Steamed Spare Ribs is a classic Chinese dish commonly served in traditional dim sum restaurants. Known for its tender meat, rich savory sauce, and aromatic seasonings, this dish is especially popular in Cantonese cuisine. The ribs are marinated with soy sauce, garlic, fermented black beans, and spices before being gently steamed until juicy and flavorful.

This simple yet delicious recipe highlights the essence of Chinese cooking—fresh ingredients, balanced seasoning, and precise cooking techniques. Steamed spare ribs are often enjoyed with rice or served as part of a dim sum meal.

What Are Steamed Spare Ribs?

Steamed Spare Ribs are pork ribs cut into small bite-sized pieces and marinated with flavorful ingredients like garlic, ginger, soy sauce, and fermented black beans. The ribs are then steamed, which keeps the meat moist and tender while allowing the sauce to deeply penetrate the meat.

This dish is a staple in Cantonese-style dim sum restaurants and is often served in small bamboo steamers.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

500 g pork spare ribs (cut into small pieces)
1 tablespoon fermented black beans, rinsed and crushed
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon ginger, finely chopped
1 tablespoon soy sauce
1 teaspoon oyster sauce
1 teaspoon sesame oil
1 teaspoon sugar
½ teaspoon white pepper

Thickening Ingredient

1 tablespoon cornstarch

Garnish

2 green onions, chopped
Fresh red chili slices (optional)

Preparation Time

Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Marinating Time: 30 minutes
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
Servings: 3–4

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Ribs

Rinse the pork spare ribs thoroughly and drain well. Pat them dry using paper towels to remove excess moisture.

Step 2: Prepare the Marinade

In a large bowl, combine:

crushed fermented black beans
minced garlic
chopped ginger
soy sauce
oyster sauce
sesame oil
sugar
white pepper

Mix well to create a flavorful marinade.

Step 3: Marinate the Ribs

Add the ribs to the marinade and mix thoroughly so that every piece is coated. Add cornstarch and mix again to help the sauce cling to the meat.

Let the ribs marinate for about 30 minutes.

Step 4: Prepare the Steamer

Fill a wok or large pot with water and bring it to a boil. Place a steaming rack or bamboo steamer inside.

Step 5: Steam the Ribs

Transfer the marinated ribs into a heatproof plate or shallow bowl. Place the plate into the steamer and cover with a lid.

Steam over high heat for about 18–20 minutes until the ribs are fully cooked and tender.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Carefully remove the plate from the steamer and sprinkle chopped green onions and chili slices on top.

Serve hot.

Tips for Perfect Steamed Spare Ribs

Choose Fresh Ribs

Fresh pork ribs provide better flavor and tenderness.

Cut Ribs into Small Pieces

Small pieces cook more evenly and are easier to eat.

Use Fermented Black Beans

Fermented black beans add authentic Cantonese flavor.

Avoid Overcrowding

Spread the ribs in a single layer for even steaming.

Popular Variations

Black Bean Spare Ribs

The most famous dim sum version flavored with fermented black beans.

Garlic Steamed Spare Ribs

A garlic-heavy version with strong aromatic flavor.

Chili Steamed Spare Ribs

Adds fresh chili peppers for a spicy kick.

Pumpkin Steamed Spare Ribs

Ribs are steamed together with pumpkin slices for a sweet and savory taste.

Nutrition Information (Approximate per Serving)

Calories: 390 kcal
Protein: 25 g
Fat: 30 g
Carbohydrates: 4 g

What to Serve with Steamed Spare Ribs

Steamed Spare Ribs pair well with:

Steamed jasmine rice
Stir-fried vegetables
Chinese noodle dishes
Dim sum platters

These sides balance the rich and savory flavor of the ribs.

Final Thoughts

Steamed Spare Ribs is a delicious Cantonese dish that perfectly showcases the delicate steaming techniques used in Chinese cuisine. With its tender meat, savory sauce, and aromatic seasonings, it is a favorite in dim sum restaurants and home kitchens alike.

If you enjoy traditional Chinese recipes, this dish is simple to make and incredibly satisfying.