When it comes to family meals, nothing beats a hearty dish that’s both satisfying and simple to prepare. If you’re looking to make scrumptious pork side ribs without the need for a grill or oven, you’re in the right place. This stovetop braised pork ribs recipe is designed for busy parents who crave flavorful, home-cooked meals made with love.

Why Choose Braised Pork Ribs?

Braising is a time-honored cooking method that combines browning the meat and slow cooking it in liquid. This technique results in tender, juicy ribs that are packed with flavor. It's perfect for those days when you want to avoid the hustle of grilling or the long wait of oven baking.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Here’s a list of simple ingredients to get you started:

• 2 lbs pork side ribs, cut into individual ribs
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 onion, finely chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup chicken or vegetable broth
• 1/2 cup soy sauce
• 1/4 cup brown sugar
• 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

1. Prepare the Ribs

Start by trimming any excess fat from the ribs. Season them generously with salt and pepper. This initial seasoning enhances the flavors during the cooking process.

2. Brown the Ribs

In a large pot over medium heat, add the olive oil. Once hot, add the ribs in batches, ensuring not to overcrowd the pot. Brown each side for about 3-4 minutes until a golden crust forms. Remove the ribs and set them aside.

3. Sauté the Aromatics

In the same pot, reduce the heat slightly and add the chopped onion and garlic. Sauté until the onion becomes translucent and aromatic, taking care not to burn the garlic.

4. Create the Braising Liquid

Add the broth, soy sauce, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, and smoked paprika to the pot. Stir well to combine, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan for extra flavor.

5. Braise the Ribs

Return the ribs to the pot, ensuring they are submerged in the liquid. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Cover the pot and let the ribs cook on low heat for 1.5 to 2 hours, or until they are tender and the meat easily pulls away from the bone.

Serving Suggestions

These braised pork ribs pair beautifully with a variety of sides:

• Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes make an excellent base to soak up the flavorful sauce.
• Steamed Vegetables: Brighten your plate with a medley of steamed broccoli, carrots, and green beans.
• Rice: A simple bowl of white or brown rice complements the savory richness of the ribs.

Tips for Perfect Braised Ribs

• Patience is Key: Allow the ribs to cook slowly to ensure tenderness.
• Browning Matters: Don’t skip the step of browning the ribs; it builds a depth of flavor that's hard to beat.
• Adjust the Sweetness: Feel free to tweak the amount of brown sugar to suit your family’s taste preferences.