How To Cook Country Style Pork Ribs On Stove Top

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Introduction

Cooking country style pork ribs on the stove top is a delicious and convenient way to enjoy this flavorful cut of meat. While grilling or baking may be the more traditional methods for cooking ribs, using the stove top allows for tender and succulent pork ribs in a fraction of the time.

In this article, we will walk you through the step-by-step process of cooking country style pork ribs on the stove top. Whether you are a beginner in the kitchen or a seasoned home cook, this recipe is sure to impress your family and friends. So fire up the stove and let’s get cooking!

Before we dive into the cooking process, let’s quickly discuss what country style pork ribs are. Unlike traditional pork ribs, country style ribs are cut from the shoulder end of the pork loin, which makes them meatier and more tender. This makes them perfect for cooking on the stove, as they can easily absorb flavors and become melt-in-your-mouth delicious.

To ensure the best results, it’s important to choose high-quality country style pork ribs. Look for ribs that have a good amount of marbling and are evenly sized. Additionally, you may need to trim off any excess fat or silver skin for a leaner and more appealing final dish.

Now that we have our pork ribs ready, it’s time to move on to the next step: seasoning. Stay tuned for Step 1: Choosing and preparing the pork ribs.

Step 1: Choosing and preparing the pork ribs

The first step in cooking country style pork ribs on the stove top is selecting the right ribs and preparing them for cooking. Here’s what you need to do:

1. Choose high-quality ribs: Look for country style pork ribs that are well-marbled and evenly sized. This will ensure tender and flavorful results.
2. Trim excess fat: If your ribs have a thick layer of fat, it’s a good idea to trim it down to avoid excessive greasiness. Use a sharp knife to carefully remove any excess fat or silver skin.
3. Season generously: Before cooking, season your ribs with your choice of dry rub or marinade. This will infuse them with flavor and enhance the taste. You can use a store-bought seasoning blend or create your own using a combination of spices like paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
4. Allow marinating time: For even more flavor, you can marinate the ribs for a few hours or overnight in the refrigerator. This will allow the seasonings to penetrate the meat and make it more tender.

Once your pork ribs are prepared, you’re ready to move on to the next step: searing the ribs. Stay tuned for Step 2 to learn how to achieve a beautiful caramelized crust on your country style pork ribs.

Step 2: Seasoning the pork ribs

Seasoning the pork ribs is a crucial step that adds flavor and enhances the taste. By taking the time to properly season the ribs, you’ll be rewarded with a delicious and well-seasoned final dish. Here’s how to season your pork ribs:

1. Dry rub: A dry rub is a mixture of various spices and herbs that are applied directly to the surface of the meat. For country style pork ribs, you can create your own dry rub using a combination of ingredients like paprika, brown sugar, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Pat the ribs dry with a paper towel and generously coat them with the dry rub, making sure to rub it into the meat to ensure even distribution.
2. Marinade: If you prefer a more intense and flavorful taste, you can opt to marinate the pork ribs instead of using a dry rub. A marinade typically consists of a liquid base (such as vinegar, soy sauce, or citrus juice) combined with herbs, spices, and other flavorings. Submerge the ribs in the marinade and refrigerate for several hours or overnight to allow the flavors to penetrate the meat.
3. Combination: If you want to amp up the flavor even more, you can also combine a dry rub with a marinade. Start by applying the dry rub to the ribs and letting them sit for a while. Then, add the marinade and let the ribs marinate in the refrigerator. This double-dose of flavor will result in incredibly flavorful ribs.

Regardless of whether you choose to use a dry rub or a marinade, make sure to coat the ribs thoroughly and evenly. Allow the seasonings to sit on the meat for a while to let them infuse their flavors. This will result in a more flavorful and delicious final dish.

Now that your pork ribs are well-seasoned, you’re ready to move on to the next step: searing the ribs. Stay tuned for Step 3 to learn how to achieve a beautiful caramelized crust on your country style pork ribs.

