These Soy Sauce Braised Pork Ribs are a perfect combination of tender, juicy meat and rich, savory flavors. The aromatic spices, like star anise and cinnamon, infuse the ribs, while the soy sauce and sugar create a sweet and salty glaze that makes every bite irresistible. It’s the kind of meal that you’ll crave time and time again.
The dish is not only flavorful but also incredibly versatile. You can serve it with steamed rice, sautéed vegetables, or even noodles. The tender pork melts in your mouth, and the rich, savory sauce adds a layer of umami that will leave you wanting more. It’s the perfect comfort food for a cozy dinner or to impress your guests at a gathering.
Full recipe:
Ingredients:
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2 lbs pork ribs
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3 tablespoons soy sauce
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1 tablespoon dark soy sauce
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2 tablespoons sugar
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4 cloves garlic, minced
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1-inch piece of ginger, sliced
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2 star anise
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2 cinnamon sticks
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1/4 cup rice wine
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2 tablespoons vegetable oil
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2 cups water
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1 teaspoon sesame oil
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Salt and pepper to taste
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2 spring onions, chopped (for garnish)
Directions:
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Cut the pork ribs into individual pieces and season with salt and pepper.
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Heat vegetable oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add garlic, ginger, star anise, and cinnamon sticks. Sauté until fragrant, about 2 minutes.
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Add the pork ribs and brown them on all sides.
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Stir in the soy sauce, dark soy sauce, sugar, and rice wine. Add water, ensuring the ribs are just covered.
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Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and cover the pot. Let simmer for 1-1.5 hours, or until the ribs are tender and the sauce has thickened.
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Once cooked, drizzle sesame oil over the ribs and stir in spring onions.
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Serve hot with steamed rice.
Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cooking Time: 1.5 hours | Total Time: 1 hour 45 minutes
Kcal: 380 kcal | Servings: 4 servings
What Makes This Dish Unique
The unique balance of ingredients is what sets Chinese-style soy sauce braised pork ribs apart from other braised meat dishes. Light soy sauce, which provides a salty base, and dark soy sauce, with its thicker consistency and deep caramel color, are key components that elevate the dish’s appearance and taste. A hint of sugar balances the savory saltiness, while Shaoxing wine adds depth and an aromatic flavor that is unmistakably Chinese.
For those unfamiliar with Shaoxing wine, it is an essential ingredient in Chinese cooking that brings complexity and authenticity to many dishes. However, if you cannot find it, a dry sherry is an acceptable substitute. Another vital ingredient in this recipe is rice vinegar, which not only helps to tenderize the pork but also balances the dish’s overall flavor profile by cutting through the richness of the meat.
The Braising Process
Braising is a slow cooking method that allows the pork ribs to tenderize and absorb all the flavors of the braising liquid. The process starts with parboiling the ribs to remove any impurities and bone fragments that may affect the final taste. After parboiling, the ribs are cooked in a mixture of soy sauce, sugar, Shaoxing wine, rice vinegar, and aromatics like ginger and garlic. As the ribs simmer slowly, the sauce reduces, and the flavors intensify, creating a glossy, sticky glaze that adheres perfectly to the meat.
One of the keys to success in this recipe is to ensure that the ribs are covered while braising. This traps moisture and helps cook the pork evenly. After the ribs have become tender, the lid is removed to allow the sauce to reduce further, intensifying the flavors and leaving a thick, flavorful coating on the ribs.
Variations of the Recipe
Although pork ribs are the most common choice for this dish, it can easily be adapted to different proteins. Beef ribs, bone-in chicken, or even tofu can be used as alternatives, making this a versatile recipe that suits various dietary preferences. When making this recipe with chicken or beef, the cooking time may vary slightly, so be sure to monitor the meat closely to ensure it reaches the desired tenderness.
For an even deeper garlic and ginger flavor, consider pan-frying these aromatics before adding the other ingredients. This step will help release more of their natural oils and make the final dish even more fragrant. If you prefer a thicker sauce, you can also add a cornstarch slurry towards the end of cooking, which will thicken the sauce to a glossy finish.
Serving Suggestions
Soy sauce braised pork ribs are perfect when served with steamed rice, which soaks up the delicious sauce and provides a neutral base that complements the rich, flavorful ribs. You can also serve them with stir-fried vegetables or noodles for a more complete meal. The addition of green onions as a garnish adds a touch of freshness and a pop of color, making the dish more visually appealing.
For a more substantial meal, pair the pork ribs with side dishes like sautéed greens, pickled vegetables, or a simple cucumber salad. The versatility of this dish allows it to be enjoyed as part of a larger spread or as the main attraction.
Conclusion: A Simple and Flavorful Dish for All Occasions
Soy sauce braised pork ribs are the perfect comfort food, ideal for both casual family dinners and special occasions. This dish brings a blend of savory and sweet flavors, making it universally appealing. Whether you’re new to cooking or an experienced chef, this recipe is simple to follow, and the results are always delicious. With just a few basic ingredients and minimal effort, you can create a meal that is rich in flavor and sure to impress your guests or family.
The braising method ensures that the pork remains tender and juicy, while the savory sauce gives each bite a burst of deep, satisfying flavor. If you’re looking for a recipe that’s both easy to make and absolutely delicious, soy sauce braised pork ribs should be at the top of your list.
This dish exemplifies the beauty of Chinese cooking—simple yet full of flavor. Perfect for those who enjoy slow-cooked meals, it’s an ideal choice for anyone looking to explore Asian-inspired flavors without needing to spend hours in the kitchen. Try this recipe, and you’ll have a delicious meal ready to enjoy in just a couple of hours.