Steph’s Pork Riblets: A Kid-Approved Recipe
When I created this recipe, I never expected it to become such a hit in our household! The savory flavors of the marinade paired with tender pork riblets had everyone coming back for seconds. Even my picky eaters, including my kids, couldn’t stop saying, “Mmm, Mommy, that is yummy!” This recipe is perfect for any family dinner, and it’s super simple to prepare—great for those busy evenings when you want something delicious yet easy to make.
Recipe Overview:
- Cook Time: 1 hour
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
- Recipe Category: Pork
- Recipe Yield: 2 pounds of pork riblets
- Servings: 4 (approximately, depending on portion size)
Ingredients:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Beef broth | 8 ounces |
| Soy sauce | 4 tablespoons |
| Brown sugar | 2 tablespoons |
| Fresh ginger (grated) | 2 teaspoons |
| Ground ginger | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Soy sauce (for marinade) | 1 tablespoon |
| Dijon-style mustard | 2 teaspoons |
Nutritional Information (Per Serving):
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 386.6 kcal |
| Fat Content | 28.15 g |
| Saturated Fat | 9.94 g |
| Cholesterol Content | 1182.38 mg |
| Sodium Content | 1943.55 mg |
| Carbohydrate Content | 2.51 g |
| Fiber Content | 0.09 g |
| Sugar Content | 1.94 g |
| Protein Content | 32.76 g |
Note: Nutritional information is approximate and may vary based on specific ingredients used.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
-
Prepare the Marinade:
Begin by combining the beef broth, soy sauce, and brown sugar in a bowl. Stir them well to ensure the sugar dissolves completely and the mixture is smooth. This will serve as the base of your marinade, giving the riblets a delicious balance of sweet and savory. -
Marinate the Pork Riblets:
Pour the marinade mixture over the pork riblets in a large shallow dish or resealable plastic bag. Make sure the riblets are evenly coated, allowing them to soak up all those wonderful flavors. For best results, let the riblets marinate for about 6 hours, although if you have time, marinating them overnight will make them even more flavorful. The longer they sit, the more intense the flavor will be! -
Prepare the Italian Dressing Marinade:
In a separate bowl, combine the Italian dressing, ginger (fresh and ground), soy sauce, and Dijon-style mustard. Stir everything together until the mixture is well-combined. This will act as a basting sauce for your riblets while they cook. -
Preheat the Oven:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to ensure it’s hot enough for baking the riblets. This will help them cook evenly and get that perfect golden brown exterior. -
Cooking the Riblets:
About one hour before you plan to serve the riblets, take them out of the marinade and arrange them on a baking pan. Pour the Italian dressing mixture generously over all the riblets. This adds extra flavor and helps keep the meat moist during cooking. -
Bake the Riblets:
Place the pan of riblets into your preheated oven and bake for about 1 hour, or until the riblets are cooked to your desired level of tenderness. You can check them by piercing the meat with a fork—if it easily pulls apart, the riblets are ready! Be sure to baste the riblets with the marinade once or twice while they cook to keep them juicy and flavorful. -
Alternative Cooking Methods:
If you prefer a crispy finish or a smokier flavor, you can also grill or broil the riblets. For grilling, cook over medium heat, turning the riblets occasionally and basting frequently with the sauce. If broiling, keep the riblets about 4-6 inches from the heat source, turning them every few minutes to ensure an even char. -
Serve and Enjoy:
Once the riblets are cooked and beautifully golden brown, remove them from the oven. Allow them to rest for a few minutes before serving. Serve the riblets with your favorite sides—think mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a simple salad.
Tips and Variations:
- Make it Spicy: If you prefer a bit of heat, try adding a dash of hot sauce or a pinch of red pepper flakes to the marinade or basting sauce. This will give the riblets an extra kick that adults will love.
- Oven-Free Option: If the weather is nice, these riblets are perfect for grilling. Simply follow the grilling instructions mentioned above for a smoky, charred finish.
- Add Vegetables: Consider roasting some vegetables alongside the riblets in the same pan. Carrots, potatoes, and onions would soak up the delicious juices from the pork, making them even more flavorful.
- Make Ahead: These riblets are a great option for meal prep. Marinate the riblets the night before and bake or grill them the next day for an easy, tasty meal.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
- Kid-Friendly: The sweet and savory flavors make these riblets a big hit with the little ones. You can rest easy knowing they’ll enjoy their meal.
- Low Carb & High Protein: With only 2.51 grams of carbs per serving, these riblets are a great option for anyone following a low-carb lifestyle. Plus, the 32.76 grams of protein per serving will keep you feeling satisfied.
- Simple & Easy: This recipe doesn’t require any complicated ingredients or techniques. It’s straightforward, making it perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special family gathering.
- Versatile: Whether you bake, grill, or broil these riblets, you can adjust the cooking method to your preference.
Give this recipe a try, and I’m sure it will quickly become a favorite in your household too. It’s one of those meals that’s so tasty, you’ll find yourself making it again and again!
