I’ve always loved short ribs and enjoy exploring new ways to cook them. When I discovered this Crispy Garlic Chili Ribs recipe, I was hooked to try it! The ribs are packed with bold, garlicky goodness (thanks to a genius garlic water soak!) and deliver that crave-worthy, deep-fried crunch — but with the magic of air frying. Less oil, all the flavor, and seriously addictive — what’s not to love?
RECIPE
- 2lb pork ribs
- at least 1 whole garlic
- 1tbsp white pepper powder
- 2tbsp/20g oyster sauce
- 30ml cooking wine
- 3g salt
- 8g sugar
- 5g ginger or 2tsp ginger powder
- 1tbsp five spice powder
- corn starch
- glutinous rice flour 糯米粉
- rice flour 粘米粉
- wheat starch/gluten-free flour 澄粉
- 1tsp baking soda
- 1tsp baking powder
- 1-2 minced chili pepper
Step 1: Coat short ribs with enough cornstarch and 1 tablespoon of salt. Soak in water for at least 30 minutes, stirring occasionally to help the cornstarch absorb any boar taint.
Step 2: Blend 1 whole garlic bulb with 1 cup of water. Let it sit for at least 10 minutes, then strain and save the garlic water. Store the minced garlic in a sealed container in the fridge; soaking ribs in garlic water intensifies the flavor!
Step 3: Rinse the short ribs thoroughly to remove the cornstarch water, then soak them in the garlic water.
Step 4: Add the following to the ribs:
- 1 tablespoon white pepper powder
- 2 tablespoons oyster sauce
- 30ml cooking wine
- 3g salt
- 8g sugar
- 5g minced ginger or 2 teaspoons ginger powder
- 1 tablespoon five-spice powder
Massage the marinade into the ribs for better absorption, then refrigerate overnight.
Step 5: In a mixing bowl, combine cornstarch, glutinous rice flour, rice flour, wheat starch, baking soda, and baking powder. Coat the marinated ribs with this mixture and let them rest for 5 minutes.
Step 6: Air-fry at 375°F for 15 minutes, adding extra time if needed until the ribs are golden and crispy.
Step 7: Heat oil in a pan over medium heat. Stir-fry the reserved minced garlic and chili peppers until golden and fragrant.
Step 8: Transfer the air-fried ribs to the pan and toss to coat them evenly with the garlic and chili mixture.
Ready to Serve! Enjoy these crispy, flavorful pork ribs hot and fresh!
