There’s a certain joy in gathering friends and family around a table filled with delicious bites, and nothing captures that spirit quite like Dim Sum Steamed Spare Ribs with Black Beans. As I began experimenting with this traditional dish, I was surprised by how easily I could recreate the authentic flavors of Chinatown right in my own kitchen. The moment the savory aroma fills your home, you’ll understand the allure of this beloved dim sum staple.
Picture succulent ribs marinated to perfection, layered with vibrant peppers, and infused with the unique depth of fermented black beans. Not only is the dish incredibly satisfying to make, but it also invites customization—swap in tofu for a vegetarian option or elevate the heat with your favorite peppers. Whether you’re hosting a cozy dinner or simply craving a flavorful dish, these steamed spare ribs are sure to impress while keeping you far from the fast-food drive-thru. Let’s dive into this uncomplicated yet mouthwatering recipe that promises a taste of tradition with every tender bite!
Why will you love Dim Sum Steamed Spare Ribs with Black Beans?
Simplicity is Key: This recipe is easy to follow, allowing even novice cooks to bring authentic flavors to their table without breaking a sweat.
Flavor Explosion: The marriage of black beans, peppers, and succulent pork creates a savory, mouthwatering experience.
Customization Friendly: Adjust ingredients effortlessly; substitute pork with chicken or tofu to suit dietary preferences.
Perfect for Gatherings: Impress friends and family with a restaurant-quality dish that fuels conversation and connection over great food.
Quick to Make: In just under 30 minutes of prep and 10 minutes of steaming, you can serve an unforgettable meal that keeps you out of the drive-thru!
Dim Sum Steamed Spare Ribs Ingredients
For the Ribs
- Pork Ribs – Essential for a tender and flavorful base; ask your butcher for pre-cut options for convenience.
- Sugar – A touch of sweetness to balance the savory richness in the dish.
- Salt – Enhances the natural flavor of the ribs, making each bite more delicious.
- Shaoxing Wine – A key ingredient that adds depth; can be substituted with dry sherry if needed.
- Sesame Oil – Provides a nutty aroma and flavor; using toasted sesame oil deepens the taste.
- Ground White Pepper – Delivers a subtle heat that perfectly complements the dish.
For the Coating
- Cornstarch – Helps achieve that tender texture when steaming; ensures the meat is well-coated.
- Water – Combines with cornstarch to create a smooth mixture, essential for coating the ribs.
For the Peppers
- Long Hot Green Peppers – Adds a mild spiciness; roughly chopped to maximize flavor distribution.
- Long Hot Red Peppers – Contributes color and a bit of heat, making the dish visually appealing and zesty.
For the Flavor
- Chinese Fermented Black Beans – The star ingredient offering traditional flavor; make sure to rinse them to reduce saltiness.
With the delightful blend of these Dim Sum Steamed Spare Ribs with Black Beans ingredients, you’re well on your way to creating a dish that will have everyone asking for seconds!
How to Make Dim Sum Steamed Spare Ribs with Black Beans
-
Marinate the Ribs: In a bowl, mix the pork ribs with sugar, salt, Shaoxing wine, sesame oil, and white pepper. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or ideally overnight, to let the flavors meld beautifully.
-
Prepare the Coating: Combine the marinated ribs with cornstarch and water, ensuring a thick mixture. This coating will help the ribs achieve that tender texture when steaming.
-
Plate the Ribs: Transfer the ribs to a heatproof plate, layering them with the chopped green and red peppers, along with the rinsed fermented black beans on top. This adds both flavor and a pop of color.
-
Steam: Place the plate in a steamer or a wok with a steaming rack over simmering water. Cover and steam for about 10 minutes, or until the ribs are tender and opaque. Adjust the time if you prefer them more or less tender.
-
Serve: Delight in your homemade dim sum by serving the ribs as is, or over a bed of rice for a complete meal that brings everyone together.
