Classic Red-Braised Pork Ribs
Fall-off-the-bone pork ribs slow-braised in a caramelized soy glaze with warm spices until meltingly tender.
Story
This iconic Chinese comfort food transforms humble pork ribs into a sticky, glossy masterpiece. The magic happens as the meat slowly simmers in a fragrant bath of soy, sugar, and aromatics, creating that signature red-brown lacquer that defines red-braised cooking.
Ingredients
Instructions
Parboil the ribs
Submerge the rib pieces in cold water in a heavy-bottomed pot. Toss in a few ginger slices and bring to a rolling boil. Cook for 5 minutes to purge impurities, then drain and rinse the ribs under warm water.
Sauté the aromatics
Heat oil in a Dutch oven or wide heavy pot over medium heat. Add the ginger, garlic, and scallions, stirring until fragrant, about 30 seconds. Add the doubanjiang and cook briefly until the oil turns reddish and the paste smells toasted.
Deglaze and simmer
Return the ribs to the pot. Pour in the soy sauces, wine, and sugar, tossing to coat each piece. Add enough water to just barely cover the meat. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer gently for 60 to 90 minutes until the meat is nearly falling off the bone.
Reduce the glaze
Uncover and increase heat to medium. Stir in the black vinegar and continue cooking, stirring occasionally, until the sauce reduces to a thick, glossy glaze that clings to the ribs. Let rest for 3 minutes before serving over steamed rice.