There’s something truly comforting about the flavors of Cantonese cuisine. Known for its balance of sweet, salty, and umami notes, it offers a delightful array of dishes that can turn any meal into a gathering of taste and tradition. Among these delights, Cantonese steamed spare ribs with black bean sauce hold a special place in the hearts of many food lovers. Simple, unpretentious, and absolutely delicious, this recipe is a perfect way to bring a taste of Hong Kong to your dining table.
The Flavor Profile
At the core of this dish lies the harmony between tender pork spare ribs and the deeply flavorful black bean sauce. Fermented black beans add a unique savory depth, accented by garlic, soy sauce, and a hint of sugar. The steaming process ensures that the pork remains juicy and tender while allowing the rich flavors of the marinade to seep into each rib. This dish embodies the essence of Cantonese cooking—it’s all about enhancing the natural flavors of the ingredients while maintaining simplicity.
Ingredients
To make Cantonese steamed spare ribs with black bean sauce, you will need:
1 lb (450g) pork spare ribs (cut into small bitesized pieces)
2 tablespoons fermented black beans (rinsed and roughly chopped)
2 cloves garlic (minced)
1 tablespoon ginger (grated)
2 tablespoons soy sauce
1 tablespoon rice wine (or dry sherry)
1 tablespoon oyster sauce
1 teaspoon sugar
1 teaspoon sesame oil
1/2 teaspoon cornstarch
Fresh cilantro (for garnish, optional)
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Marinade
In a mixing bowl, combine the chopped fermented black beans, minced garlic, grated ginger, soy sauce, rice wine, oyster sauce, sugar, sesame oil, and cornstarch. Mix well until all ingredients are incorporated.
Step 2: Marinate the Ribs
Add the pork spare ribs to the marinade, making sure they are evenly coated. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or transfer the ribs to a resealable bag. Let the ribs marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes, or ideally for a few hours to overnight for maximum flavor.
Step 3: Steam the Ribs
Preparation is key when it comes to steaming. Place the marinated ribs in a single layer on a heatproof plate. Fill a steamer pot or wok with water and bring it to a boil. Carefully place the plate of ribs into the steamer, cover with a lid, and steam for about 3035 minutes until the pork is cooked through and tender.
Step 4: Serve and Enjoy
Once done, carefully remove the plate from the steamer. Garnish with fresh cilantro if desired. Serve the Cantonese steamed spare ribs warm, alongside steamed rice and your choice of vegetables for a delightful meal.
Tips for Perfect Spare Ribs
1. Quality Pork: Choose fresh, highquality spare ribs to ensure the best flavor and tenderness.
2. Marination Time: The longer you marinate, the more flavorful your spare ribs will be, so consider marinating overnight.
3. Steaming Method: If you don’t have a steamer, you can use a large pot with a heatproof plate or a steaming rack.
4. Serving Suggestions: For a complete meal, pair with jasmine rice and sautéed greens or a simple stirfry.
Final Thoughts
Cantonese steamed spare ribs with black bean sauce is a dish that encapsulates the essence of homecooked comfort food. Its rich flavors and tender meat make it a perfect centerpiece for any dinner table. Whether you’re recreating a childhood memory or trying your hand at Cantonese cooking for the first time, this recipe is sure to impress with its simplicity and profound taste. Enjoy this uncomplicated yet profoundly satisfying dish as an expression of flavor, love, and cherished culinary tradition.