Char siu, the iconic Cantonese barbecue pork, is a culinary masterpiece that tantalizes the taste buds with its irresistible blend of sweet, savory, and subtly smoky flavors. These succulent ribs, glistening with a rich, reddish-brown glaze, are a beloved dish enjoyed throughout Hong Kong and beyond. The aromatic marinade, a carefully balanced symphony of soy sauce, honey, and spices, is key to achieving that signature char siu taste – a flavour so deeply ingrained in Cantonese cuisine that it transcends mere food, becoming a symbol of cultural heritage. Forget takeout; mastering this dish at home is easier than you think.
This recipe provides a simplified yet authentic approach to making incredibly flavorful char siu ribs, perfect for both experienced cooks and enthusiastic beginners. We’ll guide you through each step, from preparing the marinade to achieving that perfect caramelized finish. Ready to embark on this culinary adventure? Let's dive into the detailed, step-by-step process to create your own unforgettable char siu ribs.
Tools Needed
- Pan
- Bowl
- Scale (optional)
Ingredients
- Baby Ribs: 500g
- Minced Garlic
- Sugar: 1 teaspoon
- MSG: 1/3 teaspoon
- Fish Sauce: 1 tablespoon
- Tomato Sauce: 1 tablespoon
- Ground Pepper
- Char Siu Sauce: 35g (half a 70g package)
- Cooking Oil: 1 tablespoon
- Broth: 1 cup
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1. Prepare the Ribs
- Wash ribs thoroughly with vinegar and salt water. Cut into bite-sized pieces.
Step 2. Marinate the Ribs
- Marinate ribs with minced garlic, sugar, MSG, fish sauce, tomato sauce, ground pepper, and char siu sauce. Marinate for 30 minutes to 1 hour.
Step 3. Sauté and Stir-fry
- Heat cooking oil in a pan. Sauté remaining minced garlic until golden and fragrant.
- Add marinated ribs to the pan. Stir-fry until firm and dry.
Step 4. Simmer and Serve
- Add broth to the pan. Reduce heat and simmer until ribs are cooked through, turning occasionally for even seasoning.
- Remove ribs from pan and serve.
Read more: Vietnamese Grilled Pork: A Delicious BBQ Recipe
Tips
- If you prefer a brothier dish, turn off the heat before the ribs are completely dry.
- For a more fragrant dish, stir the ribs more frequently during cooking.
Nutrition
- N/A
FAQs
1. Can I use a different type of meat instead of pork ribs?
While pork ribs are traditional, you can experiment with pork shoulder or even chicken. Adjust cooking time accordingly; chicken will cook much faster.
2. How do I store leftover char siu ribs?
Store leftover ribs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave.
With a little patience and these simple steps, you've successfully crafted incredibly flavorful and fragrant char siu ribs. Enjoy the satisfying aroma and rich taste of this Cantonese classic, perfect for sharing with friends and family. Now go forth and impress everyone with your newfound char siu mastery!