Pork Ribs with Black Bean Sauce (Authentic Dim Sum Recipe)
Pork Ribs with Black Bean Sauce is a classic Hong Kong dim sum dish featuring tender, bite-sized pork ribs steamed in a rich and savory garlic black bean sauce. This dish is known for its bold umami flavor, juicy texture, and simple yet satisfying preparation.
Menu: Pork Ribs with Black Bean Sauce
Prep Time, Cook Time, Servings
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 25–30 minutes
- Total Time: 45–50 minutes
- Servings: 3–4 servings
Ingredients
For the Pork Ribs
- 500 grams pork spare ribs, chopped into small pieces
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon white pepper
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
For the Black Bean Sauce
- 2 tablespoons fermented black beans, rinsed and lightly mashed
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon oyster sauce
- 1 teaspoon soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 1 tablespoon Shaoxing wine (optional)
- 1/2 cup water or chicken stock
- 1 small chili, sliced (optional)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Pork Ribs
In a bowl, combine pork ribs with cornstarch, sugar, salt, white pepper, soy sauce, and sesame oil. Mix well and marinate for at least 20 minutes.
Step 2: Prepare the Sauce
In a small bowl, mix fermented black beans, garlic, oyster sauce, soy sauce, sugar, Shaoxing wine, and water.
Step 3: Combine
Add the prepared sauce to the marinated ribs and mix thoroughly to coat evenly.
Step 4: Prepare the Steamer
Transfer the ribs to a heatproof dish and spread evenly. Place in a bamboo or metal steamer.
Step 5: Steam the Ribs
Steam over high heat for 25–30 minutes until the ribs are tender and fully cooked.
Step 6: Garnish
Sprinkle sliced chili or green onions on top for added flavor and color.
Step 7: Serve
Serve hot as part of a dim sum spread or with steamed rice.
Tips for Perfect Pork Ribs with Black Bean Sauce
- Use small, evenly cut ribs for faster and even cooking.
- Marinate long enough for deeper flavor.
- Do not add too much salt—black beans are naturally salty.
- Steam on high heat to keep ribs juicy.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Skipping marination – results in bland ribs.
- Oversteaming – can make meat too soft or mushy.
- Using large rib pieces – uneven cooking.
- Too much sauce – may overpower the dish.
Extra Info / Insights
This dish is a dim sum staple often served in small portions but packed with flavor. The fermented black beans, also known as douchi, provide a deep umami taste that pairs perfectly with tender pork ribs. It is commonly enjoyed alongside rice or other dim sum favorites.
Nutrition Information (Approximate per serving)
- Calories: 320 kcal
- Protein: 20g
- Carbohydrates: 6g
- Fat: 24g
- Sodium: 650mg
FAQ
- Can I use boneless pork? – Yes, but traditional recipe uses ribs.
- What are fermented black beans? – Salted, fermented soybeans used in Chinese cooking.
- Can I cook without a steamer? – Use a heatproof dish over a pot with a rack.
- Can I make it spicy? – Add more chili or chili paste.
- How to store leftovers? – Refrigerate and reheat by steaming.
Internal Links
Related recipes: Chicken Feet, Char Siu Bao
Conclusion
This Pork Ribs with Black Bean Sauce Recipe delivers bold, savory flavors with tender, juicy meat-perfect for any dim sum lover looking to recreate authentic Hong Kong cuisine at home.
