sticky sweet & spicy ribs

yummy yummy

These ribs are simply addictive.  I've taken a recipe that my mom uses and tweaked it a little. Originally, this recipe is called "12345 ribs" (translated from Mandarin) and has been a family favourite for as long as I can remember - whenever my mom makes this there are no left over ribs but the sauce is so good we keep it and pour it over rice or noodles at our next meal.  The 12345 indicates the ratio of ingredients in the recipe - 1 part sherry, 2 part vinegar, 3 part sugar, 4 part soy sauce, and 5 part water.  In this version I've added chillies, shallots and garlic for an extra spicy kick and flavour.  You really want to try this recipe, I promise you'll love it!

what you need:

for every 1 lb of ribs 

• 1 lb pork side ribs (we've always used side ribs, but you could use any cut you like)
• 1 tbsp sherry
• 2 tbsp vinegar
• 3 tbsp brown sugar
• 4 tbsp naturally brewed soy sauce
• 5 tbsp water
• 1 tbsp cornstarch
• 1 large shallot
• 2 garlic cloves
• 1 red thai chilli
• 1 green onion
• 1 tsp toasted sesame seeds
• 1 tbsp cooking oil

what to do:

1. Rinse ribs with cold water then pat dry.  Cut so that the ribs are individualized, or in two's.
2. Toss ribs in a bowl with cornstarch.
3. Smash garlic and roughly chop.  Cut shallot into quarters.  Finely chop red thai chilli.
4. Measure out the 12345 ingredients and whisk together in a bowl.
5. Heat oil in a pot on medium.  Put ribs in one layer at a time, and allow to brown on both sides.  You may need to do this in batches if you're cooking more than 1 lb of ribs.  Remove ribs from heat and set aside - they don't need to be cooked through at this point, just lightly browned.
6. Pour 12345 ingredients into pot slowly to deglaze (lifting the browned meat flavour) - and bring to a gentle boil, add in the garlic, shallot, and return the ribs back to the pot.  Turn it down to a simmer and cover with a lid.  Continue to cook for 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally.
7. Thinly slice green onion and get sesame seeds ready for garnish.
8. Uncover and allow to simmer for another few minutes, until the sauce thickens slightly and is sticky.  Taste, and at this point you can add salt and pepper, or more sugar, if desired.
9. Remove from heat and plate ribs garnished with green onions and sesame seeds sprinkled on top.  Serve it on top of rice or noodles to absorb the tasty sauce - enjoy!

this was about 3 lbs of side ribs
so I adjusted the recipe accordingly