Satisfy Your Cravings with this Delicious Deep Fried Pork Ribs Recipe

If you're a fan of Chinese cuisine, you've likely come across deep-fried pork ribs. This appetizer is a favourite in Chinese eateries, cherished for its crunchy texture and strong taste. Fortunately, you can replicate this dish in the comfort of your home! By using the correct ingredients and techniques, you can whip up tasty deep-fried pork ribs in your own kitchen.

To start, you'll need pork ribs, which can be found at most grocery stores. You'll also need ingredients such as garlic, ginger, soy sauce, and cornstarch. Some recipes may call for additional ingredients, such as Chinese five-spice powder or Shaoxing wine. If you're feeling adventurous, you can even add seafood to the recipe, such as shrimp or scallops.

Once you have your ingredients, the preparation process involves marinating the pork ribs in a mixture of seasonings and spices. After marinating, the ribs are coated in cornstarch and deep-fried until crispy. The end result is a delicious and flavourful appetizer that's perfect for sharing with friends and family. With a little practice, you'll be able to perfect this Chinese classic in no time.

Key Takeaways

• Deep-fried pork ribs are a popular appetizer in Chinese cuisine known for their crispy texture and bold flavour.
• The recipe typically involves marinating the pork ribs in a mixture of seasonings and spices and deep-frying them until crispy.
• Seafood, such as shrimp or scallops, can be added to the recipe for an extra twist on the classic dish.

Ingredients and Substitutions

Main Ingredients

The main ingredients for deep-fried pork ribs are pork ribs and oil. You can use any type of pork ribs you prefer, but it is recommended to use younger pig ribs as they are more tender. As for the oil, vegetable oil or peanut oil can be used for deep-frying.

Sauces and Seasonings

The marinade for deep-fried pork ribs usually consists of garlic, ginger, soy sauce, oyster sauce, salt, white pepper, and cornstarch. Some recipes may also include sesame oil, five spice powder, vinegar, honey, black pepper, rock sugar, scallion, or chili peppers. These seasonings add flavour to the pork ribs and enhance the overall taste of the dish.

Substitution Options

If you don't have some of the ingredients listed above, you can substitute them with other ingredients. For example, if you don't have oyster sauce, you can use hoisin sauce or soy sauce instead. If you don't have white pepper, you can use black pepper instead. If you want to add a seafood twist to the dish, you can use shrimp or prawns instead of pork ribs. Simply marinate the seafood in the same marinade as the pork ribs and deep-fry them until crispy.

Overall, the ingredients and seasonings used for deep-fried pork ribs are flexible and can be adjusted according to your preferences. Just make sure to deep-fry the pork ribs until they are crispy and golden brown for the perfect texture.

Preparation Steps

To prepare Chinese deep-fried pork ribs, you will need to go through three main stages: marinating the ribs, coating the ribs, and setting up for deep frying. Here's how to do it:

Marinating the Ribs

1. Cut the pork ribs evenly (whatever length you like). You can ask the butcher at the meat counter to cut these for you.
2. Rinse the pork ribs well.
3. In a large bowl, mix together the following ingredients:
   • 5 garlic cloves, roughly chopped
   • 5 slices of ginger
   • 1.5 teaspoons (7 ml) oyster sauce
   • 1 teaspoon (5 ml) salt
   • .5 teaspoon (3 ml) ground black pepper
   • 1 tablespoon Shaoxing wine (optional)
   • 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
4. Add the pork ribs to the bowl and mix well to ensure that the marinade covers all the ribs.
5. Cover the bowl with cling film and leave it in the fridge for at least 30 minutes (or overnight if you have the time).

Coating Process

1. In a separate bowl, mix together the following ingredients:
   • ¼ cup to ⅓ cup starch
   • ¼ cup flour
   • 1 teaspoon baking soda
2. Take the marinated pork ribs out of the fridge and let them sit at room temperature for 10-15 minutes.
3. Coat each rib with the flour mixture. Shake off any excess flour.
4. Dip each rib in cold water and then coat it with the flour mixture again.
5. Shake off any excess flour and set the ribs aside.

Setting Up for Deep Frying

1. Heat up a wok or a deep frying pan with enough cooking oil to deep-fry the pork ribs.
2. Once the oil is hot enough (around 180°C), carefully place the coated pork ribs in the wok.
3. Fry the ribs until they turn golden brown and crispy on both sides.
4. Use a slotted spoon to remove the ribs from the wok and place them on a paper towel to drain the excess oil.
5. Serve the deep-fried pork ribs hot with your favourite dipping sauce.

If you want to add some seafood to the recipe, you can try adding some shrimp or squid to the marinade. Make sure to clean and devein the shrimp and cut the squid into small pieces before adding them to the marinade. The seafood will add a nice flavour and texture to the dish.

Cooking Technique

Deep Frying the Ribs

Deep frying is an essential part of cooking Chinese-style pork ribs. It is important to use a deep-fry method to ensure that the ribs are cooked evenly and are crispy on the outside. To deep-fry the ribs, you will need to heat up a pot of oil to a temperature of around 350°F. The oil should be heated up on low heat to ensure that it doesn't overcook the ribs.

When deep-frying the ribs, it is important to ensure that they are moist and not too dry. To achieve this, you can marinate the ribs in a mixture of salt, pepper, and corn starch before deep-frying. This will help to keep the ribs moist and tender during the cooking process.

It is also important to note that deep-frying pork ribs can be high in fat and calories. To reduce the amount of saturated fat, you can use lean pork ribs or seafood such as prawns or squid as a substitute.

