Taiwanese-style Barbecue Ribs

Ingredients

While the original American barbecue ribs are typically smoky and tangy, this Taiwanese adaptation adds a touch of sweetness to the dish. The marinade incorporates traditional Taiwanese ingredients like soy sauce, garlic, and ginger, resulting in a flavor profile that is both familiar and exciting. We alse have the original recipe for Barbecue Ribs, so you can check it out.

• 2 pounds (900g) pork ribs 2 pounds (900g) pork ribs
• 1/2 cup (120ml) soy sauce 1/2 cup (120ml) soy sauce
• 1/4 cup (60ml) hoisin sauce 1/4 cup (60ml) hoisin sauce
• 1/4 cup (60ml) honey 1/4 cup (60ml) honey
• 3 cloves garlic, minced 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon grated ginger 1 tablespoon grated ginger
• 2 tablespoons rice vinegar 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
• 1 tablespoon sesame oil 1 tablespoon sesame oil
• 1 teaspoon five-spice powder 1 teaspoon five-spice powder
• 1/2 teaspoon white pepper 1/2 teaspoon white pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon chili flakes (optional) 1/4 teaspoon chili flakes (optional)
• 2 green onions, thinly sliced (for garnish) 2 green onions, thinly sliced (for garnish)
• Sesame seeds (for garnish) Sesame seeds (for garnish)

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 450 kcal / 1880 KJ
• Fat: 25g (Saturated Fat: 8g)
• Carbohydrates: 20g (Sugars: 15g)
• Protein: 35g
• Fiber: 1g
• Salt: 2g

Preparation

1. 1.
   Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F).
2. 2.
   In a bowl, combine soy sauce, hoisin sauce, honey, minced garlic, grated ginger, rice vinegar, sesame oil, five-spice powder, white pepper, and chili flakes (if desired).
3. 3.
   Place the pork ribs in a large ziplock bag and pour the marinade over them. Seal the bag and massage the marinade into the ribs, ensuring they are evenly coated. Let marinate in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours, or overnight for best results.
4. 4.
   Remove the ribs from the marinade, reserving the marinade for basting.
5. 5.
   Place the ribs on a baking sheet lined with aluminum foil. Bake in the preheated oven for 1.5 to 2 hours, or until the meat is tender and starts to pull away from the bones.
6. 6.
   While the ribs are baking, pour the reserved marinade into a small saucepan and bring to a boil. Reduce the heat and simmer for 5 minutes to thicken the sauce.
7. 7.
   After the ribs have baked for the initial cooking time, brush them with the thickened marinade sauce. Return the ribs to the oven and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the glaze is sticky and caramelized.
8. 8.
   Remove the ribs from the oven and let them rest for a few minutes. Sprinkle with sliced green onions and sesame seeds for garnish.
9. 9.
   Serve the Taiwanese-style Barbecue Ribs hot and enjoy!

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Pork ribs — For tender ribs, marinate them overnight to allow the flavors to penetrate the meat. If you prefer a spicier kick, add more chili flakes to the marinade.
• Hoisin sauce — Look for a gluten-free hoisin sauce if you have dietary restrictions. Adjust the amount of hoisin sauce according to your taste preference for sweetness.
• Five-spice powder — If you don't have five-spice powder, you can make your own by combining equal parts ground cinnamon, cloves, fennel seeds, star anise, and Sichuan peppercorns.

Tips & Tricks

• For a smoky flavor, you can finish the ribs on a grill instead of baking them in the oven. Baste them with the thickened marinade sauce while grilling.
• If you prefer a spicier glaze, add a dash of hot sauce or chili paste to the marinade.
• Serve the ribs with steamed rice and a side of pickled vegetables for an authentic Taiwanese meal.
• To make the ribs extra tender, you can wrap them in foil before baking. This helps to retain moisture and intensify the flavors.
• Leftover ribs can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat them in the oven or microwave before serving.

Serving advice

Serve the Taiwanese-style Barbecue Ribs as a main course, accompanied by steamed rice and a side of pickled vegetables. Garnish with sliced green onions and sesame seeds for an attractive presentation.

Presentation advice

Arrange the ribs on a platter, drizzle any remaining glaze over them, and sprinkle with sliced green onions and sesame seeds. Serve with a vibrant side of pickled vegetables to add color and freshness to the dish.