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Imagine this: the comforting aroma of garlic and coconut wafts through your kitchen, enveloping you in a warm embrace just as you finish a long day. There’s something undeniably satisfying about taking the time to create a meal that not only fills your belly but also warms your soul. I whipped up these Braised Pork Spare Ribs in Coconut Water after searching for a way to infuse vibrant flavors into an unassuming cut of meat, and let me tell you, the results are astonishing.

This dish combines tender, juicy spare ribs with the subtly sweet and aromatic notes of coconut water, creating a harmony that transports your taste buds straight to the tropics. Plus, the addition of quail eggs adds an unexpected twist that will surely impress your friends and family. So, whether you’re looking for a show-stopping centerpiece for your next gathering or just craving a cozy night in, this recipe promises to elevate your dining experience. Let’s dive into the easy steps to create this culinary delight!

Why will you love Braised Pork Spare Ribs?

Unforgettable Flavor: The blend of coconut water and savory seasonings results in an irresistible taste that will leave your guests raving.
Easy Preparation: With just a few simple steps, even novice cooks can create this show-stopping dish effortlessly.
Versatile Dish: These ribs shine as a main course or as part of a delightful spread for any occasion.
Time-Saving Meal: In just over an hour, you’ll have a comforting meal that caters to your cravings without spending all day in the kitchen.
Crowd-Pleasing Delight: With the addition of optional quail eggs, this recipe becomes a stunning centerpiece sure to impress your friends and family.
For more exciting recipes, check out our delicious Asian-inspired dishes.

Braised Pork Spare Ribs Ingredients

For the Ribs
• Pork spare ribs – 1.5 lb, cut into 2×1 pieces for the perfect balance of tender meat and flavorful sauce.
• Garlic – 7 cloves minced, adding a delightful aroma and depth of flavor.
• Fish sauce – ¼ c, which lends a savory umami punch that enhances the overall taste.
• Sweet soy sauce – 1 tbsp, bringing just the right amount of sweetness to contrast with the savory elements.
• Paprika – ½ tsp, providing a touch of color and mild smokiness.
• White pepper – ¼ tsp, which adds a subtle heat without overwhelming the dish.
• Black pepper – ¼ tsp, enhancing the seasoning profile with its bold flavor.

For Cooking
• Thai chilies – 2 small, for those who crave a bit of heat; adjust according to your spice tolerance.
• Vegetable oil – 2 tbsp, ideal for searing the ribs and developing that beautiful golden crust.
• Coconut water – 2 – 2.5 c, or juice, essential for braising the ribs to perfection while infusing tropical sweetness.

Optional Additions
• Quail eggs – 10, boiled and peeled, making for a delightful surprise in each bite.
• Cilantro – 2 sprigs, chopped, for a fresh herbal finish that brightens the dish.
• Green onion – 2 sprigs, chopped, adding a crunchy texture and mild onion flavor.
• Fried garlic – 1 tsp, optional, for an extra layer of crunch and garlicky goodness that’s simply irresistible.

This Braised Pork Spare Ribs recipe is not just a dish; it’s an experience that unites flavors in a way that dazzles. Enjoy preparing your delightful feast!

How to Make Braised Pork Spare Ribs

Marinate: In a large mixing bowl, combine the pork spare ribs with the garlic, fish sauce, sweet soy sauce, paprika, white pepper, and black pepper. Mix thoroughly and let them marinate for at least 30 minutes to absorb all those delightful flavors.
Sear: Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Carefully add the marinated pork ribs and brown them on all sides for approximately 4 to 5 minutes, achieving a lovely golden crust.
Add Coconut Water: Once the ribs are browned, pour in enough coconut water to cover them. Increase the heat to high and bring the mixture to a boil for about 30 to 40 seconds, allowing the flavors to meld together.
Simmer: Lower the heat to medium-high, then cover and let the ribs simmer for 20 minutes. This will make them tender and infuse them with aromatic goodness.
Incorporate Quail Eggs: Gently add the boiled quail eggs to the pan and cook for an additional 10 minutes. The eggs will soak up the delicious sauce while heating through.
Reduce Sauce: Reduce the heat to medium-low and continue to cook for another 10 minutes or until the liquid has thickened and reduced by almost two-thirds, stirring occasionally for even cooking.
Finish and Garnish: When the meat is tender and the sauce has a wonderful thick consistency, turn off the heat. Garnish your dish generously with chopped cilantro, green onion, and optional fried garlic for an irresistible finish.
Serve: Plate your braised pork spare ribs hot, and enjoy with a steaming bowl of rice to soak up all the delicious sauce.

Optional: Serve with extra lime wedges for a zesty kick.

Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

Braised Pork Spare Ribs Variations

Feel free to tailor this recipe to suit your taste buds and dietary needs for an even more delightful experience!

Dairy-Free: Swap any creamy sides for coconut milk or cashew cream to keep it rich without dairy.
Spicy Kick: Add more Thai chilies or even a dash of Sriracha for those who love an extra heat burst.
Honey Glazed: Drizzle 1-2 tablespoons of honey into the braise to amplify the sweetness and balance out the savory flavors.
Mushroom Magic: Toss in shiitake or oyster mushrooms while simmering for an earthy twist that enhances the umami profile.
Vegetarian Option: Substitute pork with firm tofu or tempeh for a plant-based delight that soaks up the delicious coconut flavors.
Tropical Twist: Add pineapple chunks during the braising process for a fruity surprise that’ll elevate the tropical essence of the dish.
Herb Infusion: Experiment with fresh herbs like basil or mint for a refreshing change that complements the coconut.
Nutty Crunch: Top your dish with toasted peanuts or cashews for an unexpected crunch and added depth of flavor.

