Sweet And Sour Ribs
Sweet and Sour Ribs offer tender pork ribs glazed with a tangy sauce, complemented by sweet pineapple chunks and crisp green peppers. This dish combines savory, sweet, and tart flavors, making it perfect for family dinners or entertaining guests who enjoy bold, flavorful Asian-inspired cuisine.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Place the pork ribs in a pot and cover with cold water.
- Bring to a boil, then simmer for 10 minutes.
- Drain and rinse the ribs in cold water.
- Place the ribs in a roasting pan.
- Sprinkle the ribs with salt and pepper.
- Bake at 450°F (232°C) for 15 minutes until lightly browned.
- Pour off excess fat from the ribs.
- Add pineapple chunks and green pepper strips to the pan.
- Bake for an additional 10 minutes until the vegetables are tender and the ribs are cooked through.
Tips & Substitutions
For a thicker sauce, mix the cornstarch with a bit of cold water before adding it to the ribs. You can substitute the pork ribs with chicken thighs for a lighter option. If you prefer a spicier kick, add some sliced jalapeños to the dish. This recipe can also be adapted to include different vegetables, such as carrots or snap peas, for added color and flavor.
Serving Suggestions
These sweet and sour ribs are perfect served over steamed white rice or alongside Fried Rice (Chinese) for a complete meal. You can also pair them with a fresh salad or some steamed broccoli for a balanced dinner. For a fun gathering, serve with appetizers like Phyl'S Famous Egg Rolls to complement the flavors.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover sweet and sour ribs 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 heat in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes, or until warmed through. This helps retain moisture and keep the ribs tender.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Sweet And Sour Ribs contains roughly 657 calories, with 10g protein, 133g carbohydrates, and 3g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (36% of the Daily Value), protein (20% of the Daily Value), and iron (20% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 3000mg per serving (130% 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 a slow cooker for this recipe?
Yes, you can adapt this recipe for a slow cooker. After boiling and browning the ribs, place them in the slow cooker with the sauce ingredients and vegetables. Cook on low for 6-8 hours until the ribs are tender and flavorful.
What can I do if I don't have pineapple chunks?
If you don't have pineapple chunks, you can use canned diced peaches or mangoes for a similar sweet and tangy flavor. Alternatively, fresh pineapple can be chopped and added for a vibrant taste. Just ensure to adjust the sweetness in the sauce if using less sweet fruit.
How do I make the sauce spicier?
To add some heat to the sauce, consider incorporating chili sauce, red pepper flakes, or even sriracha. Start with a small amount and adjust to your preference. This enhances the dish without overpowering the sweet and sour balance.
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).