Mandarin Spare Ribs

For a spicier marinade, add crushed red pepper flakes or Sriracha sauce.

Make sure to baste the ribs frequently while cooking to keep them from drying out.

Try garnishing the spare ribs with sliced green onions or sesame seeds before serving.

Let the spare ribs rest for a few minutes before cutting to allow the juices to redistribute.

What is the purpose of marinating the spare ribs? Can I marinate them for less time?

Marinating the spare ribs helps infuse them with flavor while also making them more tender. The flavor is best when marinated for the time called for but even a couple of hours will help add flavor. Marinating less than 1 hour probably won't help much but you could baste more frequently with the sauce while cooking to help add flavor.

Can I substitute the pork spareribs with another type of meat?

You can use beef ribs, chicken, or even tofu as alternatives to pork spareribs. Just adjust the cooking time as needed.

Can I grill the spare ribs instead of baking them in the oven?

You can grill the spare ribs over medium (indirect) heat until they are cooked through, basting with the reserved sauce.

How long can I store leftover spare ribs?

Leftover spare ribs can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave before serving.

Can the spare ribs be frozen?

You can freeze the spare ribs once they have been cooked. Place them in a freezer-safe container or bag for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Can I use something other than orange marmalade?

You can use different fruit preserves such as apricot, pineapple, or grape, or honey or agave syrup. You want something sweet to balance the salty soy sauce. You could also use orange juice but the reserved sauce used for basting will be thinner.

Bowl: For combining the marinade ingredients - soy sauce, orange marmalade, garlic, ground ginger, and black pepper. A second bowl or container is needed for the reserved marinade.

Measuring Cups and Spoons: For measuring the soy sauce, orange marmalade, ginger, and black pepper.

Baking Dish: To hold the ribs while they are marinated in the sauce.

Basting Brush: For evenly brushing the sauce over the ribs.

Plastic Wrap or Lid: For covering the baking dish while the ribs marinate in the refrigerator.

Roasting Pan with Rack: For transferring the ribs for baking in the oven.

Knife: To cut the ribs into serving pieces after they are cooked.

Tongs: Helpful for turning and basting the ribs while they bake.

Grilled Pineapple: The sweet caramelization of grilled pineapple creates a tropical contrast with the tangy ribs.

Coleslaw: A crunchy, creamy coleslaw adds a refreshing flavor that's perfect for cutting through the richness of the ribs.

Sesame Green Beans: Lightly sauteed green beans with sesame seeds bring a crisp texture and nutty flavor.

Garlic Fried Rice: A simple garlic fried rice provides a filling side that complements the Asian-inspired marinade.

Cucumber Salad: A tangy cucumber salad with rice vinegar offers a refreshing palate cleanser that sharpens the flavors and adds brightness to the dish.

Sweet Potato Wedges: Roasted sweet potato wedges with a sprinkle of salt can add a caramelized sweetness that echoes the orange in the ribs, balancing savory and sweet nicely.

Asian Slaw: A light slaw made with napa cabbage, carrots, and a sesame vinaigrette pairs well with the Asian elements of the ribs.

Toasted Sesame Seeds: Sprinkled over the ribs right before serving, these seeds add a nice crunch and a toasty flavor.