Optional: Garnish with freshly chopped cilantro for an added touch of freshness.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Make Ahead Options
These Dim Sum Steamed Spare Ribs with Black Beans are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can marinate the pork ribs up to 24 hours in advance, allowing all those delicious flavors to meld beautifully. Simply combine the ribs with sugar, salt, Shaoxing wine, sesame oil, and white pepper in a bowl, cover, and refrigerate. Additionally, you can prepare the rib coating (cornstarch and water) and have it ready to mix just before cooking. When you’re ready to serve, layer the ribs with peppers and fermented black beans on a plate, steam for about 10 minutes, and enjoy a home-cooked meal that tastes just as delicious as it would from your favorite dim sum restaurant—all while saving you valuable cooking time during busy weeknights!
What to Serve with Dim Sum Steamed Spare Ribs with Black Beans?
Set the stage for a delightful meal that transports your taste buds to a bustling dim sum restaurant in the heart of Chinatown.
-
Jasmine Rice: A classic pairing, fluffy jasmine rice soaks up the rich black bean sauce, balancing the savory ribs beautifully.
-
Garlic Bok Choy: This quick sauté of tender bok choy with garlic adds a crisp freshness that brightens the meal, enhancing each bite.
-
Chinese Scallion Pancakes: These crispy, savory pancakes are perfect for soaking up the rich flavors from the ribs, making every mouthful deliciously satisfying.
-
Sweet and Sour Cucumber Salad: The crunch and refreshing sweetness of this salad contrasts wonderfully with the savory ribs, providing a lively bite.
-
Chili Oil: Drizzle a bit of homemade or store-bought chili oil over the ribs for an extra kick that elevates the flavor profile and excites the palate.
-
Soy Sauce Dipping Sauce: A simple blend of soy sauce, vinegar, and sesame oil serves as a tangy dip, offering an additional layer of flavor for discerning tastes.
-
Bubble Tea: A fun, sweet beverage that complements the savory dinner, bubble tea’s unique texture and diverse flavors will delight your guests.
-
Sesame Balls: These chewy, sweet treats offer a delightful finish, featuring a crispy exterior and sweet filling, rounding out your meal beautifully.
Expert Tips for Dim Sum Steamed Spare Ribs
-
Marination Matters: The longer you marinate the ribs, the deeper the flavors will penetrate. Aim for at least 30 minutes, but overnight is best for maximum taste.
-
Rinse the Beans: Always rinse the Chinese fermented black beans well to reduce their saltiness. This helps maintain the dish’s rich flavor without overwhelming it.
-
Choose the Right Peppers: Use long hot red and green peppers for a balanced heat profile. Adjust the quantity based on your spice preference to avoid overpowering the dish.
-
Steaming Precision: For perfectly tender Dim Sum Steamed Spare Ribs with Black Beans, keep an eye on the steaming time. Adjust it to achieve your desired level of tenderness; too little may leave them tough, too much can make them mushy.
-
Layer Wisely: When plating the ribs, layer the peppers and black beans on top for enhanced flavor infusion, ensuring each bite is as delicious as the last.
-
Don’t Skip the Cornstarch: This ingredient is crucial for achieving a tender texture. Ensure it’s evenly mixed into the marinated ribs for best results.
How to Store and Freeze Dim Sum Steamed Spare Ribs with Black Beans
Fridge: Store any leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This keeps the ribs juicy and minimizes any flavor loss.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the steamed ribs in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. Ensure they are cooled completely before freezing to preserve texture.
Reheating: When ready to enjoy, reheat directly from frozen or thaw in the fridge overnight. Steam or microwave until heated through, making sure the inside reaches a safe temperature.
Serving Tips: Enjoy your leftover Dim Sum Steamed Spare Ribs with Black Beans as is, or pair with fresh veggies or rice to create a quick meal that feels just as indulgent as the first time!
Dim Sum Steamed Spare Ribs Variations
Customize your dish to create a unique experience bursting with flavors and textures!
-
Chicken Thighs: Substitute pork ribs with chicken thighs for a lighter option that’s still juicy and delicious.
