If you have a soft spot for dishes that perfectly balance sweetness and tanginess, then Sweet and Sour Spare Ribs (糖醋排骨) is a must-try. This classic Chinese dish is beloved for its tender, succulent ribs coated in a glossy, sweet and tangy sauce. It’s a dish that brings together the best of Chinese culinary traditions, making it a favorite both in restaurants and home kitchens.
The Origins of Sweet and Sour Spare Ribs
Sweet and Sour Spare Ribs is a traditional dish that originated in the Jiangnan region of China, known for its rich culinary heritage. The dish combines the tenderness of pork ribs with a flavorful sauce made from vinegar, sugar, soy sauce, and other seasonings. Over time, it has become a staple in Chinese cuisine, enjoyed by people of all ages for its delightful combination of flavors.
Key Features of Sweet and Sour Spare Ribs
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Tender Ribs: The ribs are cooked until they are soft and succulent, ensuring a melt-in-your-mouth texture.
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Sweet and Tangy Sauce: The sauce is a perfect balance of sweetness from sugar and tanginess from vinegar, creating a flavor that is both comforting and addictive.
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Aromatic Spices: The dish is often seasoned with ginger, garlic, and soy sauce, adding depth and complexity to the overall taste.
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Versatility: Sweet and Sour Spare Ribs can be enjoyed on their own or paired with steamed rice, making it a versatile choice for any meal.
How to Make Authentic Sweet and Sour Spare Ribs
Ready to bring the flavors of Sweet and Sour Spare Ribs to your kitchen? Here’s a simple yet authentic recipe to get you started:
Ingredients:
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Pork Ribs: 500g, cut into small pieces
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Seasonings: Minced ginger, garlic, soy sauce, cooking wine, and salt
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Sauce Ingredients: White vinegar, sugar, ketchup, and cornstarch (for thickening)
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Other: Vegetable oil for frying, sesame seeds and green onions for garnish
Instructions:
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Prepare the Ribs: Rinse the ribs and blanch them in boiling water for a few minutes to remove impurities. Drain and set aside.
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Fry the Ribs: Heat oil in a wok or pan, and fry the ribs until they are golden brown on the outside. This step helps to lock in the flavors and create a crispy texture.
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Cook the Sauce: In the same pan, add minced ginger and garlic, and stir-fry until fragrant. Add soy sauce, cooking wine, and a bit of water. Bring to a boil.
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Simmer the Ribs: Add the fried ribs to the sauce, and simmer on low heat until the ribs are tender. This may take about 20-30 minutes.
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Make the Sweet and Sour Sauce: In a separate bowl, mix white vinegar, sugar, and ketchup. Add this mixture to the ribs and stir well to coat evenly.
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Thicken the Sauce: Mix cornstarch with a bit of water and add it to the ribs. Stir until the sauce thickens and becomes glossy.
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Serve: Garnish with sesame seeds and chopped green onions. Serve hot with steamed rice.
Tips for Perfect Sweet and Sour Spare Ribs
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Balance the Sauce: Adjust the ratio of sugar to vinegar to suit your taste preference. More sugar will make it sweeter, while more vinegar will make it tangier.
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Low and Slow: Simmer the ribs on low heat to ensure they become tender without overcooking.
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Glossy Finish: The sauce should be thick and glossy, coating the ribs evenly.
Why You’ll Love Sweet and Sour Spare Ribs
Sweet and Sour Spare Ribs is a dish that combines the best of Chinese cuisine—tender ribs, a flavorful sauce, and a perfect balance of sweetness and tanginess. It’s perfect for those who enjoy comfort food with a touch of sweetness. Whether you’re a fan of Chinese cuisine or just looking to try something new, this dish is sure to become a favorite.
