Tender, fall-off-the-bone ribs bathed in a rich, subtly sweet coconut milk braise – that's the promise of this authentic Vietnamese recipe. Forget dry, tough ribs; this method delivers melt-in-your-mouth perfection with a delightful balance of savory and tropical flavors. The fragrant blend of coconut milk, fish sauce, garlic, and ginger creates a complex sauce that clings beautifully to each rib, making this dish a true culinary delight. It's surprisingly easy to achieve these incredible results, even for home cooks.
This recipe takes the guesswork out of creating restaurant-quality coconut braised ribs. We'll guide you through each step, from prepping the ribs for maximum tenderness to mastering the perfect braising technique. Ready to experience the magic of crispy, coconut-infused ribs? Let's dive into the detailed, step-by-step instructions below.
Tools Needed
- Pot
- Skewers or similar for meat
- Spatula
Ingredients
- Baby ribs: 1 kg
- Coconut water: 500 ml
- Grated coconut meat
- Purple garlic
- Sugar: 4 tablespoons
- Salt: 1-2 teaspoons
- Seasoning powder: 2 teaspoons
- Fish sauce: ½ tablespoon
- Lemon: 1 small piece
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1. Prepare the Ribs and Marinade
- Wash and soak the baby ribs in diluted salt water for 10-15 minutes to remove any fishy smell. Drain well.
- Mix salt, seasoning powder, and a small squeeze of lemon juice.
- Marinate the ribs in the mixture for about 30 minutes in the refrigerator.
Step 2. Make the Coconut Sauce
- In a pan, melt sugar until it caramelizes. Add coconut water and simmer.
- Add fish sauce to the sauce and mix well.
- In a separate pan, heat some oil and sauté minced garlic until fragrant.
Step 3. Braising the Ribs
- Add the marinated ribs to the pan and stir-fry until they firm up.
- Pour the coconut sauce over the ribs. Reduce heat and simmer for 25-30 minutes, or until the ribs are tender.
- Add the grated coconut meat during the last 10-15 minutes of cooking. Simmer until the sauce thickens slightly.
Step 4. Serve
- Serve hot. Optionally, leave some sauce for dipping vegetables.
Read more: Vietnamese Braised Pork Ribs: A Step-by-Step Guide
Tips
- Using skewers or similar to pierce the ribs before braising helps them cook evenly and become tender more quickly.
- A small amount of lemon juice in the marinade helps tenderize the ribs and enhances their flavor.
- Don't overcook the coconut meat, as it may become tough. Add it only during the last 10-15 minutes.
- Adjust the amount of fish sauce according to your preference and the saltiness of the fish sauce used.
Nutrition
- N/A
FAQs
1. Can I use other types of meat instead of ribs?
While ribs are traditional, you can substitute with pork shoulder or even chicken for a similar braising effect. Adjust cooking time accordingly.
2. How can I make the ribs extra crispy?
After braising, increase oven temperature to 400°F (200°C) for 10-15 minutes to crisp the ribs. Alternatively, broil them for a few minutes, watching carefully to avoid burning.
This recipe for Crispy Coconut Braised Ribs offers a delicious and surprisingly simple way to enjoy the vibrant flavors of Vietnamese cuisine. From the tender meat to the rich, aromatic sauce, this dish is sure to become a family favorite. So gather your ingredients, and get ready to experience the irresistible taste of these incredible ribs!