sweet sour pork ribs recipe

Written ByJenny Smyth Posted on
sweet sour pork ribs recipe
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The Best sweet sour pork ribs recipe

I’m so excited to share with you my favorite sweet and sour pork ribs recipe. This dish has been a staple in our household for years, and I’ve perfected the technique over time.

The combination of tangy and sweet flavors, along with the tender texture of the pork ribs, makes it a crowd-pleaser. My family loves it when I serve this recipe at family gatherings, and it’s always a hit.

Plus, it’s relatively healthy compared to other fried or processed foods. The key to this recipe is using a mixture of sugar, vinegar, and soy sauce to create that perfect balance of flavors.

It’s also essential to cook the ribs low and slow to achieve that fall-off-the-bone tenderness. I like to serve this dish with steamed vegetables or rice to round out the meal.

My kids even request this recipe for their birthdays, which is high praise from them! The best part about this recipe is how easy it is to make ahead of time and refrigerate or freeze for later use.

It’s perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions alike.

Sweet and Sour Pork Ribs

Sweet and Sour Pork Ribs

4.7 from 1762 votes

Tender pork ribs glazed in a tangy sweet and sour sauce, perfect for a hearty meal. The ribs are first braised until fork-tender, then caramelized with a glossy sauce.

Prep Time20 mins
Cook Time1 hour 30 mins
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time1 hour 50 mins
Servings: 4Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 480 kcal

🥘Ingredients

For the Ribs

2 lbs pork spare ribs, cut into individual ribs
1 tbsp vegetable oil
4 slices ginger
3 cloves garlic, smashed
2 cups water
2 tbsp soy sauce
1 tbsp rice vinegar
1 tbsp brown sugar

For the Sweet and Sour Sauce

1/2 cup ketchup
1/4 cup rice vinegar
1/4 cup brown sugar, packed
2 tbsp soy sauce
1 tbsp cornstarch mixed with 2 tbsp water (slurry)
1 tsp sesame oil

For Garnish

1 tbsp toasted sesame seeds
2 green onions, sliced

👨‍🍳Directions

1Heat vegetable oil in a large pot over medium-high heat.
2Add the pork ribs and sear for 3 to 4 minutes per side until browned.
3Remove ribs and set aside.
4In the same pot, add ginger and garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
5Return ribs to pot, then add water, soy sauce, rice vinegar, and brown sugar.
6Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 1 hour until ribs are tender and easily pierced with a fork.
7While ribs simmer, prepare the sweet and sour sauce.
8In a small bowl, whisk together ketchup, rice vinegar, brown sugar, and soy sauce until smooth.
Set aside.
9Once ribs are tender, remove them from the pot and set aside.
10Discard the cooking liquid or reserve for another use.
11Wipe the pot clean.
12Return the pot to medium heat and add the prepared sweet and sour sauce.
13Bring to a simmer, then stir in the cornstarch slurry.
14Cook for 1 to 2 minutes, stirring constantly, until the sauce thickens and becomes glossy.
15Add the cooked ribs to the pot and toss to coat evenly with the sauce.
16Cook for 2 to 3 minutes over medium heat until the ribs are heated through and the sauce clings to them.
17Drizzle with sesame oil and stir once.
18Transfer the ribs to a serving platter.
19Garnish with toasted sesame seeds and sliced green onions.
Serve immediately.

🔧Equipment

Large pot or Dutch oven
Small bowl
Cutting board
Chef’s knife
Tongs

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 480 kcal🧈Total Fat: 28g💛Saturated Fat: 10g❤️Cholesterol: 110mg🧂Sodium: 900mg🌾Total Carbs: 32g🥦Dietary Fiber: 1g🍬Sugars: 24g🥩Protein: 26g

📝Notes

For extra tenderness, marinate ribs in soy sauce and ginger overnight. Adjust sweetness or sourness by varying brown sugar and vinegar amounts.

Watch Video Of How Sweet and Sour Pork Ribs Works

This sweet and sour pork ribs recipe is a game-changer for any occasion. It’s easy to make ahead of time, stores well in the fridge, and reheats beautifully.

Plus, it’s packed with protein and flavor from the pork ribs and tangy sauce. My family loves it when I serve this dish at family gatherings or just on a busy weeknight when we need something quick and easy.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Sweet and Sour Pork Ribs

What type of pork ribs are best for this recipe?

I prefer to use baby back pork ribs for this recipe because they are leaner and more tender than spare ribs. You can also use spare ribs if you can’t find baby back ribs, but keep in mind they may be fattier.

Can I make this recipe in a slow cooker?

Yes, you can make this recipe in a slow cooker! Simply brown the ribs in a pan first, then transfer them to the slow cooker with the sauce and cook on low for 6-8 hours.

How do I adjust the level of sweetness in the sauce?

If you prefer your sauce less sweet, simply reduce the amount of sugar called for in the recipe or omit it altogether. You can also add more sugar if you prefer it sweeter.

Can I use fresh pineapple instead of canned pineapple?

Yes, you can use fresh pineapple if you prefer! Just chop it up into small pieces and add it to the sauce along with the other ingredients.

How long does this recipe store in the fridge?

This recipe will keep in the fridge for up to 5 days. Simply reheat it in a pan or oven before serving.

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