Pork Ribs with White Wine and Wild Fennel
Category: Main Courses
Servings: 4
This Pork Ribs with White Wine and Wild Fennel recipe is a deliciously rustic Italian dish, perfect for a cozy dinner or a special occasion. The succulent pork ribs are gently braised in white wine, infused with aromatic herbs, and flavored with the unique essence of wild fennel. The rich combination of these ingredients ensures a melt-in-your-mouth experience with every bite. Pair these tender ribs with a side of mashed potatoes, a fresh salad, or even a comforting polenta for the ultimate indulgence.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Pork ribs | 1 kg |
| Extra virgin olive oil | 4 tablespoons |
| Fresh chili pepper | 1 |
| Onion | 1 |
| Fennel seeds | 1 teaspoon |
| Rosemary | 1 sprig |
| Sage | 5 leaves |
| Thyme | 1 sprig |
| White wine | 1 cup |
| Salt | To taste |
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Pork Ribs
Begin by ensuring that the pork ribs are well cleaned. If any bone fragments remain from the cutting process, carefully remove them by washing the ribs under cold running water. Once cleaned, pat the ribs dry with a clean kitchen towel to remove any excess moisture. This step ensures that the ribs will sear properly when cooked.
Step 2: Prepare the Aromatics
Peel and finely chop the onion. Set it aside. Next, finely chop the fresh herbs—rosemary, sage, and thyme—and set them aside as well. If you prefer a bit of heat, chop the fresh chili pepper into small pieces, removing the seeds if you want to tone down the spice level.
Step 3: Sear the Ribs
In a large, heavy-bottomed skillet or Dutch oven, heat the extra virgin olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté it for a few minutes until it softens and becomes translucent. Be careful not to let it brown. Add the chopped herbs and chili pepper to the pan, stirring them into the onions. Let them cook for another minute or so, releasing their fragrance.
Once the onions and herbs are fragrant, add the pork ribs to the pan. Brown the ribs on all sides, turning them carefully to ensure an even sear. This process should take about 15 minutes, and be sure to stir the ingredients occasionally to prevent them from burning.
Step 4: Braise the Ribs
Once the ribs are browned, pour in the white wine, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan with a wooden spoon. Add the fennel seeds and stir to combine. Reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet or Dutch oven, and let the ribs simmer gently. Continue cooking for approximately 1 to 1.5 hours, checking occasionally and adding a small amount of hot water if necessary to keep the ribs from drying out. The goal is to keep the ribs tender and juicy while infusing them with the flavors of the wine and herbs.
Step 5: Final Touches
When the pork ribs are cooked through and tender, remove the skillet from the heat. Taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning with salt as needed. The ribs should be tender, aromatic, and delicious, with the wild fennel imparting a subtle yet earthy flavor.
Step 6: Serve
Serve the Pork Ribs with White Wine and Wild Fennel alongside your favorite side dishes. It pairs wonderfully with a fresh green salad, roasted potatoes, or mashed potatoes. During the colder months, you can also serve it with creamy polenta for a truly comforting meal.
Tips for Success:
- Wine Choice: Choose a dry white wine such as Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc to complement the pork’s richness without overpowering the flavors.
- Herb Variations: If you can’t find wild fennel, you can substitute with regular fennel fronds or fennel seeds for a similar anise-like flavor.
- Searing: Be sure to brown the ribs well before braising to develop a deep, rich flavor in the dish.
- Cooking Time: The key to tender ribs is slow cooking. Don’t rush the braising process—low and slow yields the best results!
This Pork Ribs with White Wine and Wild Fennel recipe is a delightful way to enjoy tender, flavorful pork with a blend of aromatic herbs. The braising technique ensures that the ribs stay moist and flavorful, while the wine and fennel enhance the overall dish. Serve this dish with a side of roasted vegetables or creamy polenta, and you have a meal that’s both hearty and satisfying. Buon appetito!
