Chinese Spareribs Sticky Sweet Savory Style are a classic dish loved for their tender texture and irresistible balance of sweet, savory, and aromatic flavors. Glazed with soy sauce, honey or sugar, garlic, and warm spices, these ribs are slow-cooked or baked until perfectly juicy and caramelized.
Chinese Spareribs :
Often served at family dinners, festive gatherings, or as part of a Chinese-style spread, Chinese spareribs are comforting yet celebratory. Their glossy coating and deep umami taste make them a standout dish that pairs beautifully with rice, noodles, or simple stir-fried vegetables.
History:
Chinese Spareribs have their roots in traditional Cantonese cooking, where pork is a central ingredient. Early versions were braised or roasted with soy sauce, sugar, rice wine, and spices to create rich, layered flavors. Over time, regional variations emerged, including honey-glazed, red-fermented, and five-spice versions. Today, Chinese spareribs are popular worldwide, especially in Chinese restaurants and home kitchens.
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Chinese Spareribs Sticky Sweet Savory Style
Ingredients
- 1 kg pork spareribs, cut into pieces
- 3 tbsp soy sauce
- 2 tbsp hoisin sauce
- 2 tbsp honey or brown sugar
- 1 tbsp rice vinegar or Chinese black vinegar
- 1 tbsp Shaoxing wine (or dry sherry)
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp grated ginger
- ½ tsp five-spice powder
- ½ tsp black pepper
- 1 tbsp sesame oil
- 1 tbsp cornstarch (optional, for thicker glaze)
- Sesame seeds and chopped spring onions for garnish
Instructions
- Clean and pat dry the spareribs.
- In a bowl, mix soy sauce, hoisin sauce, honey, vinegar, Shaoxing wine, garlic, ginger, five-spice powder, pepper, and sesame oil.
- Marinate the ribs for at least 30 minutes for better flavor.
- Preheat oven to 180°C (350°F). Arrange ribs on a baking tray and cover loosely with foil.
- Bake for 40 minutes, turning once.
- Remove foil, brush ribs with remaining sauce, and bake uncovered for another 15–20 minutes until sticky and caramelized.
- Garnish with sesame seeds and spring onions before serving.
Notes
- Baby back ribs can be used instead of spareribs.
- Marinating longer enhances flavour depth.
- Oven-baking gives consistent caramelization.
- Cornstarch helps thicken the glaze if needed.
- Adjust sweetness according to taste.
Tips for Chinese Spareribs:
- Turn ribs frequently to prevent burning.
- Brush extra sauce during the last 10 minutes for shine.
- Line the tray with foil for easy cleanup.
- Rest ribs for 5 minutes before serving.
- Serve with steamed rice or fried rice for a complete meal.
FAQs for Chinese Spareribs:
Q1: Can I cook Chinese spareribs on the stovetop?
Yes, they can be braised on low heat until tender, then glazed.
Q2: Are Chinese spareribs spicy?
Traditionally no, but chili sauce can be added for heat.
Q3: Can I grill these ribs?
Yes, grilling adds a smoky flavor but watch carefully to avoid burning.
Q4: What cut of pork is best?
Pork spareribs are ideal due to their fat content and tenderness.
Q5: How long can leftovers be stored?
Store refrigerated for up to 3 days in an airtight container.
Conclusion:
Chinese Spareribs Sticky Sweet Savory Style are a timeless favorite that bring together rich flavors, tender meat, and irresistible aroma. Whether baked, braised, or grilled, these sweet and savory ribs are perfect for both everyday meals and special occasions, making them a must-try classic in Chinese cuisine.