Braised Pork Ribs with Cabbage Recipe

Ingredients:

• 1 tablespoon black tea powder
• 2 racks pork spare ribs (about 3 pounds total)
• 1 large head green cabbage, cored and sliced
• 1 cup barbecue sauce
• 1/2 cup brown sugar
• 1/4 cup soy sauce
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• 1 tablespoon minced garlic
• 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
• 1 teaspoon ground black pepper
• Salt to taste
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 1 onion, thinly sliced
• 4 cloves garlic, smashed
• 2 bay leaves
• 4 cups chicken broth
• Honey, for drizzling (optional)

Instructions:

Prepare the Black Tea Marinade:

• In a small bowl, mix the black tea powder with 1 cup of hot water. Allow the tea to steep for 3-4 minutes, then strain and let it cool.
• In a large bowl, whisk together the cooled black tea, barbecue sauce, brown sugar, soy sauce, tomato paste, minced garlic, grated ginger, and ground black pepper to create a marinade.

Marinate the Ribs:

• Add the spare ribs to the marinade, ensuring they are well coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or up to 24 hours.

Prepare the Cabbage:

• In a large pot, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the sliced onion and smashed garlic, cooking until the onion is softened and translucent, about 5 minutes.
• Add the sliced cabbage to the pot, season with salt, and cook until the cabbage is wilted, about 5-7 minutes.

Braise the Ribs:

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the marinated ribs in a roasting pan, discarding the excess marinade.
• Roast the ribs for 1 hour, then pour the chicken broth over the ribs. Add the bay leaves and continue to roast for another 1 1/2 to 2 hours, or until the ribs are tender and the meat is easily pulled away from the bone.

Assemble and Finish:

• Remove the ribs from the oven and transfer them to a baking sheet. Broil for 2-3 minutes to caramelize the top layer.
• If desired, drizzle the ribs with honey for added glaze.
• Serve the braised ribs with the cooked cabbage on the side.
• Enjoy your Braised Pork Ribs with Cabbage, infused with the unique flavor of black tea, perfect for a cozy family dinner or a hearty winter meal.