These braised pork ribs are tender, juicy, and packed with flavor! They cook low and slow, letting all the tasty spices soak in. Perfect for a cozy meal!
Whenever I make these ribs, I can’t help but lick my fingers afterward! Serve with rice or potatoes, and you’ve got a warm, homey dinner to enjoy.
Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Ribs: Use baby back ribs or spare ribs for juicy, tender results. If you’re looking for a leaner option, try boneless pork shoulder. Both will still yield great flavors!
Onions: Sweet onions add a nice flavor. If you’re out, yellow onions work perfectly too. Don’t skip this ingredient since they add depth to the sauce!
Wine: Dry red wine enhances the flavor, but if you prefer to skip it, substitute with extra broth or a splash of balsamic vinegar for acidity.
Herbs: Fresh thyme is lovely here. If you can’t find it, dried thyme is a great substitute. Just remember to use less, as dried herbs are more concentrated.
Worcestershire Sauce: This adds complexity. If you don’t have it, try soy sauce or a splash of apple cider vinegar for similar flavors.
How Do I Get My Pork Ribs Tender?
The key to tender pork ribs lies in slow cooking. By letting them simmer gently, the collagen in the meat breaks down, resulting in perfectly tender ribs. Here’s how:
- Brown the ribs first. This step adds flavor through caramelization.
- Keep the heat low and cover the pot. This traps moisture, creating a tender environment.
- Don’t rush the cooking time. Allow for at least 2 hours; check for tenderness with a fork. You want the meat to fall off the bone!
After cooking, let the sauce simmer uncovered to thicken. This step intensifies the flavors and gives you a richer sauce to coat those scrumptious ribs!
How to Make Braised Pork Ribs
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- For the Ribs:
- 3 pounds pork ribs, cut into individual pieces
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- For the Base:
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 medium carrots, chopped
- For the Sauce:
- 1 cup crushed tomatoes or tomato sauce
- 2 cups beef or chicken broth
- 1/2 cup dry red wine (optional)
- 2 sprigs fresh thyme (or 1 teaspoon dried thyme)
- 1 bay leaf
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce (optional)
- For Serving:
- Cooked white rice or mashed potatoes
- Fresh thyme or parsley, for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious braised pork ribs recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare and 2 to 2½ hours to simmer. The long cooking time makes the ribs tender and flavorful, so plan ahead for a comforting meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Season the Ribs:
Start by generously seasoning the pork ribs with salt and black pepper on all sides. This step is important for enhancing the flavor of the meat.
2. Brown the Ribs:
In a large heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Add the ribs in batches, browning them on all sides for about 3-4 minutes per side. Once they are a nice golden color, remove them from the pot and set them aside.
3. Sauté the Vegetables:
In the same pot, add the chopped onion and carrots. Sauté for about 5-7 minutes until they are softened and lightly caramelized, which will build a solid flavor base for the sauce.
4. Add Garlic:
Add minced garlic and sauté for another minute until it becomes fragrant, making the kitchen smell wonderful!
5. Prepare the Sauce:
Stir in the crushed tomatoes (or tomato sauce), paprika, and dried oregano. Cook this mixture for about 2 minutes to deepen the flavors, mixing well.
6. Add Liquid:
Pour in the broth and red wine (if you’re using it), scraping up any browned bits stuck to the bottom of the pot to incorporate all that yummy flavor into the sauce.
7. Combine Ribs and Herbs:
Return the browned ribs back into the pot. Add the thyme sprigs and bay leaf. If you’re using Worcestershire sauce, stir it in now as well.
8. Simmer:
Bring the mixture to a boil. Then, reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot and let it simmer gently for about 2 to 2½ hours, or until the ribs are fork-tender and the meat falls off the bone easily.
9. Thicken the Sauce:
Remove the ribs and keep them warm. Turn up the heat and let the sauce simmer uncovered for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it thickens slightly.
10. Final Flavor Check:
Taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed, ensuring it’s perfect for your taste.
11. Combine and Serve:
Add the ribs back into the sauce to warm through before serving.
12. Enjoy!
Serve the braised pork ribs hot over cooked white rice or mashed potatoes. Don’t forget to garnish with fresh thyme or parsley for a beautiful presentation!
Now you can dig into this rich, comforting dish! Perfect for gatherings or cozy dinners at home!
Can I Use Other Cuts of Meat?
Absolutely! While pork ribs are traditional, you can also use pork shoulder or beef short ribs. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly, as different cuts will require varying amounts of time to become tender.
Is It Possible to Make This Recipe in a Slow Cooker?
Yes, you can adapt this recipe for a slow cooker! After browning the ribs and sautéing the vegetables, transfer everything to the slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for about 4 hours until the ribs are tender. Just be sure to thicken the sauce on the stove if desired afterward.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover ribs in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth or water if needed to keep the sauce moist.
Can I Freeze Braised Pork Ribs?
Yes! Once the ribs have cooled to room temperature, you can freeze them in an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating for the best results.