This Sweet & Sour Pork Spare Ribs recipe combines tender ribs with a tangy, sweet, and slightly savory sauce, making it a fantastic dish for any occasion. The balance of vinegar, sugar, and ketchup creates a classic sweet and sour sauce that pairs beautifully with the rich flavor of pork spare ribs. Optional bell peppers and onions add a pop of color and extra flavor, making this dish not only delicious but visually appealing as well.
Ingredients for Sweet & Sour Pork Spare Ribs
- 2 pounds pork spare ribs, cut into individual ribs
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
- ½ cup white vinegar
- ½ cup water
- ½ cup sugar
- ¼ cup tomato ketchup
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon ginger, minced
- 1 small onion, chopped (optional)
- 1 bell pepper, cut into squares (optional)
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch, mixed with 2 tablespoons water (for thickening)
- Optional: green onions and sesame seeds for garnish
Instructions for Sweet & Sour Pork Spare Ribs
1. Season and Sear the Ribs
- Season the pork spare ribs generously with salt and pepper.
- In a large skillet or pot, heat 1 tablespoon vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Add the ribs and sear them on all sides until golden brown, about 3-4 minutes per side. Remove the ribs and set them aside.
2. Sauté the Aromatics
- In the same pan, add the minced garlic and ginger, and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
- If using, add the chopped onion and bell pepper to the pan. Cook until they soften slightly, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Make the Sweet & Sour Sauce
- Add the ½ cup white vinegar, ½ cup water, ½ cup sugar, ¼ cup tomato ketchup, and 1 tablespoon soy sauce to the pan. Stir to combine and bring the mixture to a simmer. Let it cook for 3-5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
4. Cook the Ribs in the Sauce
- Return the seared ribs to the pan, coating them with the sweet and sour sauce. Cover the pan and let the ribs simmer over low heat for 40-50 minutes, or until the ribs are tender. Stir occasionally to ensure even cooking.
5. Thicken the Sauce
- Once the ribs are tender, stir in the cornstarch and water mixture to thicken the sauce. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until the sauce thickens to your desired consistency.
6. Garnish and Serve
- Transfer the ribs to a serving dish, spooning the thickened sauce over the top. Garnish with green onions and sesame seeds, if desired.
Cook’s Notes and Tips
- Searing the Ribs: Searing the ribs before braising them in the sweet and sour sauce enhances the flavor and gives the dish a richer taste.
- Adjust the Sweetness and Sourness: Feel free to adjust the balance of the sauce by adding more sugar for sweetness or more vinegar for a tangier flavor.
- Vegetable Options: For added flavor and texture, use pineapple chunks along with the bell peppers and onions.
Variations for Sweet & Sour Pork Spare Ribs
1. Spicy Sweet & Sour Ribs
- Add ½ teaspoon of red pepper flakes or a splash of Sriracha to the sauce for a spicy kick.
2. Pineapple Sweet & Sour Ribs
- Add ½ cup of pineapple chunks to the sauce along with the bell pepper and onions for a tropical twist. Pineapple pairs perfectly with the sweet and tangy sauce.
3. Baked Sweet & Sour Ribs
- Instead of cooking on the stovetop, bake the ribs. After searing, transfer the ribs and sauce to a baking dish and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 45-60 minutes, covered, until tender.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes! Sweet and sour ribs can be made a day ahead and reheated. The flavors will develop even more as the dish sits. Store in the refrigerator and reheat in a pan over medium heat until warmed through.
2. What can I serve with sweet and sour pork ribs?
These ribs pair wonderfully with steamed rice, fried rice, or noodles. You can also serve them alongside steamed vegetables or a simple salad.
3. Can I use another cut of pork?
Absolutely! You can substitute pork shoulder or country-style ribs if you prefer. Just adjust the cooking time to ensure the meat is tender.
A Delicious Twist on Pork Ribs
These Sweet & Sour Pork Spare Ribs are a deliciously balanced dish with tender pork, a tangy sauce, and optional vegetables for added flavor and texture. This recipe brings the perfect mix of sweet and savory flavors, and whether served as an appetizer or main course, it’s sure to be a hit at any meal!
