If you’re craving pork ribs cooked to perfection with tender meat that falls off the bone, this braised pork ribs recipe is exactly what you need. It’s rich, flavorful, and satisfying. With a savory sauce and perfectly cooked ribs, this dish is perfect for family dinners or special occasions.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Tender and Flavorful: Slow-cooked pork ribs are juicy, tender, and packed with flavor.
- Versatile: The sauce can be customized to your preference—sweet, tangy, or spicy.
- Comfort Food: A hearty dish that pairs perfectly with rice, mashed potatoes, or crusty bread.
Ingredients
For the Pork Ribs:
- 2 lbs pork ribs, cut into individual pieces
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 medium carrot, diced (optional)
- 2 stalks celery, diced (optional)
- 2 cups beef or pork stock
- 1/2 cup soy sauce
- 1/4 cup oyster sauce
- 2 tbsp brown sugar
- 2 tbsp vinegar or lemon juice
- 1 tsp black pepper
- 2 tbsp tomato paste
- 1 tbsp cornstarch (mixed with 2 tbsp water for thickening, optional)
For Garnish:
- Fresh parsley or green onions, chopped
Preparation Time
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 1.5–2 hours
- Total Time: ~2 hours and 15 minutes
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Pork Ribs
- Rinse the pork ribs under cold water and pat them dry with paper towels.
- Season the ribs with a little salt and pepper on both sides.
Step 2: Sear the Ribs
- Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet or pot over medium-high heat.
- Sear the pork ribs in batches until they are browned on all sides. Remove and set aside.
Step 3: Sauté the Aromatics
- In the same pot, reduce the heat to medium. Add the chopped onions and sauté until translucent.
- Stir in the garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- (Optional) Add diced carrots and celery for an extra layer of flavor.
Step 4: Build the Sauce
- Add the tomato paste to the pot and stir to combine with the onions and garlic.
- Pour in the soy sauce, oyster sauce, brown sugar, vinegar (or lemon juice), and black pepper. Mix well.
- Gradually add the stock and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
Step 5: Braise the Ribs
- Return the seared ribs to the pot, ensuring they are submerged in the sauce.
- Cover the pot and simmer on low heat for 1.5–2 hours, or until the ribs are tender and the meat easily pulls away from the bone. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
- (Optional) In the last 10 minutes of cooking, add the cornstarch slurry to thicken the sauce.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
- Transfer the ribs to a serving platter and spoon the sauce over the top.
- Garnish with fresh parsley or green onions for a pop of color.
- Serve hot with steamed rice, mashed potatoes, or crusty bread.
Tips for the Perfect Braised Pork Ribs
- Low and Slow: Cooking the ribs over low heat for a longer time ensures tender, fall-off-the-bone meat.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh garlic and onions add depth to the flavor.
- Adjust the Sauce: If you prefer a sweeter sauce, add a little honey or extra brown sugar. For a tangy flavor, increase the vinegar.
- Make Ahead: Braised ribs taste even better the next day as the flavors continue to develop.
- Thicken the Sauce: Use cornstarch slurry for a glossy, thick sauce, or let it reduce naturally by simmering uncovered toward the end.
Calories and Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
- Calories: ~350
- Total Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
- Sodium: 800mg
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 10g
- Protein: 25g
Serving Suggestions
- Rice: Steamed white or garlic rice pairs perfectly with the rich sauce.
- Vegetables: Serve with a side of sautéed green beans, steamed broccoli, or roasted carrots.
- Drinks: Complement the dish with a refreshing lemonade or iced tea.
Conclusion
This Braised Pork Ribs Recipe is the ultimate comfort food, with tender meat and a rich, flavorful sauce. Whether you’re preparing it for a family meal or a gathering with friends, this dish will always be a hit. Simple yet sophisticated, it’s proof that great food doesn’t have to be complicated.