making your Chinese Red-braised Spare Ribs irresistibly tender.
- Sauce Consistency: Adjust thickness by adding water or broth if the sauce thickens too much; a glossy finish is ideal for coating the ribs beautifully.
- Storage Savvy: Leftovers can be a delight! Store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days, or freeze for longer enjoyment without losing the comforting flavors.
Make Ahead Options
These Chinese Red-braised Spare Ribs are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the ribs and braising sauce up to 24 hours in advance. Start by following the initial prep steps: blanching the ribs and sautéing the sugar, then combine them with the rest of the ingredients in an airtight container. Refrigerate the mixture overnight to let the flavors meld beautifully. When you’re ready to enjoy your delicious ribs, simply transfer everything to a pot, simmer for about 25 minutes, and finish by reducing the sauce for that sticky glaze. This approach ensures your ribs remain just as tender and flavorful, saving you time on busy weeknights!
What to Serve with Chinese Red-braised Spare Ribs?
Elevate your dining experience with delightful sides that perfectly balance the rich, savory flavors of these melt-in-your-mouth ribs.
- Fluffy White Rice:
A classic pairing, the soft rice soaks up the luscious sauce, creating a harmonious blend of textures and tastes. - Steamed Bok Choy:
This vibrant green vegetable adds a refreshing crispness, lightening the meal while complementing the rich flavors of the ribs beautifully. - Garlic Green Beans:
Tender green beans sautéed with garlic offer a delightful crunch, making the meal more dynamic with each bite. - Pickled Cucumbers:
The acidity from pickled cucumbers cuts through the richness, providing a bright contrast that’s both refreshing and satisfying. - Miso Soup:
A warm bowl of miso soup enhances umami flavors, creating a comforting start to your meal that pairs wonderfully with the ribs. - Sesame Noodles:
Dressed in a light sesame sauce, these noodles add a nutty flavor and complement the savory taste palette of the dish. - Chilled Sake or Green Tea:
Refreshing beverages like chilled sake or a warm cup of green tea cleanse the palate, enhancing the overall dining experience. - Coconut Sticky Rice:
For a sweet twist, serve coconut sticky rice on the side. Its nutty sweetness balances the savory notes of the ribs delightfully.
Storage Tips for Chinese Red-braised Spare Ribs
Fridge: Store leftover Chinese Red-braised Spare Ribs in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Ensure the container is sealed to maintain flavor and prevent spoilage.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the ribs in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Label the container with the date for easy tracking.
Reheating: When ready to enjoy, reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of water or broth to keep the ribs moist and flavorful.
Thawing: If frozen, thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating for best results, ensuring the ribs remain tender and delicious.
Chinese Red-braised Spare Ribs Variations
Feel free to explore these delightful twists on the classic recipe to suit your taste buds and dietary needs.
- Spicy Kick: Add chopped red chilies to the braising liquid for a mouthwatering heat that brings a zing to every bite.
- Citrus Zest: Incorporate orange or lemon zest for brightness, elevating the dish with a refreshing, aromatic note.
- Honey Twist: Swap brown sugar for honey to create an enticing sweetness that contrasts beautifully with the savory glaze.
- Vegetable-Rich: Add sliced carrots or radishes into the mix. They’ll soak up the flavorful sauce while adding a satisfying crunch to the ribs.
- Herb Infusion: Use fresh cilantro or basil to enhance the aromatic profile and bring a burst of freshness that brightens every mouthful.
- Pineapple Sweetness: Toss in some diced pineapple during the braising process for a tropical flair that complements the savory notes wonderfully.
- Nutty Flavor: Stir in some toasted sesame seeds before serving to add texture and a rich, nutty undertone that enriches the dish.
- Smoky Essence: Incorporate a splash of smoked soy sauce for a subtle smoky flavor that transforms the dish into a whole new experience.
Chinese Red-braised Spare Ribs Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the best spare ribs for this recipe?
Absolutely! When selecting spare ribs, look for cut with good marbling, as the small streaks of fat will melt during cooking, keeping the meat tender and flavorful. The ribs should have a rosy color and not be overly dry or discolored. If you see dark spots or an unusual smell, it’s best to skip those.
How do I store leftovers?
Very simply! Store your Chinese Red-braised Spare Ribs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Allow the ribs to cool to room temperature before sealing to preserve flavor. Make sure to avoid prolonged exposure to air, as this can lead to spoilage and loss of taste.
Can I freeze the red-braised spare ribs?
Of course! For longer storage, you can freeze the ribs in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Just ensure they’re cooled completely before freezing. To do this easily, portion the ribs into single-serving sizes, then wrap them in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer bag. Label with the date for easy tracking.
What can I do if my sauce is too thick?
No problem at all! If you notice that your sauce has thickened too much while cooking, simply add a little water or broth to thin it out. Start with a tablespoon at a time, stirring well to combine, until you achieve your desired consistency. Remember, a glossy sauce that clings to the ribs is what we aim for!
Are there any dietary considerations for this recipe?
Absolutely! If you or anyone you’re serving has dietary restrictions, you can easily adapt this recipe. For a gluten-free option, swap regular soy sauce with tamari or coconut aminos. Additionally, always double-check labels of sauces and any other ingredients to ensure they meet dietary needs.
How long can I keep cooked spare ribs in the fridge?
Cooked spare ribs can generally be kept in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure they’re stored in an airtight container to maintain freshness. If you’ve prepared a large batch, consider freezing some for future meals, as mentioned earlier!
Chinese Red-braised Spare Ribs That Melt in Your Mouth Bliss
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Begin by placing the spare ribs in a pot with room temperature water. Bring it to a gentle simmer, skimming off any impurities. Cook for about 2-3 minutes, then drain and rinse the ribs for a clean start.
- In a wok, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the brown sugar and melt it until it turns a light caramel color, about 2 minutes. Toss in the ribs, coating them well in the caramelized sugar.
- Pour in the soy sauce, dark soy sauce, white vinegar, Shaoxing wine, and water. Add the ginger, scallions, star anise, and garlic. Stir everything together, cover, and lower the heat to medium-low. Let it simmer for 25 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully.
- Carefully remove the lid and slightly raise the heat. Cook for another 10-15 minutes, stirring frequently, until the sauce thickens and clings to the ribs, separating from the oil.
- Transfer the ribs to a dish. Garnish with sesame seeds and sliced green onions for a pop of color and freshness. Serve warm to enjoy the melt-in-your-mouth goodness!