Vietnamese-style Barbecue Ribs

Ingredients

While the original American barbecue ribs are typically smoky and sweet, this Vietnamese adaptation adds a unique blend of spices and herbs to create a savory and aromatic flavor profile. The marinade incorporates ingredients commonly found in Vietnamese cuisine, such as fish sauce, lemongrass, and ginger, giving the ribs a distinct Vietnamese twist. We alse have the original recipe for Barbecue Ribs, so you can check it out.

• 2 racks of pork ribs (about 2 kg / 4.4 lbs) 2 racks of pork ribs (about 2 kg / 4.4 lbs)
• 4 cloves of garlic, minced 4 cloves of garlic, minced
• 2 stalks of lemongrass, finely chopped 2 stalks of lemongrass, finely chopped
• 2 tablespoons fish sauce 2 tablespoons fish sauce
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 2 tablespoons hoisin sauce 2 tablespoons hoisin sauce
• 2 tablespoons honey 2 tablespoons honey
• 1 tablespoon grated ginger 1 tablespoon grated ginger
• 1 tablespoon five-spice powder 1 tablespoon five-spice powder
• 1 teaspoon black pepper 1 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon sesame oil 1 teaspoon sesame oil
• Fresh cilantro, for garnish Fresh cilantro, for garnish

Nutrition

• Calories: 450 kcal / 1880 KJ
• Fat: 25g (Saturated Fat: 8g)
• Carbohydrates: 15g (Sugars: 10g)
• Protein: 40g
• Fiber: 2g
• Salt: 2g

Preparation

1. 1.
   Preheat the grill to medium-high heat.
2. 2.
   In a bowl, combine the minced garlic, chopped lemongrass, fish sauce, soy sauce, hoisin sauce, honey, grated ginger, five-spice powder, black pepper, and sesame oil.
3. 3.
   Place the racks of pork ribs in a large dish and pour the marinade over them, ensuring they are evenly coated. Cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or overnight for best results.
4. 4.
   Remove the ribs from the marinade and let them come to room temperature.
5. 5.
   Grill the ribs over medium-high heat for about 30-40 minutes, turning occasionally, until they are cooked through and nicely charred.
6. 6.
   Remove the ribs from the grill and let them rest for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh cilantro.
7. 7.
   Serve the Vietnamese-style barbecue ribs hot and enjoy!

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Lemongrass — Remove the tough outer layers and use only the tender inner part for the best flavor.
• Fish sauce — Look for a high-quality fish sauce with no added MSG for authentic Vietnamese taste.
• Five-spice powder — If you can't find pre-made five-spice powder, you can make your own by combining equal parts ground cinnamon, cloves, fennel seeds, star anise, and Szechuan peppercorns.

Tips & Tricks

• For extra tenderness, you can wrap the marinated ribs in foil and bake them in the oven at 150°C (300°F) for 2 hours before grilling.
• If you prefer a spicier kick, add a teaspoon of chili flakes or a finely chopped chili pepper to the marinade.
• Serve the ribs with a side of pickled vegetables and steamed jasmine rice for a complete Vietnamese meal experience.

Serving advice

Serve the Vietnamese-style barbecue ribs as a main course, accompanied by steamed jasmine rice and a side of pickled vegetables. Garnish with fresh cilantro for added freshness and aroma.

Presentation advice

Arrange the grilled ribs on a platter, garnish with fresh cilantro, and drizzle any remaining marinade over the top for an appetizing presentation. Serve with a side of pickled vegetables and steamed jasmine rice.