With these variations, you can make this already amazing recipe your own! Enjoy the adventure in every bite.

What to Serve with Braised Pork Spare Ribs?

Creating a memorable meal is all about the perfect accompaniments that enhance the main dish without overpowering it.

Fluffy Jasmine Rice: The delicate aroma and texture of jasmine rice perfectly soak up the rich coconut sauce, balancing the flavors beautifully.
Crisp Asian Slaw: This refreshing salad adds a crunchy texture and zesty notes, providing a delightful contrast to the tender, sticky ribs. Toss together cabbage, carrots, and a sesame vinaigrette for a vibrant side.
Garlic Bok Choy: Steamed or sautéed, bok choy with a hint of garlic brings a light and healthy green element to your plate, making it visually appealing and nourishing.
Sweet and Sour Cucumber Salad: This bright salad features crisp cucumbers bathed in a sweet and tangy dressing, refreshing your palate and complementing the rich ribs.
Chili Lime Quinoa: This wholesome grain mixed with zesty lime and a pop of chili packs flavor and offers a hearty, nutty element to your meal.
Mango Sticky Rice: Indulge in a touch of dessert by serving sweet sticky rice topped with fresh mango. The tropical sweetness echoes the coconut flavors of the dish.
Refreshing Coconut Drink: Pair your meal with a chilled coconut water or a coconut-infused cocktail for a cohesive taste experience that stays true to the tropical theme.
Sweet Chili Sauce: A small bowl of salted sweet chili sauce for dipping adds an extra flavor layer, allowing guests to customize their bites for more heat or sweetness.

Each of these pairings brings its own delightful flavor profile, proving that well-thought-out sides can elevate your experience with these Braised Pork Spare Ribs!

Expert Tips for Braised Pork Spare Ribs

Marination Magic: Allow your ribs to marinate for at least 30 minutes, or even overnight if you have time, to enhance the flavors deeply.
Browning Basics: Ensure your skillet is hot enough when searing the ribs. A proper sear locks in the juices and creates that enticing golden color.
Coconut Water Quality: Use good quality coconut water for the best flavor. Fresh or canned options work well; just avoid those with added sugars.
Egg Timing: If you include quail eggs, add them later in the cooking process to avoid overcooking. They only need about 10 minutes to warm up and soak in the sauce.
Watch the Sauce: Keep an eye on your sauce as it reduces. It should thicken nicely, but stirring occasionally will ensure it doesn’t burn.
Serving Style: For a vibrant finish, sprinkle fresh cilantro and green onions just before serving. This adds color and a fresh taste, making your Braised Pork Spare Ribs truly irresistible.

How to Store and Freeze Braised Pork Spare Ribs

Fridge: Store leftover braised pork spare ribs in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Ensure the ribs are cooled to room temperature before refrigerating to maintain their tenderness.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the ribs in a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 3 months. Remove as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn.

Reheating: To reheat, thaw in the fridge overnight if frozen, then warm in a skillet over low heat with a splash of coconut water to retain moisture. Alternatively, microwave on medium power until heated through.

Serving Tip: Enjoy these flavorful ribs warmed up alongside fluffy rice, just like you did when they were freshly cooked!

Make Ahead Options

These Braised Pork Spare Ribs are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts looking to save time during busy weeknights! To enjoy this dish with minimal fuss, you can marinate the pork spare ribs up to 24 hours in advance; just mix the ribs with the garlic, fish sauce, sweet soy sauce, and spices, then refrigerate them in an airtight container. You can also sear the ribs a day ahead, allowing for rich flavor development when you simmer them later. When you’re ready to serve, simply add the coconut water and follow the usual cooking steps. Trust me, your Braised Pork Spare Ribs will taste just as delicious, with the added benefit of making mealtime a breeze!

Braised Pork Spare Ribs Recipe FAQs

How do I select the right pork spare ribs?
Absolutely! When choosing pork spare ribs, look for those with a good balance of meat and fat. The best ribs have a bright pink color with marbling throughout, indicating tenderness and flavor. Avoid any with dark spots or a dry appearance, as these might indicate poor quality or spoilage.

How long can I store leftover braised pork spare ribs in the fridge?
You can store the leftover ribs in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Make sure they cool completely to room temperature before placing them in the refrigerator. This helps maintain their juicy flavor and tenderness!

Can I freeze braised pork spare ribs? If so, how?
Yes, you can freeze your braised pork spare ribs! For the best results, place them in a freezer-safe bag or container, making sure to remove as much excess air as possible to prevent freezer burn. They can be safely stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw them overnight in the fridge before reheating.

What if my sauce isn’t thickening properly?
No worries, it happens to the best of us! If your sauce isn’t thickening, try raising the heat to medium-high and let it simmer uncovered for a few extra minutes, stirring frequently to cook off excess liquid. You can also mix a 1 tsp of cornstarch with a bit of water and stir it into the sauce, allowing it to reach that delicious, thick consistency you desire.

Are there any dietary restrictions to consider with this recipe?
Indeed! This recipe contains several ingredients that may not be suitable for everyone. Keep in mind the fish sauce, which can trigger allergies. For a fish-free alternative, you can substitute soy sauce or a gluten-free tamari. Furthermore, if you’re serving this dish to pets, remember that spices like garlic and onions can be harmful, so ensure they stick to their own treats!

Can I add more spice or heat to the dish?
Very much so! If you enjoy a little more kick, consider adding extra Thai chilies or even a dash of hot sauce during cooking. Just taste as you go, adjusting gradually to find that perfect level of spice that suits your palate. The more the merrier when it comes to flavor!