Swap out the protein to suit your taste; chicken thighs tend to become wonderfully tender when steamed, just like the ribs. -
Tofu: Use firm tofu for a vegetarian delight that soaks up all the marinade flavors beautifully.
Cut the tofu into cubes and press it to remove excess moisture, making it ready to absorb the tasty goodness of the dish. -
Sweet Peppers: Experiment with different colorful sweet peppers for a milder alternative that adds a pop of color.
Using yellow and orange peppers can brighten the dish while offering a sweet crunch that contrasts nicely with the savory ribs. -
Spicy Kick: Add chopped fresh chili peppers if you want to amp up the heat level.
Spicy options like jalapeños or Thai bird chilies will add warmth and complexity, balancing the dish’s umami with a fiery punch. -
Extra Aroma: Incorporate ginger or garlic into the marinade for an added depth of flavor.
Both ingredients introduce aromatic profiles that enhance the overall taste, creating a fragrant dish that invites second helpings. -
Vegetable Medley: Introduce a mix of steamed vegetables such as bok choy or snow peas for a nutritious twist.
These veggies not only add texture but also complement the savory flavors, making each bite a delightfully fresh experience. -
Oyster Sauce: Drizzle a bit of oyster sauce over the ribs before serving for a sweet and salty boost.
This silky sauce will elevate the dish and lend a glossy finish that will impress your family and guests alike! -
Citrus Zest: Top the finished dish with a hint of orange or lemon zest for a refreshing brightness.
A little citrus elevates the flavor profile, balancing the richness of the ribs with a zesty zing that brightens every bite.
Dim Sum Steamed Spare Ribs with Black Beans Recipe FAQs
How can I choose the best pork ribs for this recipe?
Absolutely! Look for pork ribs that are pink or red in color, with a nice amount of marbling for tenderness. Avoid ribs that have dark spots or an off smell. For convenience, ask your butcher for pre-cut options to save time and ensure even cooking.
How should I store leftovers?
Leftovers should be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When ready to reheat, pop them in the steamer or microwave until heated through. This helps maintain their juicy texture and flavor!
Can I freeze Dim Sum Steamed Spare Ribs with Black Beans?
Yes! To freeze, allow the ribs to cool completely before transferring them to a freezer-safe bag. They’ll keep well for up to 3 months. Remember to label the bag with the date for your reference.
What if my ribs turn out tough after steaming?
Very! If your ribs aren’t tender enough, it could be due to insufficient marination or steaming time. Make sure to marinate for at least 30 minutes, but ideally overnight for maximum flavor. If they still need more tenderness, try increasing the steaming time by a few minutes and checking at intervals.
Are there any dietary considerations I should be aware of?
Absolutely! This recipe is not gluten-free due to the use of Shaoxing wine and fermented black beans, which may contain gluten. If serving to individuals with allergies, double-check all ingredients. You can also substitute Shaoxing wine with dry sherry, which is typically gluten-free.
Can I use different types of meat or vegetarian options?
Yes! Feel free to experiment by using chicken thighs or tofu if you’re looking for a lighter option. Adjust the marination time for different proteins; chicken will need less time, while tofu will absorb flavors beautifully with the same recipe!
Master Delicious Dim Sum Steamed Spare Ribs with Black Beans
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Marinate the Ribs: In a bowl, mix the pork ribs with sugar, salt, Shaoxing wine, sesame oil, and white pepper. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or ideally overnight, to let the flavors meld beautifully.
- Prepare the Coating: Combine the marinated ribs with cornstarch and water, ensuring a thick mixture.
- Plate the Ribs: Transfer the ribs to a heatproof plate, layering them with the chopped green and red peppers, along with the rinsed fermented black beans on top.
- Steam: Place the plate in a steamer or a wok with a steaming rack over simmering water. Cover and steam for about 10 minutes, until the ribs are tender and opaque.
- Serve: Serve the ribs as is, or over a bed of rice.