Five-Spice Plum Sticky Short Ribs

Ingredients

• beef short ribs3 lb
• salt2 tsp
• black pepper1 tsp
• neutral oil1 tbsp
• onion, sliced1 large
• garlic cloves, smashed5
• ginger, sliced2 inches
• Chinese five-spice powder2 tsp
• plum jam1/2 cup
• soy sauce1/3 cup
• rice wine or dry sherry1/2 cup
• beef stock2 cups

Method

1. 1Season the short ribs generously with salt and pepper.
2. 2Sear the ribs in oil over medium-high heat until browned on all sides, then set aside.
3. 3Add onion, garlic, ginger, and five-spice to the pot and cook until fragrant.
4. 4Stir in plum jam, soy sauce, rice wine, and stock, scraping up the browned bits.
5. 5Return the ribs to the pot, cover, and braise at a low simmer or in a low oven until very tender.
6. 6Uncover and reduce the sauce until glossy and spoonable, basting the ribs as it thickens.
7. 7Serve the ribs with the sauce spooned over the top and any pan juices reduced to a lacquer.

Tips

• Keep the braise at a gentle simmer so the meat softens without shredding apart too early.
• If the sauce tastes too sweet, balance it with a splash more soy or a few drops of vinegar.
• This dish pairs well with plain rice, mashed sweet potato, or steamed greens.

Nutrition