Spare Ribs with Ketchup and Pineapple
User Reviews
4
-
Prep Time
15 mins
-
Cook Time
1 hr
-
Marinate
30 mins
-
Total Time
1 hr 45 mins
-
Servings
4 Servings
-
Calories
642 kcal
-
Course
Main Course
-
Cuisine
Filipino
Spare Ribs with Ketchup and Pineapple
Description
Spare Ribs with Ketchup and Pineapple uses pork spareribs cut into manageable pieces and marinated briefly in a blend of pineapple juice from canned fruit, banana ketchup, soy sauce, and freshly pressed ginger juice. The marinade imparts sweetness and savory umami notes while also tenderizing the meat without overpowering it. After marinating, the ribs are browned with onion and garlic to build flavor, then simmered slowly in reserved marinade mixed with water until fork-tender and the sauce thickens.
The cooked dish finishes with pineapple chunks added for a few minutes to warm through without losing texture. This creates a harmony between the savory meat and the fruity sweetness of pineapple and ketchup with a subtle ginger undertone and aromatic garlic. The texture combines tender meat, softened onions, and juicy fruit bites enhanced by a glossy sauce coating.
This recipe suits serving hot as a main dish accompanied by plain rice to balance the tangy, sweet flavors. It is practical for home cooks wanting to explore a slightly different pork rib preparation using easily accessible ingredients like banana ketchup and canned pineapple. The marinating and slow simmering process ensures soft, flavorful meat while the pineapple juice tenderizes without making the protein mushy.
Avoid marinating too long to prevent the meat texture from becoming affected by pineapple’s acidity. Choose pineapple canned in juice rather than syrup for best taste balance. The dish stores well for reheating and benefits from a gentle simmer to allow flavors to meld thoroughly.
Ingredients
- 2 pounds pork spareribs cut into 2-inch cubes
- salt to taste
- black pepper to taste
- 1 thumb-size ginger fresh, peeled and grated
- 1 can pineapple chunks 20 ounces, drained, juice reserved
- 1 cup pineapple juice from the canned pineapples
- ¼ cup soy sauce
- ½ cup banana ketchup
- 1 tablespoon canola oil
- 1 onion peeled and chopped
- 2 cloves garlic peeled and minced
- 1 cup water
Instructions
- Season spare ribs with salt and pepper to taste.
- Extract juice from grated ginger and discard the pressed ginger.
- In a large bowl, combine pineapple juice (reserved from the canned pineapples), soy sauce, banana ketchup, and ginger juice.
- Add spare ribs and massage the marinade into the meat. Marinate in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes. Drain meat well and reserve liquid.
- In a pot over medium heat, heat oil. Add onions and garlic and cook until softened.
- Add spareribs and cook, turning as needed, until lightly browned.
- Add reserved marinade and water and bring to a boil. Lower heat, cover and cook for about 40 to 50 minutes or until meat is fork-tender and the sauce is reduced.
- Add pineapple chunks and cook for about 2 to 3 minutes or until heated through. Serve hot.
Notes
- Marinate the pork ribs for about 30 minutes to retain a good texture without the pineapple's acid breaking down the meat excessively.
- Use pineapple chunks packed in juice, not heavy syrup, to avoid overly sweet flavors and ensure the marinade's balance.
- Drain the ribs well after marinating before browning to promote even cooking and browning.
Nutrition Information
Show DetailsNutrition Facts
Serving: 4Servings
Amount Per Serving
Calories 642 kcal
% Daily Value*
| Calories | 642kcal | 32% |
| Carbohydrates | 41g | 14% |
| Protein | 28g | 56% |
| Fat | 41g | 63% |
| Saturated Fat | 12g | 60% |
| Cholesterol | 127mg | 42% |
| Sodium | 1218mg | 51% |
| Potassium | 802mg | 17% |
| Fiber | 3g | 12% |
| Sugar | 34g | 68% |
| Vitamin A | 225IU | 5% |
| Vitamin C | 23mg | 26% |
| Calcium | 71mg | 7% |
| Iron | 3mg | 17% |
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet.