Chinese Ribs
Tender Chinese-style spareribs with a savory soy and m.s.g. marinade, perfect for a flavorful main dish that pairs well with fried rice and pineapple chunks.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix soy sauce, sugar, and m.s.g. in a bowl.
- Cut ribs in two pieces and wash.
- Marinate ribs in the soy sauce mixture for at least 2 hours.
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Place ribs on a broiling rack and cook for 1 hour.
- Turn ribs over halfway through cooking.
- Serve ribs with fried rice and pineapple chunks.
Tips & Substitutions
For extra flavor, consider adding minced garlic or ginger to the marinade. If you don't have m.s.g., you can substitute with soy sauce, which enhances umami. For a sweeter glaze, add honey or hoisin sauce. If spareribs are unavailable, baby back ribs can also work well, though cooking time may vary slightly.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Chinese ribs alongside fried rice and pineapple chunks for a refreshing contrast. They also pair beautifully with a side of Stir-Fried Bok Choy or a light Chinese Veggie Salad to balance the richness of the meat. A chilled beverage like jasmine tea complements the dish well.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the ribs on a baking sheet and cover with foil to retain moisture, then warm them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes until heated through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Chinese Ribs contains roughly 107 calories, with 9g protein, 0g carbohydrates, and 7g fat. It is a good source of protein (18% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I grill the ribs instead of baking them?
Yes, grilling is a great alternative! After marinating, preheat the grill to medium heat and cook the ribs for about 20-25 minutes, turning occasionally until they are nicely charred and cooked through. This method adds a smoky flavor to the dish.
How can I make this recipe spicier?
To add some heat, incorporate red pepper flakes or a splash of chili oil into the marinade. You might also consider serving the ribs with a spicy dipping sauce made from soy sauce, vinegar, and chili paste for an extra kick.
Can I prepare the marinade in advance?
Absolutely! You can mix the marinade ingredients a day ahead and store it in the refrigerator. This allows the flavors to meld together, enhancing the taste of the ribs when you marinate them before cooking.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).