Chinese Style Country Ribs
Tender country style spareribs coated in a sweet and savory Chinese-inspired glaze, perfect for slow cooking to develop rich flavors. The combination of soy sauce, orange marmalade, and garlic creates a delightful balance of sweet, tangy, and savory notes. Ideal for casual family dinners or entertaining guests.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine soy sauce, orange marmalade, catsup, and crushed garlic in a bowl.
- Brush the mixture on both sides of the spareribs.
- Place the ribs in a slow cooker.
- Pour the remaining sauce over the ribs.
- Cover and cook on low for 8 to 10 hours.
Tips & Substitutions
For enhanced flavor, marinate the ribs in the sauce overnight before cooking. If you don't have orange marmalade, peach or apricot preserves can work well as substitutes. Adding a pinch of red pepper flakes can introduce a nice kick. If you're short on time, consider using a pressure cooker to reduce cooking time significantly.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Chinese Style Country Ribs with steamed white rice or noodles to soak up the delicious sauce. A side of Cabbage Crunch (Chinese Salad) adds a refreshing crunch that complements the rich flavors of the ribs. For a complete meal, consider pairing with sautéed vegetables or a simple stir-fry.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the ribs in a baking dish and cover with foil, then warm in a 300°F oven for about 20 minutes, or until heated through. Alternatively, you can reheat them in the microwave, but be cautious not to overcook.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Chinese Style Country Ribs contains roughly 64 calories, with 2g protein, 15g carbohydrates, and 0g fat. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2123mg per serving (92% 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 use another cut of meat for this recipe?
Yes, while country style spareribs are recommended for their tenderness, you can substitute with pork shoulder or even chicken thighs. Adjust the cooking time accordingly, as different meats will require varying times to become tender.
Is it possible to cook this recipe in the oven?
Absolutely! If you prefer oven cooking, preheat your oven to 300°F, place the ribs in a covered dish, and bake for about 3-4 hours, basting with the sauce occasionally, until the meat is tender and pulls away from the bone.
Can I make this dish in advance?
Yes, this dish is great for meal prep! You can cook the ribs ahead of time and store them in the fridge. Just reheat before serving. The flavors will deepen as they sit, making it even more delicious the next day.
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).