Cooking Pork Spare Ribs in a Pan: A Delicious and Easy Recipe

Pork spare ribs are a popular dish that can be cooked in a variety of ways, including grilling, baking, and pan-frying. Pan-frying is a great way to cook pork spare ribs because it allows for a crispy exterior and a tender interior. In this article, we will provide a step-by-step guide on how to cook pork spare ribs in a pan.

Choosing the Right Ingredients

Before we dive into the cooking process, it’s essential to choose the right ingredients. Here are some key ingredients you’ll need:

• 2 pounds of pork spare ribs
• 1/4 cup of brown sugar
• 1 tablespoon of smoked paprika
• 1 tablespoon of garlic powder
• 1 tablespoon of salt
• 1 tablespoon of black pepper
• 1 tablespoon of olive oil
• 1 onion, sliced
• 2 cloves of garlic, minced
• 1 cup of barbecue sauce (optional)

Understanding the Different Types of Pork Ribs

There are several types of pork ribs, including baby back ribs, St. Louis-style pork ribs, and spare ribs. Spare ribs are the most common type of pork ribs and are known for their meaty texture and flavorful taste.

What are Spare Ribs?

Spare ribs are the lower section of the pig’s ribcage, typically cut into a rectangular shape. They are meatier than baby back ribs and have a lot of connective tissue, which makes them perfect for slow-cooking.

Preparing the Pork Spare Ribs

Before cooking the pork spare ribs, it’s essential to prepare them properly. Here’s how:

• Rinse the ribs under cold water and pat them dry with paper towels. This will help remove any impurities and excess moisture.
• Remove the membrane from the back of the ribs. This will help the rub penetrate the meat and make the ribs more tender.
• Apply a dry rub to the ribs. Mix together the brown sugar, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper, and apply the rub evenly to both sides of the ribs.

Why is it Important to Remove the Membrane?

The membrane is a thin layer of tissue that covers the back of the ribs. Removing it will help the rub penetrate the meat and make the ribs more tender. It will also help the ribs cook more evenly.

Cooking the Pork Spare Ribs in a Pan

Now that the ribs are prepared, it’s time to cook them. Here’s how:

• Heat a large skillet or sauté pan over medium-high heat. Add the olive oil and swirl it around to coat the bottom of the pan.
• Add the sliced onion to the pan and cook until it’s translucent. This will add flavor to the ribs and create a crispy texture.
• Add the minced garlic to the pan and cook for 1 minute. This will add an extra layer of flavor to the ribs.
• Add the ribs to the pan and cook for 5 minutes on each side. This will create a crispy exterior and a tender interior.
• Reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer the ribs for 20-25 minutes. This will help the ribs cook slowly and absorb all the flavors.
• Brush the ribs with barbecue sauce during the last 5 minutes of cooking. This will add a sweet and tangy flavor to the ribs.

Tips for Cooking Pork Spare Ribs in a Pan

Here are some tips to keep in mind when cooking pork spare ribs in a pan:

• Use a large skillet or sauté pan. This will give the ribs enough room to cook evenly.
• Don’t overcrowd the pan. Cook the ribs in batches if necessary, to ensure they have enough room to cook evenly.
• Use a thermometer. This will help you monitor the internal temperature of the ribs and ensure they are cooked to perfection.

What is the Ideal Internal Temperature for Pork Spare Ribs?

The ideal internal temperature for pork spare ribs is 160°F (71°C). This will ensure the ribs are cooked to perfection and are tender and juicy.

Serving and Enjoying Your Pork Spare Ribs

Now that the ribs are cooked, it’s time to serve and enjoy them. Here are some ideas:

• Serve the ribs with your favorite sides. Some popular sides include coleslaw, baked beans, and corn on the cob.
• Use the ribs in a sandwich. Simply place the ribs on a bun and top with your favorite toppings, such as coleslaw and pickles.
• Use the ribs in a salad. Simply chop the ribs up and add them to your favorite salad.

