Blog

There’s nothing quite like the taste of perfectly cooked pork ribs, with their tender meat that falls off the bone and their smoky, savory flavor. While many people may think that you need a grill or a smoker to achieve this level of deliciousness, you can actually cook pork ribs on the stove and still achieve amazing results.

Cooking pork ribs on the stove is a great option if you don’t have access to a grill or simply prefer to cook indoors. Plus, it’s a relatively quick and easy method that can be done with just a few simple ingredients and basic kitchen tools.

To cook pork ribs on the stove, you’ll need a large skillet or Dutch oven with a lid, so that you can trap the heat and steam the ribs to perfection. You’ll also need some pork ribs, your favorite barbecue sauce, and a few seasonings to enhance the flavor.

Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to cook pork ribs on the stove:

1. Prep the ribs: Start by rinsing the ribs under cold water and patting them dry with paper towels. Then, remove the membrane from the back of the ribs, as it can be tough and prevent the seasonings from penetrating the meat.
2. Season the ribs: Generously season the ribs with your favorite dry rub or a mixture of salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika. Massage the seasonings into the meat to ensure even distribution.
3. Sear the ribs: Heat some oil in the skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the ribs and sear them for a few minutes on each side until they develop a nice crust and deep brown color.
4. Add the sauce: Pour your favorite barbecue sauce over the seared ribs, making sure to coat them evenly. You can also add some water or broth to the skillet to create steam and help tenderize the meat.
5. Cover and simmer: Reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet with the lid, and let the ribs simmer for about 1 to 1.5 hours, or until the meat is tender and pulls away from the bone easily.
6. Finish under the broiler: If you want to add a caramelized, smoky finish, you can pop the ribs under the broiler for a few minutes to char the edges and caramelize the sauce.
7. Serve and enjoy: Once the ribs are cooked to your liking, remove them from the stove and let them rest for a few minutes. Then, slice them into individual ribs and serve with extra barbecue sauce on the side.

Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, learning how to cook pork ribs on the stove is a valuable skill to have in your culinary repertoire. With just a few simple steps, you can enjoy mouthwatering ribs that are juicy, tender, and packed with flavor. So, fire up the stove and get ready to impress your family and friends with this delicious dish.

How to Cook Pork Ribs on the Stove

When it comes to pork ribs, many people automatically think of grilling or smoking them. However, you can still achieve delicious and tender ribs by cooking them on the stove. Here’s a simple recipe to get you started.

Ingredients:

• 2 pounds of pork ribs
• 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil
• 1 cup of barbecue sauce
• 1 teaspoon of salt
• 1 teaspoon of pepper
• 1 teaspoon of paprika
• 1 teaspoon of garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon of onion powder

Instructions:

1. Start by seasoning the ribs with salt, pepper, paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder. Make sure to rub the seasonings evenly on both sides of the ribs.
2. Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet or frying pan over medium heat.
3. Add the seasoned ribs to the pan, meat side down. Cook for about 5 minutes, or until the meat is browned and seared.
4. Flip the ribs using tongs or a spatula and cook for another 5 minutes to brown the other side.
5. Pour the barbecue sauce over the ribs, making sure to coat them evenly.
6. Reduce the heat to low, cover the pan, and let the ribs simmer for about 1 hour, or until the meat is tender and cooked through. You can also test for doneness by inserting a fork into the meat – if it easily slides in and out, the ribs are done.
7. Remove the ribs from the pan and let them rest for a few minutes.
8. Serve the ribs hot with additional barbecue sauce on the side, if desired.

Now you can enjoy delicious and tender pork ribs cooked right on your stove!

Choosing the Right Ribs

When it comes to cooking pork ribs on the stove, choosing the right ribs is crucial. Different types of ribs have different flavors and textures, so it’s important to select the ones that will suit your taste preferences.

There are three main types of pork ribs: baby back ribs, spare ribs, and St. Louis-style ribs.

1. Baby Back Ribs: These are the most tender and leanest ribs. They come from the top of the rib cage and are shorter in size compared to spare ribs. Baby back ribs are known for their mild flavor and are a popular choice for many home cooks.

2. Spare Ribs: These are larger and fattier than baby back ribs. They come from the bottom part of the rib cage and have more meat on them. Spare ribs have a rich, meaty flavor and are perfect for those who enjoy a juicier and more indulgent rib experience.

3. St. Louis-Style Ribs: These ribs are spare ribs that have been trimmed, removing the rib tips and breastbone. St. Louis-style ribs are larger and meatier than baby back ribs but are still tender and flavorful. They are a great middle ground between baby back ribs and spare ribs.

When choosing ribs, look for ones that are fresh and have a good amount of meat on them. The meat should be pink in color, and the bones should be white. Avoid ribs that have a strong odor or are discolored.

Before cooking, it’s also important to remove the membrane on the bone side of the ribs. This membrane can make the ribs tough and chewy if left on during cooking. To remove it, simply slide a knife under the membrane and lift it away.

