Frequently Asked Questions
What are Savory Glazed Spareribs?
Savory Glazed Spareribs are a flavorful appetizer or main dish featuring tender pork ribs coated in a sweet and savory glaze made from plum jelly, soy sauce, and aromatic spices.
What type of meat is used for this recipe?
The recipe calls for 1.5 pounds of spareribs, specifically cut into 2- to 2.5-inch long pieces.
How should I ask my butcher to prepare the ribs?
Ask your butcher to cut the sparerib section lengthwise into individual ribs, and then crosswise through the bone into 2- to 2 1/2-inch long pieces.
What ingredients are in the savory glaze?
The glaze consists of a 10-ounce jar of plum jelly, 1/3 cup of soy sauce, 1/4 cup of dark corn syrup, 3 tablespoons of minced onions, 2 teaspoons of ground ginger, and 2 minced garlic cloves.
How do I prepare the glaze?
Combine the jelly, soy sauce, syrup, onions, ginger, and garlic in a saucepan and heat over medium heat, stirring until the jelly melts and the mixture reaches a gentle boil.
How long should the ribs marinate?
The ribs should marinate in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours, though overnight is preferred for maximum flavor infusion.
What temperature should the oven be set to?
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) before baking the ribs.
What size baking pan is needed?
A 13x9x2-inch baking pan is recommended for this recipe.
Should the baking pan be greased?
Yes, grease the baking pan lightly with cooking spray or oil to prevent sticking.
How long do the ribs need to bake?
The ribs should be baked uncovered for a total of 1 hour.
Do I need to turn the ribs while they cook?
Yes, turn the ribs halfway through the 1-hour baking time to ensure even cooking and caramelization.
How do I know when the ribs are done?
The ribs are done when they are tender and the glaze has become bubbly and slightly thickened.
Can I use light corn syrup instead of dark?
The recipe specifies dark corn syrup for its robust flavor, but light corn syrup can be used as a substitute if necessary.
What is the flavor profile of this dish?
These ribs have a sweet and savory flavor profile, combining the fruitiness of plum jelly with the saltiness of soy sauce and aromatics like garlic and ginger.
Is this recipe considered an appetizer?
Yes, it is categorized as an appetizer and is perfect for parties, finger food spreads, or as a centerpiece for gatherings.
Can I use fresh ginger instead of ground ginger?
Yes, you can substitute fresh ginger, but since it is more potent than ground ginger, you may want to adjust the quantity to your taste.
What should I serve with these ribs?
They pair well with fresh vegetables, a side of dipping sauce, or as part of a larger barbecue spread.
How should the ribs be arranged in the pan?
Arrange the marinated ribs in a single layer in the baking pan to ensure they cook evenly.
Do I use the leftover marinade?
Yes, pour any remaining glaze from the bowl or bag over the top of the ribs before placing them in the oven.
Is there any preparation required for the garlic?
The two garlic cloves should be minced before being added to the glaze mixture.
Can I make this dish for a large crowd?
Absolutely, these ribs are described as a crowd-pleaser and are ideal for parties and special family dinners.
Should I let the ribs cool before serving?
It is recommended to allow the ribs to cool for a few minutes after removing them from the oven before serving.
Is the glaze boiled before marinating?
Yes, the glaze ingredients are brought to a gentle boil and then cooled slightly before being poured over the raw ribs.
What kind of onions are used?
The recipe calls for 3 tablespoons of minced onions.
Is this a barbecue recipe?
While it uses a glaze common in barbecue, these ribs are specifically prepared by baking them in the oven.
Can I use a different type of jelly?
While plum jelly provides the signature flavor, you could experiment with apricot or grape jelly for a different fruit profile.
Are these ribs spicy?
No, this recipe focuses on sweet and savory flavors rather than heat.
Do I need to cover the pan with foil?
No, the ribs should be baked uncovered to allow the glaze to caramelize and thicken.
How many spareribs does 1.5 lbs typically include?
The count depends on the size of the ribs, but once cut into 2-2.5 inch pieces, it provides a substantial amount for an appetizer serving.
What makes this a 'comfort food'?
The combination of tender pork, rich sweet glaze, and warm spices like ginger and garlic makes it a satisfying and comforting dish.