Conclusion

Cooking pork spare ribs in a pan is a delicious and easy way to prepare this popular dish. By following the steps outlined in this article, you’ll be able to create tender and flavorful ribs that are sure to impress your family and friends. Remember to choose the right ingredients, prepare the ribs properly, and cook them slowly to ensure they are cooked to perfection. Happy cooking!

Note: You can adjust the quantity of the ingredients based on your personal preferences and the number of people you’re serving.

What are the key ingredients needed for cooking pork spare ribs in a pan?

The key ingredients needed for cooking pork spare ribs in a pan include pork spare ribs, olive oil, salt, black pepper, brown sugar, smoked paprika, garlic powder, and your choice of barbecue sauce. You can also add other ingredients such as onions, bell peppers, and mushrooms to enhance the flavor of the dish.

It’s essential to choose the right type of pork spare ribs for this recipe. Look for ribs that are meaty and have a good balance of fat and lean meat. You can also use baby back ribs or St. Louis-style pork ribs as alternatives.

How do I prepare the pork spare ribs before cooking?

To prepare the pork spare ribs, start by removing the membrane from the back of the ribs. This will help the rub penetrate the meat and make the ribs more tender. Next, trim any excess fat from the ribs and cut them into a uniform size so that they cook evenly.

Once you’ve prepared the ribs, season them with a dry rub made from salt, black pepper, brown sugar, smoked paprika, and garlic powder. Let the ribs sit for at least 30 minutes to allow the seasonings to penetrate the meat. You can also let them sit overnight in the refrigerator for more intense flavor.

What type of pan is best for cooking pork spare ribs?

A large skillet or sauté pan with a heavy bottom is ideal for cooking pork spare ribs. The pan should be large enough to hold the ribs in a single layer, allowing them to cook evenly. A cast-iron or stainless steel pan is a good choice because it retains heat well and can be used at high temperatures.

Avoid using a non-stick pan, as it may not be able to withstand the high heat required for cooking the ribs. Also, make sure the pan is oven-safe, as you’ll need to finish cooking the ribs in the oven.

How do I cook the pork spare ribs in a pan?

To cook the pork spare ribs in a pan, heat a couple of tablespoons of olive oil over medium-high heat. Sear the ribs for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until they’re nicely browned. Remove the ribs from the pan and set them aside.

Next, add more oil to the pan if necessary, then add your choice of aromatics such as onions, bell peppers, and mushrooms. Cook the aromatics until they’re softened, then add the ribs back to the pan. Pour in your choice of barbecue sauce and bring the mixture to a simmer.

How long does it take to cook pork spare ribs in a pan?

The cooking time for pork spare ribs in a pan will depend on the size and thickness of the ribs. As a general rule, cook the ribs for 20-25 minutes in the pan, or until they’re nicely browned and caramelized. Then, finish cooking the ribs in the oven for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until they’re tender and falling off the bone.

It’s essential to monitor the ribs closely while they’re cooking, as the cooking time may vary. You can check for doneness by inserting a fork or knife into the meat. If it slides in easily, the ribs are cooked.

Can I cook pork spare ribs in a pan without finishing them in the oven?

Yes, you can cook pork spare ribs in a pan without finishing them in the oven. However, this method may not produce the same level of tenderness and fall-off-the-bone texture that you get from finishing the ribs in the oven.

To cook the ribs entirely in a pan, you’ll need to reduce the heat to low and simmer the ribs for 30-40 minutes, or until they’re tender and cooked through. You can also cover the pan with a lid to help retain moisture and promote even cooking.

How do I serve cooked pork spare ribs?

Cooked pork spare ribs can be served with a variety of sides, such as coleslaw, baked beans, grilled vegetables, or cornbread. You can also serve the ribs with additional barbecue sauce on the side, allowing each person to help themselves.

When serving the ribs, make sure to cut them into individual portions and garnish with fresh herbs such as parsley or cilantro. You can also serve the ribs with a side of crusty bread or over rice to soak up the juices.