How To Cut Spare Ribs Chinese Style
Chinese cuisine is known for its flavorful and tender spare ribs. With the right cutting technique, you can easily prepare this mouthwatering dish at home. In this article, we will guide you through the process of cutting spare ribs Chinese style, ensuring that you achieve the perfect cuts for an authentic Chinese dining experience.
What You’ll Need
- A rack of spare ribs
- A sharp chef’s knife
- Cutting board
- Plastic wrap or parchment paper
Step-by-Step Guide
Step 1: Prepare the Spare Ribs
Start by cleaning the spare ribs under cold running water. Pat them dry with a clean paper towel. Ensure all excess moisture is removed for better grip and handling during the cutting process.
Step 2: Remove the Membrane
To make the spare ribs more tender and allow for better absorption of flavors, it’s important to remove the tough membrane on the bone side. Use a paper towel to firmly grip a corner of the membrane and peel it off the entire rack of ribs.
Step 3: Decide on the Cuts
Chinese-style spare ribs can be cut into various sizes, depending on your preference. You can choose between three popular options:
- St. Louis Cut: This cut removes the tips of the ribs and square off the rack for a more consistent shape, making it easier to handle and cook.
- English Cut: In this method, the rack is horizontally cut between each bone, resulting in shorter individual ribs.
- Chinese Cut: This cut involves vertically slicing the rack parallel to the bones, creating riblets that are perfect for stir-frying or braising.
Step 4: Cut the Spare Ribs
For St. Louis Cut:
- Place the rack bone side up on the cutting board.
- Locate the end of the rack where the bones curve inwards to form a concave shape.
- Using a sharp chef’s knife, cut straight through the rack just above this curve to remove the rib tips.
- Next, cut straight through the middle of the rack to create two evenly-sized halves.
- Finally, turn each half flesh side up and cut between the bones to separate them into individual ribs.
For English Cut:
- Place the rack bone side up on the cutting board.
- Using a sharp chef’s knife, cut straight through the rack between each bone to separate them into shorter individual ribs.
For Chinese Cut:
- Place the rack bone side up on the cutting board.
- Using a sharp chef’s knife, make vertical cuts parallel to the bones, creating riblets of your desired thickness.
After making your desired cuts, you can marinate, season, and cook the spare ribs according to your favorite Chinese recipes.
Conclusion
Learning how to cut spare ribs Chinese style allows you to elevate your culinary skills and enjoy the flavors of traditional Chinese cooking. With our step-by-step guide, you can confidently prepare spare ribs that are tender, flavorful, and truly authentic. So, grab your chef’s knife and get ready to impress your family and friends with this delicious Chinese delicacy!
For those keen on trying their hand at cutting spare ribs Chinese style, there are several recipes that will bring out the best in your newfound skills. The rich flavors of Honey Garlic Spare Ribs and the tangy zest of Sweet and Sour Spare Ribs are perfect for showcasing the precise cuts you'll master. For a smoky twist, Chinese BBQ Spare Ribs will be a hit, while Spare Ribs in Hoisin Sauce offers a savory depth that's hard to resist. If you enjoy a bit of spice, Sichuan Peppercorn Spare Ribs and Spare Ribs with Garlic and Chilli will not disappoint. Finally, Spare Ribs with Five Spice Powder provides a fragrant and aromatic experience that highlights the delicate balance of Chinese spices. Give these recipes a try; each one lets you appreciate the art of cutting and cooking spare ribs in a unique way.
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