Post-Fry Seasoning

After deep-frying the ribs, it is important to season them with a mixture of spices to enhance their flavour. The post-fry seasoning can include garlic, ginger, soy sauce, and oyster sauce. You can also add a pinch of salt and pepper to taste.

To reduce the amount of sodium in the recipe, you can use low-sodium soy sauce and oyster sauce. It is also important to note that pork ribs are high in cholesterol, so it is best to consume them in moderation.

In conclusion, deep-frying Chinese-style pork ribs is a delicious way to prepare this dish. By following the cooking technique outlined above and using seafood or lean pork ribs, you can enjoy this dish while keeping the fat and calories in check.

Serving and Presentation

Plating the Dish

When it comes to plating the deep-fried garlic pork ribs, it is important to choose a serving plate that complements the dish. A rectangular or oval-shaped plate is a great option for serving this dish. You can also use a bamboo steamer basket to give the dish an authentic touch.

To plate the dish, place the deep-fried pork ribs on the serving plate or in the steamer basket. Arrange the ribs in a neat and orderly fashion. You can also stack the ribs to create a more dramatic effect.

Garnishing

Garnishing the deep-fried garlic pork ribs is a great way to add a pop of colour and flavour to the dish. Toasted sesame seeds and chopped scallions are a great option for garnishing this dish. Sprinkle the sesame seeds and scallions over the pork ribs to add a touch of freshness and crunch.

If you want to make the dish more filling, you can serve it with a side of rice or noodles. This will turn the deep-fried garlic pork ribs into a main course that is perfect for lunch or dinner.

Seafood can also be a great addition to this dish. You can use prawns or squid to create a seafood version of this recipe. Simply marinate the seafood in the same way as the pork ribs and deep fry until golden brown. Serve the seafood alongside the pork ribs for a delicious and satisfying meal.

Overall, the deep-fried garlic pork ribs are a delicious and easy-to-make appetizer or main course. With a few simple garnishes and plating techniques, you can turn this dish into a showstopper that is sure to impress your guests.

Nutritional Information

If you're looking for a tasty and comforting meal, deep-fried Chinese pork ribs are a great option. These ribs are a rich source of protein, which is essential for building and repairing muscles. They also contain iron, which is important for maintaining healthy blood cells and preventing anemia.

However, it's important to note that deep-fried pork ribs are high in calories and saturated fat. Consuming too much saturated fat can increase your risk of heart disease. To reduce the amount of saturated fat in this dish, you can try using leaner cuts of pork or substituting some of the pork with seafood like shrimp or scallops.

If you're concerned about your sodium intake, you may want to limit your consumption of this dish. Deep-fried pork ribs can be high in sodium due to the use of soy sauce and other seasonings. To reduce the sodium content, you can try using low-sodium soy sauce or reducing the amount of soy sauce used in the recipe.

Here's a breakdown of the nutritional information for a typical serving of deep-fried Chinese pork ribs:

Nutrient	Amount per serving
Calories	450
Carbohydrates	15g
Protein	25g
Saturated Fat	10g
Cholesterol	90mg
Sodium	800mg
Fiber	1g
Iron	2mg
Potassium	300mg
Calcium	30mg
Vitamin A	50IU

As you can see, deep-fried pork ribs are a high-calorie and high-fat dish. While they can be enjoyed as an occasional treat, it's important to consume them in moderation. If you're looking to make this dish a bit healthier, consider incorporating seafood like shrimp or scallops. These options are low in saturated fat and high in protein, making them a great addition to this recipe.

Frequently Asked Questions

How can I make deep fried pork ribs without them being too oily?

To make deep fried pork ribs without them being too oily, make sure the oil is hot enough before frying. Also, pat the pork ribs dry with a paper towel to remove any excess moisture. Another tip is to use cornstarch instead of flour as it will create a crispy coating and absorb less oil.

What's the secret to getting that authentic Chinese flavour in fried pork ribs?

The secret to getting that authentic Chinese flavour in fried pork ribs is to use ingredients such as oyster sauce, soy sauce, and Chinese five-spice powder. Garlic and ginger are also commonly used in Chinese cuisine. For an extra kick of flavour, you can add some dried chilli flakes or Szechuan peppercorns.

Is there a way to prepare deep fried pork ribs in the oven?

Yes, you can prepare deep fried pork ribs in the oven by using a baking rack to elevate the ribs and allow the excess fat to drip off. Preheat the oven to 200°C and bake the ribs for 20-25 minutes until crispy and golden brown.

How do you achieve crispy salt and pepper ribs like the ones from a Chinese takeaway?

To achieve crispy salt and pepper ribs like the ones from a Chinese takeaway, first marinate the pork ribs with salt, pepper, and Chinese five-spice powder. Then, coat the ribs with cornstarch before frying. After frying, sprinkle some salt and pepper on the ribs while they're still hot.

Can I use an air fryer for making Chinese salt and pepper ribs?

Yes, you can use an air fryer for making Chinese salt and pepper ribs. Preheat the air fryer to 180°C and cook the ribs for 15-20 minutes until crispy and golden brown.

What are some tips for cooking spare ribs to ensure they're tender and not dry?

To ensure spare ribs are tender and not dry, marinate them for at least 30 minutes to overnight before cooking. Slow-cooking is also a great method for tender ribs. You can cook them in a slow cooker or oven at a low temperature for several hours. Additionally, adding a bit of seafood such as shrimp or scallops to the marinade can help to tenderize the meat and add extra flavour.