How to Cook Sweet and Tangy Plum Pork Ribs?

Introduction

Cooking sweet and tangy plum pork ribs on the stove is a delightful culinary experience that combines savory and fruity flavors, resulting in a mouthwatering dish. This method is perfect for those who might not have access to an oven or grill but still want to enjoy succulent ribs. The sweet plum sauce with a hint of tanginess pairs perfectly with the richness of pork, creating a balance of flavors that will impress your family and friends.

Prerequisites

Before you start cooking, make sure you have the following ingredients and equipment:

Ingredients:

• 2 pounds of pork ribs
• 1 cup of plum sauce (available in most supermarkets or homemade)
• 2 tablespoons of soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon of honey
• 2 cloves of garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon of grated fresh ginger
• 1 tablespoon of rice vinegar
• 1 teaspoon of chili flakes (optional, for a bit of heat)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil
• 1 cup of water or chicken broth

Equipment:

• Large pot or Dutch oven with a lid
• Tongs or a spatula
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Knife and cutting board
• Mixing bowl

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Ribs

1. Trim the Ribs: Remove any excess fat from the ribs using a sharp knife.
2. Season the Ribs: Generously season the ribs with salt and pepper on both sides.

Step 2: Sear the Ribs

1. Heat the Oil: Place the pot or Dutch oven on the stove over medium-high heat and add the vegetable oil.
2. Sear the Ribs: Once the oil is hot, carefully add the ribs to the pot. Sear them on each side until they are golden brown. This should take about 3-4 minutes per side. Use tongs to turn the ribs.

Step 3: Make the Sauce

1. Combine Ingredients: In a mixing bowl, combine the plum sauce, soy sauce, honey, minced garlic, grated ginger, rice vinegar, and chili flakes (if using).
2. Mix Well: Stir the ingredients together until they are well combined.

Step 4: Cook the Ribs

1. Add the Sauce: Pour the sauce over the seared ribs in the pot.
2. Add Liquid: Add 1 cup of water or chicken broth to the pot. This will help the ribs cook evenly and prevent them from drying out.
3. Bring to a Boil: Increase the heat to high and bring the mixture to a boil.
4. Simmer: Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the pot with a lid, and let the ribs simmer for about 1.5 to 2 hours. Check occasionally, stirring the sauce and turning the ribs to ensure they are cooking evenly.

Step 5: Final Touches

1. Check for Doneness: After 1.5 hours, check the ribs for tenderness. They should be soft and easily pulled apart with a fork.
2. Reduce the Sauce: If the sauce is too thin, remove the lid and increase the heat to medium-high, allowing it to reduce until it reaches the desired thickness.

Conclusion

Cooking sweet and tangy plum pork ribs on the stove is a straightforward process that yields delicious results. The key is to sear the ribs well at the beginning and allow them to simmer slowly in the flavorful sauce. For added flavor, you can garnish the ribs with fresh herbs like cilantro or green onions before serving. Enjoy your juicy, flavorful ribs with rice or steamed vegetables for a complete meal. Remember, patience is key to achieving that perfect tender texture. Happy cooking!