Sticky Asian Braised Spare Ribs

​This recipe delivers tender, fall-off-the-bone ribs with a rich, savory, and slightly sweet glaze.

Ingredients

The Meat:

  • 1 kg Pork or Beef spare ribs (cut into small, bite-sized pieces).
  • 1 tbsp Cooking oil.

The Aromatics:

  • 3-4 slices Fresh ginger.
  • 3 cloves Garlic, smashed.
  • 2 Green onions (whites for cooking, greens for garnish).
  • 2 Star anise (optional, for deep flavor).

The Sauce:

  • 2 tbsp Light soy sauce (for saltiness).
  • 1 tbsp Dark soy sauce (for that deep mahogany color).
  • 1 tbsp Oyster sauce.
  • 1 tbsp Rice vinegar or Apple cider vinegar.
  • 1 tbsp Honey or Brown sugar.
  • 1/2 cup Water or beef broth.

Instructions

  1. Blanch the Ribs: Place the ribs in a pot of cold water. Bring to a boil for 3–5 minutes to remove impurities. Drain and rinse the ribs under cold water. Pat them dry.
  2. Sear the Ribs: Heat oil in a large pan or wok over medium-high heat. Add the ribs and fry until they are golden brown on all sides.
  3. Add Aromatics: Add the ginger, garlic, star anise, and the white parts of the green onions. Stir-fry for 1 minute until fragrant.
  4. Glaze & Simmer: Pour in the soy sauces, oyster sauce, vinegar, and sugar. Stir well to coat every piece of meat. Add the water/broth and bring to a gentle boil.
  5. Slow Cook: Lower the heat, cover the pan, and simmer for 45–60 minutes. Stir occasionally. If the sauce dries out too fast, add a splash more water.
  6. Thicken the Sauce: Once the meat is tender, remove the lid and turn the heat to high. Toss the ribs constantly until the sauce thickens into a sticky glaze that coats the ribs perfectly.

Serving Suggestions

  • Garnish: Sprinkle with toasted sesame seeds and thinly sliced green onions (as seen in the edited photo).
  • Side: Serve hot over steamed jasmine rice or with a side of stir-fried bok choy.

Enjoy your meal!

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