There’s something incredibly satisfying about the gentle steam rising from a dish of tender, flavor-packed ribs. I first encountered these Dim Sum Steamed Spare Ribs with Black Beans at a bustling weekend market, where the savory aroma mixed with laughter and chatter captivated my senses. Those enticing flavors lingered in my mind as I realized I had to bring this experience to my own kitchen.
This recipe transforms humble pork ribs into a melt-in-your-mouth delight, perfect for a weekend gathering or a cozy weeknight dinner. With a minimal timeframe and simple ingredients, you can infuse your meal with authentic Asian flavors that make anyone feel like a culinary expert. The combination of marinated pork and the umami of fermented black beans will transport you straight to those vibrant dim sum restaurants.
If you’re bored of the same old fast food routine, let’s dive into making these mouthwatering steamed ribs. You won’t just fill your stomach; you’ll become the star of your next potluck or family dinner. Ready to impress? Let’s get cooking!
Why are Dim Sum Steamed Spare Ribs with Black Beans a must-try?
Tender, Flavor-Packed Ribs: These ribs are infused with bold flavors from marinating overnight, ensuring a juicy, tender bite.
Authentic Experience: Enjoy the vibrant tastes of traditional dim sum right in your own home, making you feel like a culinary pro.
Simple Ingredients: With just a handful of accessible ingredients, cooking elevated dishes becomes hassle-free, perfect for busy weeknights.
Quick Cooking Time: In only 10 minutes, you’ll serve a dish that fits perfectly into your schedule yet impresses everyone at the table.
Crowd-Pleaser: This recipe is sure to delight guests at potlucks and family dinners, making you the talk of the gathering.
Dim Sum Steamed Spare Ribs Ingredients
For the Ribs
• Pork Ribs – 1 pound, cut into 1-inch pieces for tender bites that soak up flavors beautifully.
• Sugar – 2 teaspoons to balance the savory notes, enhancing the overall taste profile.
• Salt – 1 1/2 teaspoons to season the meat thoroughly, ensuring robust flavor.
• Shaoxing Wine – 1 tablespoon adds a complexity that’s characteristic in authentic dishes.
• Sesame Oil – 1 teaspoon for a subtle nuttiness that elevates each bite.
• Ground White Pepper – 1/8 teaspoon to bring a gentle heat that’s quintessential in Asian cuisine.
For the Coating
• Cornstarch – 2 tablespoons to create a velvety texture that locks in moisture during steaming.
• Water – 1 tablespoon helps to bind the cornstarch, ensuring an even coating for the ribs.
For the Topping
• Long Hot Green Peppers – 2 tablespoons, roughly chopped and de-seeded to add a mild, fresh heat.
• Long Hot Red Peppers – 2 tablespoons, roughly chopped and de-seeded for a pop of color and flavor.
• Chinese Fermented Black Beans – 1 tablespoon, rinsed thoroughly to deliver a rich, umami depth that makes these Dim Sum Steamed Spare Ribs with Black Beans unforgettable.
How to Make Dim Sum Steamed Spare Ribs with Black Beans
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Marinate the Ribs: In a bowl, combine the cut pork ribs, sugar, salt, Shaoxing wine, sesame oil, and ground white pepper. Mix until every piece is coated. Cover and let it chill in the fridge overnight for the best flavor, or at least for 30 minutes if you’re short on time.
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Prepare the Coating: Add the cornstarch and water to the marinated ribs. Mix thoroughly, ensuring the mixture is well-coordinated without excess liquid. This will help achieve that delightful texture during steaming.
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Layer the Ribs: Transfer the prepared ribs onto a heatproof plate that fits snugly in your steamer. Sprinkle the chopped green and red peppers along with the fermented black beans on top to add beautiful colors and flavors.
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Set Up Your Steamer: In a metal steamer or a wok with a steaming rack, bring some water to a gentle simmer. Make sure it’s ready for the next step, creating that perfect steaming environment.
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Steam the Ribs: Carefully place the plate(s) into the steamer, cover with a lid, and steam for 10 minutes. The ribs should turn opaque and be cooked through, presenting a beautiful feast.
Optional: Serve with a sprinkle of sesame seeds for an added crunch and visual appeal.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
What to Serve with Dim Sum Steamed Spare Ribs with Black Beans?
Experience the joy of curating a well-rounded meal that complements your flavorful steamed ribs.
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Steamed Jasmine Rice: This gentle and fragrant rice absorbs the delicious juices from the ribs, creating an irresistible harmony of flavors. Each fluffy grain becomes a delightful canvas for the savory notes of the dish.
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Stir-Fried Bok Choy: Crisp, fresh bok choy adds a refreshing crunch and vibrant color to your meal. The slight bitterness contrasts beautifully with the richness of the pork, balancing the overall taste.
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Chili Garlic Sauce: A drizzle of this spicy sauce adds an extra punch for those preferring a fiery kick. The garlicky aroma and heat will elevate your dining experience and leave your taste buds dancing.
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Pickled Vegetables: A side of pickled carrots and daikon radish provides a tangy contrast that brightens the palate. Their crisp texture and sharpness perfectly offset the rich pork flavor.
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Chinese Dumplings: Pairing your ribs with a side of steamed dumplings enriches the meal’s texture and delivers more traditional dim sum vibes. Filled with savory ingredients, they make every bite a delightful surprise.
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Citrusy Sparkling Water: Serve with a glass of citrus-flavored sparkling water for a refreshing sip that cleanses the palate. The fizz and zesty notes offer a light-hearted counterpoint to the dish’s intensity.
