Sweet and sour pork ribs are a quintessential dish in Vietnamese cuisine, celebrated for their harmonious blend of flavors that perfectly balance tangy sweetness, subtle richness, and mouthwatering aromas. This beloved dish holds a special place in the hearts of many, thanks to its flavorful combination of spices, the succulence of the pork ribs, and its versatility in complementing a variety of meals.
Beyond its incredible taste, sweet and sour pork ribs also embody the artistry of Vietnamese cooking, which often emphasizes the balance of flavors and the careful selection of fresh ingredients. Whether served as a highlight of a cozy family dinner or as a special addition to a festive gathering, this dish never fails to impress.
Table of Contents
Ingredients
| Ingredients | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Pork ribs | 750g |
| Tomatoes | 2 |
| Onion | 1 |
| Pineapple | 1/3 |
| Bell pepper | 150g |
| Shallots | 2 |
| Garlic | 4 cloves |
| Green onion | 2 stalks |
| Sushi vinegar | 2 tbsp |
| Sugar | 2 tbsp |
| MSG | 1/2 tsp |
| Seasoning powder | 1 tbsp |
| Salt | a pinch |
| Pepper | a pinch |
| Soy sauce | 2 tbsp |
| Cooking oil | 3 tbsp |
| Cornstarch | 1 tbsp |
| Ketchup | 1 tbsp |
| Oyster sauce | 1/2 tbsp |
| Water | 100ml |
| Lemon juice | 1/3 tbsp |
How to Make Sweet and Sour Pork Ribs
1. Prepare the Ingredients
- Pork Ribs: Clean the pork ribs, cut them into bite-sized pieces, blanch in hot water, and drain.
- Marinate the Ribs: Mix the ribs with 1 tablespoon of sugar, 1 tablespoon of seasoning powder, a pinch of salt, a pinch of pepper, a pinch of MSG, and 1/2 tablespoon of soy sauce. Marinate for about 20 minutes to allow the flavors to penetrate.
2. Cooking
- Fry the Ribs: Coat the marinated ribs with 1 tablespoon of cornstarch. Heat oil in a pan and fry the ribs until golden brown, then remove them from the pan. Fry again on high heat for a crispier texture.
- Sauté the Vegetables: Sauté chopped shallots and garlic until fragrant. Add tomatoes and pineapple to stir-fry quickly for about 5 minutes. Then, add bell pepper, stir-fry briefly, and add onion. Season with a pinch of pepper and transfer the mixture to a bowl.
3. Prepare the Sauce
In a bowl, mix together 1 tablespoon of ketchup, 1 tablespoon of sugar, 1/2 tablespoon of oyster sauce, 2/3 tablespoon of soy sauce, 100ml of water, 1/3 tablespoon of lemon juice, a pinch of pepper, and 2 tablespoons of sushi vinegar.
4. Cook the Ribs
Pour the sauce mixture into the pan and bring to a boil. Next, add the fried ribs, stirring well. Then add the sautéed vegetables and mix everything together until well combined.
5. Finish
Garnish with chopped green onion and serve. Your sweet and sour pork ribs are ready to be enjoyed!
Quick Tips for Extra Flavor
- For Crispier Ribs: When frying a second time, ensure the heat is high for a short duration.
- To Make It More Appealing: Sprinkle some toasted sesame seeds on top before serving.
Sweet and sour pork ribs not only deliver fantastic flavor but also create a delightful contrast between the crispy texture of the ribs and the sweet and sour notes from the vegetables, providing an exciting culinary experience for your family meals. With this simple recipe and easily obtainable ingredients, you can effortlessly create this dish to enrich your daily menu or impress guests during special occasions. Try it out and savor the difference that sweet and sour pork ribs can bring!
Wishing you successful cooking and delicious meals shared with family and friends!
