Stewed Spareribs With Pineapple

Prep: 20 min Cook: 30 min Serves: 4 Cuisine: Chinese

A savory and sweet stew of tender spareribs cooked with pineapple, soy sauce, and aromatic seasonings, perfect for those who enjoy rich flavors with a tropical twist.

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Ingredients

  • 1 lb. spareribs
  • 1/3 fresh pineapple
  • 1 sliced shallot
  • 2 Tbsp. soy sauce (light)
  • 1 Tbsp. rice wine
  • dash of pepper
  • 3/4 c. water
  • 1 tsp. cornstarch
  • 3/4 Tbsp. sugar
  • 1/2 tsp. salt
  • 1/2 tsp. salt

Instructions

  1. Soak the pineapple in light salty water, then drain.
  2. Cut the pineapple into pieces.
  3. Wash, wipe dry, and chop the spareribs into 1-inch lengths.
  4. Add marinade and let it set for 20 minutes.
  5. Deep fry the spareribs in hot oil until they turn light brown.
  6. Drain excess oil from the spareribs.
  7. Combine soy sauce, rice wine, pepper, water, sugar, and salt to make the sauce.
  8. Add the fried spareribs and pineapple to the sauce.
  9. Simmer until the flavors meld and the sauce thickens.

Tips & Substitutions

For a deeper flavor, marinate the spareribs for a few hours or overnight. If you prefer a sweeter sauce, add a bit more sugar or use honey as a substitute. If fresh pineapple is unavailable, canned pineapple can work in a pinch, but be sure to drain it well. Experiment with different soy sauce varieties, such as dark soy sauce, for a richer color and taste.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the stewed spareribs over a bed of fluffy white rice to absorb the delicious sauce. This dish pairs beautifully with Nappa Chinese Cabbage Salad for a refreshing crunch. You can also add steamed vegetables like broccoli or bok choy on the side to round out the meal and add more nutrients.

Storage & Reheating

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm the dish in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth to prevent it from drying out. Alternatively, you can microwave it for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Stewed Spareribs With Pineapple contains roughly 1128 calories, with 9g protein, 7g carbohydrates, and 120g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (27% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 784mg per serving (34% of the Daily Value).

1128 kcal 56% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 9.3g 19% DV
Total Fat 120.2g 100% DV
Carbs 6.6g 2% DV
Fiber 1.3g 5% DV
Sugar 0.6g 1% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 783.7mg 34% DV
Potassium 262.4mg 6% DV
Cholesterol 31.1mg 10% DV

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 4.7mcg 1% DV
Vitamin C 23.9mg 27% DV
Vitamin D 0.3mcg 2% DV
Calcium 12.1mg 1% DV
Iron 0.6mg 3% DV
Diet fit Keto-friendly
Contains Soy

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 type of meat instead of spareribs?

Yes, you can substitute spareribs with pork belly or chicken thighs for a different flavor profile. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly, as chicken will cook faster than pork. Ensure the meat is tender and well-marinated for the best results.

What can I do if the sauce is too thick?

If your sauce thickens too much during simmering, simply add a little more water or broth to reach your desired consistency. Stir well to combine and bring it back to a gentle simmer until heated through.

Is this dish suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! This dish is great for meal prep as the flavors intensify when stored. Prepare a larger batch and divide it into portions. It keeps well in the fridge, making it a convenient option for quick lunches or dinners throughout the week.

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).

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