
There’s something magical about the aroma of garlic wafting through the kitchen, isn’t there? It instantly brings warmth and comfort, like a hug from a close friend. Today, I’m excited to share a recipe for Steamed Ribs with Garlic Sauce that is not only easy to prepare but also packed with flavor. Trust me, you will want to make this dish for your family and friends!
Why You’ll Love Steamed Ribs With Garlic Sauce
- Fast: You can have the main components prepped and steaming in about 20 minutes.
- Easy: This is a simple method that even beginner cooks can master.
- Giftable: These ribs make a fantastic dish to bring to potlucks or as a comforting meal for a friend.
- Crowd-pleasing: Even those who claim not to like ribs will find it hard to resist this flavorful dish!
Ingredients
- 2 pounds pork ribs: Look for ribs with a good amount of meat on them for maximum flavor.
- 4 cloves garlic, minced: Fresh garlic is key to achieving that aromatic flavor.
- 1 tablespoon ginger, minced: Ginger adds a lovely warmth and depth.
- 1/4 cup soy sauce: This salty goodness brings the umami flavor to life.
- 2 tablespoons rice wine: It helps to tenderize the meat and adds a subtle sweetness.
- 1 tablespoon sugar: Just a touch to balance the flavors.
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil: This adds a nutty aroma that’s hard to resist.
- 1 teaspoon black pepper: For a nice kick!
- 1/4 cup green onions, chopped: These are perfect for garnishing and adding a fresh crunch.
How to Make Steamed Ribs With Garlic Sauce
Now, let’s get cooking! Follow these simple steps to create your delicious meal:
- Start by cutting the pork ribs into individual pieces and placing them in a large bowl.
- In a separate bowl, combine the minced garlic, minced ginger, soy sauce, rice wine, sugar, sesame oil, and black pepper. Mix well to create the marinade.
- Pour the marinade over the ribs, ensuring they are evenly coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or overnight for better flavor.
- Prepare a steamer and bring water to a boil. Place the marinated ribs in the steamer basket in a single layer.
- Steam the ribs for 30-40 minutes, or until they are tender and fully cooked.
- Once cooked, remove the ribs from the steamer and transfer them to a serving platter.
- Garnish with chopped green onions and serve hot. Enjoy!
Substitutions & Additions
If you’re looking to mix things up a bit, here are some fun swaps and additions:
- Try using baby back ribs instead of spare ribs for a more tender option.
- If you’re not a fan of ginger, feel free to leave it out or replace it with five-spice powder.
- Add a dash of sriracha or chili flakes to the marinade for a spicy kick.
- Serve with steamed vegetables or over rice for a complete meal.
Tips for Success
Here are some common mistakes to avoid and ideas to prep ahead:
- Don’t skip the marinating step! Allowing the ribs to soak up the flavors makes a huge difference.
- Make sure the water in your steamer is boiling before adding the ribs to ensure they cook evenly.
- You can prep the ribs a day in advance and let them marinate overnight for even more flavor.
- Consider whipping up a batch of Easy Pineapple Rum Cocktail to serve alongside your ribs for a delightful pairing.
How to Store Steamed Ribs With Garlic Sauce
Leftovers? No problem! Here’s how to store them:
- Allow the ribs to cool completely before transferring them to an airtight container.
- They can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- For longer storage, freeze the ribs in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months.
FAQs
Can I use other types of meat?
Absolutely! This marinade works well with chicken thighs or beef short ribs too.
Can I cook these ribs in an oven instead?
Yes, you can bake them at 300°F (150°C) for about 2-3 hours covered with foil for tender results.
What can I serve with these ribs?
Steamed rice, a fresh cucumber salad, or even some Mac and Cheese Meatball Bombs would complement this dish beautifully!
And there you have it! A delightful recipe for Steamed Ribs with Garlic Sauce that is bound to become a favorite in your home. For more delicious recipes, check out Blueberry Cheesecake Swirl Rolls or Quick Lemon Garlic Butter Salmon for treats you will love!
For even more inspiration, be sure to follow our Pinterest account for all the latest recipes and cooking tips!

Steamed Ribs with Garlic Sauce
Equipment
- large bowl
- Steamer
Ingredients
For the Ribs
- 2 lb pork ribs look for ribs with a good amount of meat on them
- 4 cloves garlic minced
- 1 tbsp ginger minced
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 2 tbsp rice wine
- 1 tbsp sugar
- 1 tbsp sesame oil
- 1 tsp black pepper
- 1/4 cup green onions chopped, for garnishing
Instructions
- Step 1: Start by cutting the pork ribs into individual pieces and placing them in a large bowl.
- Step 2: In a separate bowl, combine the minced garlic, minced ginger, soy sauce, rice wine, sugar, sesame oil, and black pepper. Mix well to create the marinade.
- Step 3: Pour the marinade over the ribs, ensuring they are evenly coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or overnight for better flavor.
- Step 4: Prepare a steamer and bring water to a boil. Place the marinated ribs in the steamer basket in a single layer.
- Step 5: Steam the ribs for 30-40 minutes, or until they are tender and fully cooked.
- Step 6: Once cooked, remove the ribs from the steamer and transfer them to a serving platter.
- Step 7: Garnish with chopped green onions and serve hot. Enjoy!
