Red braised pork ribs are a beloved dish in Chinese cuisine, known for their rich and savory flavors. If you want to learn how to make the perfect red braised pork ribs at home, here is everything you need to know.
Choose the right ingredients
Start with high-quality pork ribs, preferably with a good amount of fat and meat. You will also need soy sauce, sugar, Shaoxing wine, ginger, garlic, and spices like star anise and cinnamon to create the signature flavor of red-braised pork ribs.
Marinate the pork ribs
To enhance the flavor of the pork ribs, marinate them in a mixture of soy sauce, sugar, Shaoxing wine, ginger, and garlic for at least an hour. This will allow the meat to absorb the flavors and become more tender.
Brown the pork ribs
Before braising the ribs, brown them in a hot pan to add depth of flavor. This step also helps to seal in the juices of the meat, ensuring that the ribs remain tender during the cooking process.
Braise the pork ribs
Once the pork ribs are browned, add them to a pot with the marinade and enough water to cover the meat. Add spices like star anise and cinnamon for extra flavor. Simmer the ribs over low heat for 1-2 hours, until the meat is tender and the sauce has thickened.
Adjust the seasoning
Taste the red braised pork ribs and adjust the seasoning as needed. You may want to add more soy sauce for saltiness, sugar for sweetness, or Shaoxing wine for depth of flavor. Play around with the spices to achieve the perfect balance of flavors.
Serve and enjoy
Once the red braised pork ribs are cooked to perfection, serve them hot with steamed rice and your favorite vegetable side dish. Garnish with chopped scallions or cilantro for a fresh touch.
Making perfect red braised pork ribs at home is a rewarding experience that will impress your family and friends. With the right ingredients and cooking techniques, you can create a delicious and satisfying dish that will have everyone coming back for more.