Asian Ribs à la Marc - Flavourful and Tender Beef Short Ribs Recipe

 

There's nothing quite like the aroma of slow-cooked ribs filling the kitchen, especially when they're infused with the rich and exotic flavours of Asia. This recipe, Asian Ribs à la Marc, has been a family favourite for years. Inspired by my travels and love for Asian cuisine, it combines the warmth of Chinese spices with the savoury depth of beef ribs, creating a dish that's both comforting and sophisticated.

I remember the first time I made these ribs; it was a chilly weekend, and I wanted to create something special that would bring everyone together. The process of searing, sautéing, and slowly baking the ribs was almost meditative, and the result was nothing short of magical. The ribs were tender, flavourful, and beautifully glazed with a sauce that had just the right balance of sweet, salty, and aromatic spices.

This recipe is perfect for a cosy family dinner or an impressive dish for guests. It’s relatively easy to prepare, but the flavours are complex and rich, making it seem like you’ve spent hours perfecting it. So, gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to fill your home with the irresistible scent of Asian Ribs à la Marc. Bon appétit!

Asian Ribs à la Marc

Ingredients:

• 1.5-2 kg beef ribs
• 2 large onions, finely chopped
• 5 cm piece of fresh ginger, grated
• 4 Chinese garlic bulbs, minced
• 2 teaspoons Chinese 5-spice powder
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 150 ml hoisin sauce
• 1 tablespoon brown sugar
• 1 liter beef broth
• 1 cinnamon stick
• 4 star anise
• Fresh coriander, to taste
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Parchment paper

Instructions:

1. Preheat the Oven:

   • Preheat your oven to 150-160°C (300-320°F).

2. Prepare the Ribs:

   • Season the beef ribs with salt and pepper.
   • Sear the ribs on all sides in a hot grill or pan until browned. This will enhance the flavour and lock in the juices.

3. Sauté Aromatics:

   • In a large skillet, sauté the chopped onions, grated ginger, and minced garlic bulbs over medium heat until they become translucent and fragrant.

4. Add Spices:

   • Sprinkle the Chinese 5-spice powder over the sautéed aromatics and cook for about 1 minute to release the flavours.

5. Prepare the Sauce:

   • Add the soy sauce, hoisin sauce, and brown sugar to the skillet. Stir well to combine.
   • Pour in the beef broth, add the cinnamon stick, star anise, and a bit of fresh coriander. Bring the mixture to a boil.

6. Combine and Bake:

   • Place the seared ribs in a deep baking tray.
   • Pour the boiling sauce over the ribs, ensuring they are well-covered.
   • Cover the ribs with parchment paper, pressing it down to touch the sauce and poking a small hole in the Center to allow steam to escape.

7. Bake the Ribs:

   • Place the baking tray in the preheated oven.
   • Bake for approximately 3-3.5 hours, or until the ribs are tender and falling off the bone.

8. Finishing Touches:

   • Remove the tray from the oven. Skim off any excess fat and remove the cinnamon stick and star anise.
   • If desired, transfer the sauce to a saucepan and simmer until thickened to your liking.

9. Serve:

   • Plate the ribs and drizzle with the thickened sauce.
   • Garnish with additional fresh coriander if desired.
   • Serve hot and enjoy your Asian Ribs à la Marc!

Conclusion:

Asian Ribs à la Marc are a true testament to the beauty of combining simple ingredients with rich, aromatic flavours. Whether you’re making them for a family dinner or a special gathering, these ribs are sure to impress. Enjoy the tender, flavourful results and make unforgettable memories around the dinner table. Happy cooking!