Step 3: Searing the ribs

Searing the pork ribs before cooking them on the stove top is an essential step that helps to lock in juices and create a caramelized crust. This step adds both flavor and texture to the ribs, making them more delicious and visually appealing. Here’s how to sear your pork ribs:

1. Heat a pan: Start by heating a large, heavy-bottomed skillet or a cast iron pan over medium-high heat. The pan should be hot enough to generate a sizzling sound when the ribs are placed on it. Adding a small amount of oil can help prevent sticking.
2. Place the ribs: Carefully place the pork ribs onto the hot pan, ensuring that they are not overcrowded. This allows the heat to be evenly distributed and ensures proper browning. Leave enough space between each rib for proper browning.
3. Sear on each side: Let the ribs sear for about 2-3 minutes on each side, or until a rich, golden brown crust forms. Avoid moving the ribs too frequently, as this can prevent proper browning.
4. Flip and repeat: Once one side is nicely seared, use a pair of tongs to flip the ribs and sear the other side. This helps to seal in the flavors and juices, resulting in tender and succulent ribs.

Remember that the purpose of searing is to develop a flavorful crust, not to fully cook the ribs. The ribs will continue to cook through in the next steps. So, resist the temptation to overcook them at this stage, as it may result in dry and tough meat.

With your pork ribs beautifully seared, it’s time to move on to the next step: adding the liquid. Stay tuned for Step 4 to learn how to create a flavorful braising liquid for your country style pork ribs.

Step 4: Adding the liquid

Adding the right liquid to your country style pork ribs is key to creating a flavorful and tender final dish. The liquid helps to braise the ribs, infusing them with moisture and additional flavors. Here’s how to add the liquid to your pork ribs:

1. Choose your liquid: There are several options for the liquid component, depending on your taste preferences. Common choices include beef or vegetable broth, apple juice, cider, wine, or a combination of these. These liquids will not only add moisture but also contribute their own unique flavors to the dish.
2. Measure and pour: Determine the amount of liquid needed based on the size of your pan and the number of ribs. Generally, you’ll want enough liquid to partially submerge the ribs. Carefully pour the chosen liquid into the pan, ensuring it reaches about halfway up the sides of the ribs.
3. Add flavorings: To enhance the taste of the braising liquid, you can add additional flavorings such as chopped onions, garlic, herbs, spices, or even a splash of Worcestershire sauce. These ingredients will infuse the ribs with extra aromas and flavors during the cooking process.

Once you’ve added the liquid and flavorings, it’s time to move on to the next step: simmering the ribs. Stay tuned for Step 5 to discover how to cook the pork ribs to perfection on the stove top.

For tender and juicy country style pork ribs on the stove top, sear the ribs in a hot pan to lock in the juices, then simmer in a flavorful liquid like broth or BBQ sauce for at least 1-1.5 hours until tender.

Step 5: Simmering the ribs

Simmering is the cooking method that will transform your country style pork ribs into tender and flavorful pieces of meat. This gentle and slow cooking process allows the ribs to absorb the flavors of the braising liquid and become incredibly tender. Here’s how to simmer the ribs to perfection:

1. Cover and reduce heat: Once the liquid and flavorings have been added to the pan, cover it with a lid. Reduce the heat to low or medium-low to maintain a gentle simmer. This will ensure that the ribs cook slowly and evenly, allowing the flavors to meld together.
2. Simmer for the recommended time: The cooking time will vary depending on the thickness of the ribs and the desired doneness. As a general guideline, country style pork ribs typically simmer for about 1 to 1 1/2 hours. During this time, the ribs will become tender and juicy.
3. Occasionally baste the ribs: To keep the ribs moist and flavorful, it’s a good idea to occasionally baste them with the braising liquid. Use a ladle or spoon to scoop some of the liquid over the ribs, ensuring they remain moist and flavorful throughout the cooking process.
4. Test for doneness: After the recommended cooking time, check the doneness of the ribs by poking them with a fork or by using a meat thermometer. The internal temperature should be around 145°F (63°C) for medium-rare or 160°F (71°C) for medium. If the ribs are not yet fully cooked, continue simmering until they reach the desired level of doneness.

