It’s The Year Of The Pig

Today is Chinese New Year.  In Chinese culture, each year relates to a sign of the zodiac and is distinguished by an animal.  This year, 2019, is the Year of the Pig.  So what better way to celebrate than with some very yummy Chinese Slow Cooker Pork Spare Ribs!  These are really simple to make, very delicious to eat and even better, these can be made gluten free.  These ribs take almost no work and with some rice and stir fried green beans, or broccoli, or any veggie of your choice…dinner in celebration of the Chinese New Year of the Pig is served 🙂

Chinese Slow Cooker Spare Ribs

4 pounds spareribs, baby back or St. Louis style are preferable
1/2 cup gluten free soy sauce
1/2 cup honey
1/2 cup water
1/4 cup rice wine
1/4 cup peeled chopped fresh ginger
6 cloves of garlic
2 tablespoons molasses
1 tablespoon Chinese Five Spice (most super markets carry this in the spice aisle)
1-2 teaspoon Asian chile sauce (his can be very spicy,start with less and add to the desired spiciness)

Cut the ribs into individual pieces.  Place ribs in the slow cooker.  Next place the other ingredients in your blender and mix until smooth.  Pour over the ribs and toss until evenly coated.

Allow the ribs to marinate for 1 hour at room temperature.  After marinating, cook on high for 4 hours until the meat is tender but not falling off the bones.  Reserve juices.

Transfer the ribs to a foil lined baking sheet.  Spoon some of the juices over the ribs.  Place in a 425 degree oven for 1/2 hour.  Transfer to a serving platter and drizzle with a little more of the juices.  Happy New Year!