Vietnamese Pork Spare Rib Soup Recipe - Easy & Delicious

Dive into the comforting warmth of authentic Vietnamese pork spare rib soup, a culinary treasure that’s both incredibly flavorful and surprisingly simple to make. This rich and nourishing broth, simmered with tender pork ribs, aromatic spices, and fresh herbs, is a beloved dish in Vietnam, often enjoyed for breakfast or as a hearty meal any time of day. Imagine the succulent pork falling off the bone, the fragrant broth coating your tongue, and the vibrant freshness of the herbs adding a delightful complexity. It's a taste of Vietnam you can easily recreate in your own kitchen.

This recipe delivers a delicious and authentic Vietnamese pork spare rib soup experience without unnecessary complexities. We'll guide you through each step, from preparing the aromatics to achieving the perfect broth consistency. Ready to embark on this culinary adventure and create a bowl of pure comfort? Let's get started with the step-by-step instructions below.

Tools Needed

  • Pot
  • Peeler
  • Knife

Ingredients

  • Pork spareribs
  • Carrots
  • Potatoes
  • Water
  • Fish sauce: 1-2 tablespoons
  • Sugar: a little
  • Garlic
  • Onion: optional
  • Salt
  • Pepper
  • Barley

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1. Prepare the Ingredients and Blanch the Ribs

  • Start by boiling water in a pot. [Zoom in to show the small bones in the spareribs and how to cut them for bite-sized pieces].
  • Add the pork spareribs to the boiling water.
  • Prepare the carrots and potatoes by peeling and cutting them into bite-sized pieces.
  • Drain the spareribs and rinse them under cold water.
Start by boiling water in a pot. [Zoom in to show the small bones in the spareribs and how to cut them for bite-sized pieces].Add the pork spareribs to the boiling water.Prepare the carrots and potatoes by peeling and cutting them into bite-sized pieces.Drain the spareribs and rinse them under cold water.
Prepare the Ingredients and Blanch the Ribs
  • Marinate the spareribs with fish sauce and a little sugar.
  • While the spareribs marinate, finish cutting the carrots and potatoes.
Marinate the spareribs with fish sauce and a little sugar.While the spareribs marinate, finish cutting the carrots and potatoes.
Prepare the Ingredients and Blanch the Ribs

Step 2. Sauté and Simmer the Ribs

  • In a pot, sauté garlic (or onion if using) in oil.
  • Add the marinated spareribs to the pot.
  • Add water to the pot, adjust quantity as needed.
In a pot, sauté garlic (or onion if using) in oil. Add the marinated spareribs to the pot.Add water to the pot, adjust quantity as needed.
Sauté and Simmer the Ribs

Step 3. Add Vegetables and Season

  • After about 15 minutes of simmering, add the carrots and potatoes.
  • Season with salt, pepper, and a little sugar. Add more fish sauce to taste.
After about 15 minutes of simmering, add the carrots and potatoes.Season with salt, pepper, and a little sugar. Add more fish sauce to taste.
Add Vegetables and Season

Step 4. Cook Until Tender

  • Mix everything well, cover the pot, and let it cook on medium heat until the carrots and potatoes are tender.
Mix everything well, cover the pot, and let it cook on medium heat until the carrots and potatoes are tender.
Cook Until Tender

Read more: Vietnamese Sweet & Sour Fish Soup: A Delicious Comfort Food Recipe

Tips

  • Cut between the small bones in the spareribs for easy eating.
  • Peeling carrots and potatoes before cutting saves time.
  • If you don't like the smell of fish sauce, open windows or light candles.

Nutrition

  • Calories: 250-350
  • Fat: 15-25g
  • Carbs: 10-15g
  • Protein: 20-25g

FAQs

1. Can I use other cuts of pork instead of spare ribs?

While spare ribs provide the best flavor and tenderness, you can substitute with pork shoulder or even pork belly. Just be aware cooking times may vary.

2. How can I make the soup spicier?

Add some chili flakes or a sliced fresh chili pepper to the broth while simmering. Alternatively, serve with a side of sriracha or your favorite hot sauce.

3. Can I make this soup ahead of time?

Absolutely! The soup tastes even better the next day. Store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheat gently before serving.


This easy Vietnamese pork spare rib soup recipe delivers a deeply satisfying and flavorful experience, perfect for a comforting meal or a special occasion. Enjoy the rich broth, tender pork, and vibrant herbs – a taste of authentic Vietnamese cuisine in your own home. Now go forth and enjoy your delicious, homemade bowl of warmth!