Rib Type	Location on the Rib Cage	Flavor	Texture
Baby Back Ribs	Top of the rib cage	Mild	Tender
Spare Ribs	Bottom of the rib cage	Rich and meaty	Juicy
St. Louis-Style Ribs	Trimmed spare ribs	Tender and flavorful	Meaty

Preparing the Ribs

Before cooking the pork ribs on the stove, it is important to properly prepare them. Follow these steps to ensure delicious and tender ribs:

Step 1:	Remove the membrane from the back of the ribs. This tough membrane can prevent flavors from penetrating the meat and make it tougher to eat. To remove it, start at one end of the ribs and use a butter knife or your fingers to lift the membrane. Once you have a grip on it, peel it off in one piece. If it tears, use a paper towel to get a better grip and continue peeling.
Step 2:	Rinse the ribs under cold water and pat them dry with a paper towel. This will help remove any excess blood or bone fragments and ensure that the seasoning sticks better to the meat.
Step 3:	Season the ribs generously with your desired dry rub or marinade. You can use pre-made rubs or create your own by mixing spices like paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, brown sugar, salt, and pepper. Make sure to coat both sides of the ribs evenly for maximum flavor.
Step 4:	Let the seasoned ribs sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes. This will allow the flavors to penetrate the meat and enhance the overall taste. In the meantime, preheat your stove to medium heat.

By properly preparing the ribs before cooking, you’ll ensure that they turn out tender, juicy, and packed with flavor.

Marinating the Ribs

Marinating the ribs is an important step to infuse them with flavor. Here’s how to do it:

1. Prepare the marinade by combining your desired ingredients. You can use a pre-made marinade or create your own using a combination of olive oil, soy sauce, garlic, brown sugar, and your favorite spices and herbs.
2. If using a pre-made marinade, pour it into a large zip-top plastic bag. If making your own marinade, combine the ingredients in a bowl and transfer it to the bag.
3. Add the pork ribs to the bag, ensuring they are fully submerged in the marinade. Press out any excess air and seal the bag tightly.
4. Place the bag in the refrigerator and let the ribs marinate for at least 2 hours, but preferably overnight. The longer you marinate, the more flavor the ribs will absorb.
5. Occasionally flip the bag gently to ensure that the marinade is evenly distributed.
6. When you are ready to cook the ribs, remove them from the marinade and let any excess marinade drip off.

Now your pork ribs are ready to be cooked on the stove!

Cooking the Ribs

Once the ribs have been marinated, it’s time to cook them on the stove. Here’s how:

Step 1: Preheat a large skillet or frying pan over medium-high heat. Add a tablespoon of cooking oil and let it heat up.

Step 2: Place the marinated ribs in the hot skillet, meat-side down. Allow them to cook for about 2-3 minutes to develop a nice sear. Repeat this process for each side of the ribs.

Step 3: Reduce the heat to medium-low and pour any remaining marinade or sauce over the ribs. Cover the skillet with a lid and let the ribs simmer for about 1-1.5 hours, or until the meat is tender and easily pulls away from the bone.

Step 4: Turn the ribs occasionally and baste them with the sauce to keep them moist and flavorful.

Step 5: Towards the end of the cooking time, remove the lid and increase the heat to medium-high to caramelize the sauce and add a crispy finish to the ribs. Be careful not to let them burn.

Step 6: Once the ribs are cooked to your liking, remove them from the skillet and let them rest for a few minutes. This will help the juices redistribute throughout the meat.

Now that your delicious pork ribs are ready, it’s time to serve them up and enjoy!

FAQ

How long does it take to cook pork ribs on the stove?

Cooking time for pork ribs on the stove depends on the thickness of the ribs and the desired level of tenderness. Generally, it takes about 1.5 to 2 hours to cook pork ribs on the stove.

Can I use a regular pan to cook pork ribs on the stove?

Yes, you can use a regular pan to cook pork ribs on the stove. However, it is recommended to use a deep pan or a Dutch oven to ensure that the ribs are fully submerged in liquid and cooked evenly.

Can I marinate the pork ribs before cooking them on the stove?

Yes, marinating the pork ribs before cooking them on the stove can add more flavor. You can marinate the ribs in a mixture of your choice, such as a barbecue sauce, for a few hours or overnight in the refrigerator.

What can I serve with pork ribs cooked on the stove?

There are various side dishes that go well with pork ribs cooked on the stove. Some options include coleslaw, baked beans, mashed potatoes, cornbread, or a fresh green salad. It ultimately depends on your personal preference.

How long does it take to cook pork ribs on the stove?

It usually takes about 1 to 1.5 hours to cook pork ribs on the stove. However, the exact cooking time can vary depending on the size of the ribs and the desired level of doneness.

What is the best way to season pork ribs for cooking on the stove?

There are many different ways to season pork ribs for cooking on the stove, but some popular options include using a dry rub or marinade. A dry rub typically consists of a mixture of herbs, spices, and other seasonings that are rubbed onto the surface of the ribs before cooking. A marinade, on the other hand, is a liquid mixture that the ribs are soaked in before cooking to infuse them with flavor. Some common ingredients used in marinades for pork ribs include soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, garlic, and brown sugar.