Mary KellyYou know there’s nothing quite like the rich, tender bite of perfectly cooked spare ribs. Picture this: you’re gathered around a table filled with family and friends, the aroma of garlic, soy sauce, and tender meat wafting through the air.
This is what P.F. Chang’s Northern Style Spare Ribs bring to the table. But have you ever thought about what to serve with them? I love pairing these savory gems with a fresh, zesty Italian pasta salad or a crunchy Asian slaw. The acid from those sides complements the sweetness of the ribs. It’s a match made in foodie heaven!
You might be asking yourself: why bother with making these spare ribs at home when you could easily order takeout? Well, my friend, let me enlighten you! When I first encountered this recipe, the idea of crafting my own spare ribs excited me. It was as if I had stumbled upon a secret guide to culinary prowess.
Using fresh ingredients allows you to experience both the quality of the dish and the pride of making it yourself. Getting hands-on in the kitchen brings an element of joy that takeout simply cannot replace. Plus, there’s something rewarding about mastering a recipe that sings of sweet and savory notes.
As I gathered my ingredients, I couldn’t help but feel excitement bubbling inside me. The thought of those tender ribs glazed in a luscious sauce made my mouth water. Let me share what goes into making these exquisite Northern Style Spare Ribs!
Ingredients List
Gather these items, and you’ll be well on your way:
- 4 pounds spare ribs or baby back ribs
- 2 tablespoons Chinese five-spice powder: This spice blend adds an aromatic kick that beautifully enhances the flavor.
- 1 tablespoon light brown sugar: This helps to caramelize the ribs and imparts a subtle sweetness.
- 1 tablespoon kosher salt (or 2 teaspoons table salt): Essential for flavor and juiciness.
- ½ cup water: Using water in the cooking process helps to steam the ribs, making them tender.
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce (optional): For an added layer of savory depth.
- 1 teaspoon ground ginger (optional): For a touch of warmth and spice that elevates the dish.
How to Make P.F. Chang Northern Style Spare Ribs
Let’s dive into the step-by-step process. You will discover that creating this dish is quite simple yet incredibly rewarding.
Step 1: Prepping the Ribs
Start by preheating your oven to 300°F (about 150°C). This slow cooking is essential for getting those ribs fall-off-the-bone tender. Using a sharp knife, remove the thin membrane from the back of the ribs. This membrane can be tough, and removing it allows your seasonings to penetrate the meat.
Step 2: Seasoning the Ribs
In a bowl, mix the Chinese five-spice powder, brown sugar, and kosher salt. Rub this mixture all over the ribs, ensuring every inch is covered. It’s okay to get a little messy here—let’s face it, cooking is an experience!
Step 3: Arrange for Cooking
Place the seasoned ribs in a large baking dish or on a rimmed sheet. Add the water to the bottom of the dish to keep the ribs moist during cooking. If you like, drizzle the soy sauce on top of the ribs. It’ll help create a deeper flavor profile.
Step 4: Baking the Ribs
Cover the dish tightly with aluminum foil. This is key because it traps steam and keeps the meat moist. Now, pop those ribs into the preheated oven and let them bake away for about 2.5 to 3 hours. Trust me, you’ll want to take a whiff every once in a while!
Step 5: The Glaze (Optional, but Worth It!)
While the ribs are baking, you can prepare a glaze if you like. Mix equal parts honey and soy sauce in a small saucepan over low heat until combined. This sweet-salty glaze will add an irresistible shine to the ribs in their final stage.
Step 6: Broil for a Finish
Once the ribs are incredibly tender, carefully remove them from the oven. Discard the aluminum foil, and brush on your glaze if you’ve prepared one. Set your oven to broil and return the ribs for an additional 5-10 minutes. Keep a close eye on them to avoid burning!
Step 7: Serve and Enjoy!
Once you pull them out, let them rest for a few minutes before slicing between the bones. Arrange them on a serving platter, and get ready for the compliments to roll in.
Recipe Notes
- Spare Ribs vs. Baby Back Ribs: Spare ribs are meatier and have a different fat content compared to baby back ribs. Choose what suits your taste and budget.
