How To Cook Ribs On The Stove

Cooking ribs on the stove is a quick and convenient way to get tender, flavourful meat without using an oven or grill. This method simmers the ribs slowly in a pot until they soften, then finishes them with a rich sauce to create a delicious, comforting dish. Stovetop ribs come out juicy and well-seasoned, and you can easily adjust the flavours with spices, broth, or barbecue sauce. With simple preparation and steady heat, you can enjoy a satisfying rib meal even when you don’t have much time or equipment.

1. Prepare and Season the Ribs
   Start by rinsing the ribs under cold water and patting them dry. Remove the thin membrane on the underside of the rack if it is still attached, as this helps the ribs cook more evenly and become more tender. Cut the ribs into smaller sections so they fit easily into your pot. Season them well with salt, pepper, garlic powder, paprika, and any favourite spice mix. You can also rub them with a bit of oil and vinegar or a small amount of soy sauce for extra flavour.
2. Brown the Ribs for Extra Flavour
   Heat a little oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Add the ribs in batches and brown them on all sides. This step adds depth to the flavour and makes the final dish richer. Avoid overcrowding the pot, as this can cause the ribs to steam instead of sear. Once browned, remove the ribs and set them aside.
3. Build the Cooking Base
   In the same pot, add chopped onions and garlic and sauté until soft and fragrant. You can also add carrots, green peppers, or celery for extra flavour. Sprinkle in spices like curry powder, mixed herbs, or chilli flakes if you want a bit of heat. Stir everything together to form a savoury base that will season the ribs as they cook.
4. Simmer the Ribs Until Tender
   Return the browned ribs to the pot and pour in enough water or broth to cover most of the meat. Add a spoon of tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, or a bit of barbecue sauce to enrich the broth. Bring the pot to a boil, then reduce the heat and let the ribs simmer gently. Cook for about one to one and a half hours, or until the ribs are tender and pull away easily from the bone. Turn them occasionally to ensure even cooking.
5. Thicken the Sauce and Finish
   Once the ribs are soft, remove the lid and let the liquid simmer down to form a thick sauce. Add more barbecue sauce, ketchup, soy sauce, or honey depending on the flavour you want. Let the ribs cook in the reduced sauce for about ten minutes so they become sticky and well-coated.
6. Serve and Enjoy
   Serve the stovetop ribs with rice, mashed potatoes, pap, or steamed vegetables. They are tender, juicy, and full of flavour, making them a comforting, satisfying dish for any day of the week.

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