Braised Pork Ribs with Bitter Melon and Fermented Black Beans

Ingredients

Instructions

1. 1

   Blanch the pork ribs in boiling water for 3-5 minutes. Drain and set aside.

2. 2

   Place bitter melon slices in a bowl, add a pinch of salt, and gently squeeze to remove some bitterness. Rinse and drain.

3. 3

   Heat cooking oil in a wok over medium heat. Add minced garlic, ginger slices, and mashed fermented black beans. Sauté until fragrant.

4. 4

   Add blanched pork ribs to the wok and stir-fry until lightly browned.

5. 5

   Pour in Shaoxing wine to deglaze the wok. Add light soy sauce, dark soy sauce, oyster sauce, and sugar. Stir well to coat the ribs.

6. 6

   Add water or chicken stock to cover the ribs. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 40 minutes until the ribs are tender.

7. 7

   Add the prepared bitter melon slices to the pot. Continue to simmer for another 10-15 minutes until the bitter melon is tender.

8. 8

   In a small bowl, mix cornstarch with a tablespoon of water to create a slurry. Stir into the braising liquid until slightly thickened.

9. 9

   Transfer the braised pork ribs and bitter melon to a serving dish. Garnish with sliced red chili if desired. Serve hot with rice.