Simmering the ribs allows them to become incredibly tender and flavorful. The slow cooking process ensures that the meat is cooked through while remaining juicy and succulent. With the ribs simmered to perfection, you’re now ready to move on to the next step: checking for doneness. Stay tuned for Step 6 to learn how to determine if the ribs are cooked to perfection.

Step 6: Checking for doneness

Checking for doneness is a crucial step to ensure that your country style pork ribs are cooked to perfection. Overcooking them can result in dry and tough meat, while undercooking can leave them underwhelming and potentially unsafe to eat. Here’s how to check if your ribs are done:

1. Visual cues: Take a close look at the ribs to see if they have reached the desired level of doneness. They should have a rich, golden-brown color on the outside, and the meat should be tender and easily pulling away from the bone.
2. Temperature check: To be certain, you can use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature. Insert the thermometer into the thickest part of the rib without touching the bone. The recommended internal temperature for pork ribs is 145°F (63°C) for medium-rare or 160°F (71°C) for medium.
3. Texture test: You can also perform a texture test by gently pressing a fork or tongs onto the meat. If it is easily pierced and feels tender, the ribs are likely done. If the meat still feels tough or chewy, continue simmering until the desired tenderness is achieved.

Remember that the cooking time may vary depending on the thickness of the ribs and the heat level. It’s always better to slightly undercook the ribs and let them rest, as residual heat will continue to cook them even after they are removed from the stove top.

With the ribs checked and confirmed to be cooked through, it’s time for the final step: serving the country style pork ribs. Stay tuned for Step 7 to learn how to present this delicious dish in an appealing and appetizing way.

Step 7: Serving the country style pork ribs

After all the care and effort put into cooking your country style pork ribs, it’s time to present them in a way that is both visually appealing and tantalizing to the taste buds. Here’s how to serve your delicious country style pork ribs:

1. Rest the ribs: Before serving, allow the pork ribs to rest for a few minutes. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute within the meat, resulting in a more tender and flavorful final product.
2. Garnish: To add a touch of freshness and visual appeal, consider garnishing the ribs with some chopped fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro. You can also drizzle some of the braising liquid over the ribs for extra moisture and flavor.
3. Accompaniments: Serve the country style pork ribs with your choice of sides. Classic options include mashed potatoes, coleslaw, cornbread, or a crisp green salad. These side dishes complement the rich and savory flavors of the ribs and create a well-rounded meal.
4. Serving style: You can present the ribs individually plated or on a large platter for a family-style dining experience. Consider adding a colorful garnish or drizzling some barbecue sauce for an added touch of flavor.

As you serve the country style pork ribs, don’t forget to emphasize the tenderness and juiciness of the meat. Encourage your guests to savor the flavors and enjoy the melt-in-your-mouth texture.

Now that the country style pork ribs are beautifully presented and ready to be enjoyed, it’s time to sit back, relax, and savor every delicious bite. Congratulations on successfully cooking country style pork ribs on the stove top!

Thank you for following this step-by-step guide. We hope you have found it helpful and that it has inspired you to try this mouthwatering recipe. Enjoy your meal!

Conclusion

Cooking country style pork ribs on the stove top is a convenient and flavorful way to enjoy this delicious cut of meat. By following the step-by-step guide outlined in this article, you can create tender and succulent pork ribs that will impress your family and friends.

From choosing the right ribs and preparing them with a flavorful seasoning to searing them for a caramelized crust, adding the liquid for braising, simmering them to perfection, and checking for doneness, each step plays a vital role in creating mouthwatering country style pork ribs.

When it comes to serving the ribs, take the time to let them rest and garnish them to enhance the flavor and presentation. Pair the ribs with complementary side dishes and present them in a way that appeals to the senses.

Remember, cooking is all about creativity and personalization. Feel free to experiment with different seasonings, marinades, and side dishes to make the dish your own. Enjoy the process of cooking and the joy of sharing a delicious meal with your loved ones.

We hope this article has provided you with the knowledge and inspiration to cook country style pork ribs on the stove top. So, fire up the stove, gather your ingredients, and get ready to savor the amazing flavors of this mouthwatering dish. Happy cooking!