Sweet and Sour Spareribs

📜 Collection: Gail Collection | ✍️ Attribution: Unknown | 📂 Category: Entrees Tender spareribs simmered in savory soy sauce, then glazed with a classic sweet and sour sauce. This traditional recipe delivers a perfect balance of tangy and sweet flavors.


Prep TimeCook TimeInactive / Chill TimeYield / Servings
15 mins1 hour 5 minsNone4 Servings

🔪 Key Equipment

  • Large pan
  • Small mixing bowl

Ingredients

MeasurementsIngredientsPrep / Notes
2 CupsWaterfor ribs
2 1/2 PoundsSpareribs1 inch square (or cut chicken wings)
4 TablespoonsSoy Saucedivided
1 TeaspoonSaltdivided
1 TeaspoonSugarfor ribs
1 TablespoonSherrydivided

Sauce

MeasurementsIngredientsPrep / Notes
3 TablespoonsSugarfor sauce
3 TablespoonsVinegardivided
1 TablespoonCornstarchdivided
1/2 CupWaterfor sauce

Instructions

Step 1: Simmer the Ribs

  1. In a large pan, combine 2 cups water, 2 1/2 pounds spareribs, 4 tablespoons soy sauce, and 1 teaspoon salt.

Step 2: Reduce and Glaze

  1. Bring the mixture to a boil, then turn the heat to low and simmer for 1 hour until tender.
  2. Add 1 teaspoon sugar and 1 tablespoon sherry.
  3. Turn heat to high and continue cooking until most of the liquid evaporates.
  4. Take out as much excess oil as possible from the pan.

Step 3: Add Sauce

  1. In a small bowl, blend the sauce ingredients: 3 tablespoons sugar, vinegar, cornstarch, and 1/2 cup water.
  2. Pour the sauce slowly over the spareribs.
  3. Cook for 2 minutes until the sauce thickens to a glossy finish and is bubbling hot.

💡 Make-Ahead & Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop.


Original Recipe Scan

Original Handwritten Card