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Sweet Coconut Tapioca Pudding: Indulge in this creamy dessert, delicate yet satisfying, to conclude your meal. Its sweetness harmonizes with the savory bites, leaving a lovely lasting impression.
With these thoughtful pairings, you’ll create a truly memorable dining experience that brings the spirit of a dim sum gathering right to your table.
Dim Sum Steamed Spare Ribs Variations
Feel free to get creative and make this dish your own with these delightful twists that embrace a variety of flavors and ingredients!
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Gluten-Free: Substitute Shaoxing wine with gluten-free rice vinegar for the same subtle tang without the gluten.
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Spicy Kick: Add 1 teaspoon of chili flakes to the marinated ribs for an extra heat burst that will thrill your taste buds.
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Herbal Boost: Incorporate fresh cilantro or sliced green onions on top after steaming for a fresh burst of flavor and color.
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Vegetarian Option: Swap pork ribs with firm tofu, pressing it to remove excess moisture, creating a satisfying alternative that soaks up the marinade.
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Citrus Zest: For a refreshing twist, mix in a teaspoon of grated ginger or lime zest with the marinade, adding a bright, zesty layer to the flavor profile.
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Smoky Flavor: Use smoked salt in place of regular salt to introduce a delightful smokiness that complements the natural flavors of the ribs.
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Tangy Addition: Include 1 tablespoon of hoisin sauce in the marinade for a sweet and savory flavor combination that takes the dish to new heights.
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Texture Twist: For a crunchy contrast, sprinkle some toasted sesame seeds over the top just before serving, adding both flavor and texture that enhances every bite.
Expert Tips for Dim Sum Steamed Spare Ribs
• Marinate Longer: The longer you marinate the pork ribs, the more flavorful they become. Aim for overnight marination to unlock maximum flavor!
• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh peppers and high-quality fermented black beans can significantly enhance the taste of your dim sum steamed spare ribs, making every bite memorable.
• Check Steamer Water Level: Ensure that the water in your steamer is at the right level. Too little water can lead to uneven cooking, while too much may cause a mess.
• Don’t Overcrowd: If you’re making a large batch, steam the ribs in separate batches to allow for even cooking and proper flavor absorption.
• Rest Before Serving: Let the ribs rest for a couple of minutes after steaming. This will help the juices redistribute for a more tender bite.
• Serve With Dipping Sauce: Elevate your dish experience by serving these dim sum steamed spare ribs with a soy or chili-garlic dipping sauce for an added kick!
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 the flavors to deepen for a deliciously tender bite. After marinating, mix in the cornstarch and water, then cover and refrigerate the ribs if you’re not steaming them right away—this will maintain their quality and ensure they’re just as flavorful later. When you’re ready to serve, simply layer the ribs with peppers and fermented black beans on a heatproof plate, steam for 10 minutes, and enjoy a delightful meal that feels like gourmet dining with minimal effort!
How to Store and Freeze Dim Sum Steamed Spare Ribs with Black Beans
Fridge: Store leftover ribs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days to maintain their delicious flavors and tenderness.
Freezer: To freeze, wrap the steamed ribs tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can be stored for up to 3 months without losing taste.
Reheating: When ready to enjoy, thaw the ribs in the fridge overnight and steam again for about 5–7 minutes until heated through.
Room Temperature: Avoid leaving the cooked ribs out for more than 2 hours to maintain safety and flavor quality.
Dim Sum Steamed Spare Ribs with Black Beans Recipe FAQs
What kind of pork ribs should I use?
Absolutely! For this recipe, I recommend using meaty pork ribs such as baby back ribs or spare ribs, cut into 1-inch pieces. This ensures they cook evenly and absorb all those delightful flavors during marination and steaming.
How long can I store the leftovers?
You can store any leftover Dim Sum Steamed Spare Ribs with Black Beans in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just make sure to let them cool completely before sealing, as this helps prevent condensation and maintains their delicious texture.
Can I freeze the steamed ribs?
Absolutely! To freeze, simply wrap the steamed ribs tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. They’ll stay fresh for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw them in the fridge overnight and then steam for about 5–7 minutes until heated through.
How do I prevent the ribs from being tough?
To ensure your ribs are melt-in-your-mouth tender, marinating them overnight is key. This not only enhances flavor but also helps to break down some of the fibers in the meat. Additionally, don’t overcrowd your steamer; this allows each rib to steam evenly. If cooking a larger batch, steam them in separate batches for optimal results.
Are fermented black beans safe for everyone?
While delicious, Chinese fermented black beans may not be suitable for individuals with soy allergies, so it’s good to check for any dietary restrictions. If you want a substitute, you could use finely chopped olives for a similar umami effect, though the flavor will differ a bit.
How do I know when the ribs are fully cooked?
Great question! When steaming, the ribs should turn opaque and tender after about 10 minutes. For an extra measure, ensure they reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C). If you have any concerns, a quick taste test can confirm they’re deliciously tender and fully cooked!
Savory Dim Sum Steamed Spare Ribs with Black Beans Delight
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a bowl, combine the cut pork ribs, sugar, salt, Shaoxing wine, sesame oil, and ground white pepper. Mix until every piece is coated. Cover and let it chill in the fridge overnight or at least for 30 minutes.
- Add the cornstarch and water to the marinated ribs. Mix thoroughly, ensuring the mixture is well-coordinated without excess liquid.
- Transfer the prepared ribs onto a heatproof plate that fits snugly in your steamer. Sprinkle the chopped green and red peppers along with the fermented black beans on top.
- In a metal steamer or a wok with a steaming rack, bring some water to a gentle simmer.
- Carefully place the plate(s) into the steamer, cover with a lid, and steam for 10 minutes.