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Sweet and Sour Garlic Short Ribs

Sweet and Sour Garlic Short Ribs - Friendsgiving Food Ideas

When I think about the dishes that really hit the spot, sweet and sour garlic short ribs instantly come to mind. There's something irresistible about the combination of tender meat coated in a rich sauce that balances sweet and tangy notes. 
Whether enjoyed at a casual family gathering or a festive celebration, this dish pairs wonderfully with a myriad of sides. 
Picture this: a vibrant coleslaw, fluffy rice, or earthy roasted vegetables. Each offers a contrasting texture and flavor, enhancing the overall experience. Let me take you on a flavorful journey to create this mouth-watering meal.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 40 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Asian
Calories: 705
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 2 tbsp of Shaoxing Wine
  • 3 tbsp of Rice Vinegar
  • 2 cups of Water
  • 8 minced Garlic Cloves
  • 2 tbsp of Thick Soy Sauce
  • 3 tbsp of Soy Sauce Regular
  • 1 tbsp of Hoisin Sauce
  • 2 lb of Pork Spare Ribs
  • 1 tsp of Five-Spice Powder
  • 3 tbsp of Brown Sugar
  • 2 tbsp of Tomato Paste

Method
 

  1. Now that we have our ingredients prepped, let’s dive into how to transform these components into a culinary masterpiece. Ready? Let’s rock and roll.
Step 1: Marinate the Ribs
  1. To get start off, you’ll want to marinate those ribs.
  2. In a large bowl, mix together the Shaoxing wine, rice vinegar, minced garlic, soy sauces, hoisin sauce, five spice powder, and brown sugar.
  3. Add the ribs to the bowl and ensure they’re fully coated.
  4. Cover and let this sit in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours, or overnight if you have the patience. Trust me, the longer, the better.
Step 2: Sear the Ribs
  1. Once the ribs have soaked in all those gorgeous flavors, it's time to sear.
  2. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat.
  3. Add a drizzle of oil to the pan. When it’s hot, place the ribs in, making sure not to overcrowd the pan.
  4. Sear the ribs for about 3-4 minutes on each side until they get a beautiful caramelized crust. This step is crucial! It locks in the flavors and adds an irresistible texture.
Step 3: Prepare the Sauce
  1. While the ribs are doing their thing, let’s work on the sauce.
  2. In a medium pot, combine the water and tomato paste. Stir until the paste dissolves.
  3. Bring the mixture to a simmer and let it cook for about 5 minutes to thicken ever so slightly.
  4. Stir in any leftover marinade from the ribs for an extra flavor punch. Keep this sauce gentle as it bubbles away.
Step 4: Braise the Ribs
  1. Time for the magic to happen.
  2. Transfer the seared ribs into a deep pot or Dutch oven.
  3. Pour the prepared sauce over the ribs, making sure they are predominantly submerged.
  4. Cover and bring to a gentle boil. Once it reaches a boil, reduce the heat to low, and cover it again. Let it braise for about 1.5 to 2 hours. The result? Tender, fall-off-the-bone ribs, swimming in savory sauce.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy!
  1. The moment of truth is here.
  2. Carefully transfer the ribs to a serving platter. Drizzle some of that glorious sauce over them.
  3. Garnish with fresh herbs or sliced scallions for an added kick.
  4. Serve immediately, and watch everyone fight for seconds!

Notes

Here are a few tips that will elevate your short ribs game:
  • Adjust Sweetness: If you prefer a tangier profile, reduce the brown sugar.
  • Extra Garlic: Add more garlic if you’re a fan. The more the better!
  • Resting Time: Letting the ribs sit for a bit after cooking intensifies the flavors.
  • Slow Cooker Method: For an alternative approach, use a slow cooker. Cook on low for 8 hours, allowing for a hands-off approach.
  • Liquid Smoke: A few drops of liquid smoke can add a wonderful depth if you’re craving that BBQ flavor.