Easy Chinese-style Soy Sauce Braised Pork Ribs

soy sauce

🥗Healthier: low-sodium soy sauce

💰Cheaper: tamari

Low-sodium soy sauce reduces sodium intake while tamari is gluten-free.

pork ribs

🥗Healthier: chicken thighs

💰Cheaper: pork shoulder

Chicken thighs are leaner, while pork shoulder is more economical.

rice wine

🥗Healthier: apple cider vinegar

💰Cheaper: white vinegar

Apple cider vinegar adds acidity without alcohol, while white vinegar is cost-effective.

sesame oil

🥗Healthier: olive oil

💰Cheaper: canola oil

Olive oil provides healthy fats, while canola oil is budget-friendly.

Prepare the pork ribs by cutting them into individual pieces.

Blanch the ribs in boiling water for 5 minutes to remove impurities, then drain.

Heat cooking oil in a large pot over medium heat until shimmering.

Add ginger and garlic, sautéing until fragrant, about 1-2 minutes.

Add the blanched ribs to the pot, browning on all sides for 5-7 minutes.

Stir in soy sauce, sugar, rice wine, and water, ensuring the ribs are well coated.

Add star anise, bay leaves, cinnamon stick, and black pepper to the pot.

Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low and cover.

Simmer for 1.5 to 2 hours, stirring occasionally, until the ribs are tender.

Remove the lid and increase heat to medium-high to reduce the sauce, about 10-15 minutes.

Once the sauce thickens, add sesame oil and stir well.

Garnish with chopped green onions before serving.

Cooking Techniques

Spice Level:

Allergens