- Chinese Five-Spice Powder: This blend typically includes star anise, cloves, Chinese cinnamon, Sichuan pepper, and fennel seed. It adds a warm exotic flavor that’s simply delightful.
- Brown Sugar: Using light brown sugar creates a subtle caramelization, while dark brown sugar can add a richer flavor. Both work well.
- Kosher vs. Table Salt: Kosher salt is less salty by volume, so you may consider adjusting the amount if you are using table salt.
- Optional Ingredients: While the recipe works well without the ginger and soy sauce, including them can introduce layers of flavor you don’t want to miss out on.
Recipe Variations
If you’re feeling adventurous, here are a few variations to keep things exciting:
- Spicy Version: Add red pepper flakes to the dry rub for a bit of heat.
- Honey Garlic Glaze: Use honey, soy sauce, garlic powder, and a touch of ginger for a sweet, garlicky finish.
- Smoky Twist: Incorporate smoked paprika into the spice mix for a smoky flavor without using a grill.
- Asian BBQ Sauce: Try topping the finished ribs with your favorite Asian barbecue sauce for an extra punch.
- Vegetarian Alternative: Substitute ribs with grilled eggplant or portobello mushrooms for a plant-based delight.
- Herb Infusion: Toss in fresh herbs like cilantro or basil into the glaze for a fresh touch.
P.f. Chang Northern Style Spare Ribs
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Start by preheating your oven to 300°F (about 150°C). This slow cooking is essential for getting those ribs fall-off-the-bone tender. Using a sharp knife, remove the thin membrane from the back of the ribs. This membrane can be tough, and removing it allows your seasonings to penetrate the meat.
- In a bowl, mix the Chinese five-spice powder, brown sugar, and kosher salt. Rub this mixture all over the ribs, ensuring every inch is covered. It’s okay to get a little messy here—let’s face it, cooking is an experience!
- Place the seasoned ribs in a large baking dish or on a rimmed sheet. Add the water to the bottom of the dish to keep the ribs moist during cooking. If you like, drizzle the soy sauce on top of the ribs. It’ll help create a deeper flavor profile.
- Cover the dish tightly with aluminum foil. This is key because it traps steam and keeps the meat moist. Now, pop those ribs into the preheated oven and let them bake away for about 2.5 to 3 hours. Trust me, you’ll want to take a whiff every once in a while!
- While the ribs are baking, you can prepare a glaze if you like. Mix equal parts honey and soy sauce in a small saucepan over low heat until combined. This sweet-salty glaze will add an irresistible shine to the ribs in their final stage.
- Once the ribs are incredibly tender, carefully remove them from the oven. Discard the aluminum foil, and brush on your glaze if you’ve prepared one. Set your oven to broil and return the ribs for an additional 5-10 minutes. Keep a close eye on them to avoid burning!
- Once you pull them out, let them rest for a few minutes before slicing between the bones. Arrange them on a serving platter, and get ready for the compliments to roll in.
Notes
- Spare Ribs vs. Baby Back Ribs: Spare ribs are meatier and have a different fat content compared to baby back ribs. Choose what suits your taste and budget.
- Chinese Five-Spice Powder: This blend typically includes star anise, cloves, Chinese cinnamon, Sichuan pepper, and fennel seed. It adds a warm exotic flavor that’s simply delightful.
- Brown Sugar: Using light brown sugar creates a subtle caramelization, while dark brown sugar can add a richer flavor. Both work well.
- Kosher vs. Table Salt: Kosher salt is less salty by volume, so you may consider adjusting the amount if you are using table salt.
- Optional Ingredients: While the recipe works well without the ginger and soy sauce, including them can introduce layers of flavor you don’t want to miss out on.
Tried this recipe?
Let us know how it was!Frequently Asked Questions
Conclusion
Creating P.F. Chang’s Northern Style Spare Ribs at home is a rewarding process. Not only do you get to enjoy the satisfaction of a homemade meal, but you also dive deep into flavors that will wow your family and friends. Each bite tells a story of culinary adventure and love.
As you explore, remember: cooking is more than just combining ingredients—it’s about connecting, sharing, and nourishing. So don’t hesitate. Grab those ribs, gather your friends around the table, and enjoy a feast of flavors that scream comfort and happiness. Cheers to your cooking journey!
