Ingredients

For the Marinated Pork Ribs:

• 3 kg pork ribs
• 2 onions
• 1 hot pepper
• 5 cloves of garlic
• 2 tablespoons of salt
• 1 tablespoon coriander
• 1 tablespoon black pepper
• 1 tablespoon ground peppers (red and black mix)
• 1 sprig of rosemary
• 3-4 tablespoons vegetable oil

For the Roasted Potatoes:

• 3 potatoes
• Salt to taste
• Black pepper to taste
• Basil to taste
• 3-4 tablespoons vegetable oil

Steps on How to Do It

Step 1: Prepare the Pork Ribs

1. Clean and trim the ribs: Start by removing the membrane (film) from the back of the ribs. This will allow the marinade to penetrate the meat better and ensure that the ribs cook evenly.
2. Make cuts on the ribs: Using a sharp knife, make small, shallow cuts along the ribs. This helps the marinade absorb into the meat, resulting in better flavor.

Step 2: Prepare the Marinade

1. Chop and blend the ingredients: Roughly chop the onions, hot pepper, and garlic. Add them to a blender or food processor, along with 2 tablespoons of salt, 1 tablespoon of coriander, 1 tablespoon of black pepper, 1 tablespoon of ground peppers, a sprig of rosemary, and 3-4 tablespoons of vegetable oil. Blend the mixture until smooth.
2. Coat the ribs with marinade: Rub the marinade all over the pork ribs, ensuring both sides are well covered. Massage the sauce into the cuts you made earlier for maximum flavor.
3. Marinate the ribs: Place the marinated ribs in a dish, cover them with cling film, and let them marinate for at least 3-4 hours. For the best results, marinate overnight to allow the flavors to penetrate deeply.

Step 3: Prepare for Baking

1. Preheat your oven: Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F) as you prepare the ribs for baking.
2. Tie the ribs: If desired, tie the ribs with kitchen twine to help them hold their shape while baking. This step is optional but adds a professional touch.
3. Prepare a baking tray: Line a large baking tray with baking paper and place the marinated ribs on it.

Step 4: Season and Add the Potatoes

1. Prepare the potatoes: Peel and cut the potatoes into medium-sized chunks. In a bowl, mix the potatoes with salt, black pepper, basil, and 3-4 tablespoons of vegetable oil.
2. Arrange the potatoes: Place the seasoned potatoes in the middle of the baking tray, surrounding the ribs.

Step 5: Bake the Ribs and Potatoes

1. Cover with foil: Cover the baking tray with aluminum foil to trap the steam and keep the ribs moist while they bake.
2. Bake for 2 hours: Bake the ribs and potatoes at 180°C (350°F) for 2 hours. This slow cooking process will ensure the meat becomes tender and flavorful.
3. Remove the foil and baste: After 2 hours, remove the foil and brush the ribs with a little vegetable oil to help them brown and crisp up.
4. Bake for an additional 15-20 minutes: Return the uncovered ribs and potatoes to the oven and bake for another 15-20 minutes, or until the ribs are golden brown and the potatoes are crispy on the outside and soft on the inside.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

Once the ribs are perfectly cooked and the potatoes are golden and tender, remove the baking tray from the oven. Let the ribs rest for a few minutes before serving. Serve hot and enjoy your flavorful and hearty meal!

Nutritional Facts (Per Serving)

The following is an approximate nutritional breakdown per serving (based on 6 servings):

• Calories: 650 kcal
• Protein: 40g
• Fat: 45g
• Carbohydrates: 25g
• Fiber: 3g
• Sodium: 1600mg
• Cholesterol: 180mg

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I use another cut of pork for this recipe?

Yes, you can use pork shoulder or pork belly for a similar result. However, pork ribs are ideal for this recipe due to their tenderness and flavor.

2. What if I don’t have time to marinate overnight?

If you’re short on time, marinate the ribs for at least 3-4 hours. The longer you marinate, the more flavorful the ribs will be, but even a few hours will infuse a good amount of flavor.

3. Can I use other vegetables instead of potatoes?

Absolutely! You can use other root vegetables such as carrots, parsnips, or sweet potatoes, which will also absorb the flavors from the ribs.

4. How do I know when the ribs are done?

The ribs are done when they are tender, and the meat easily pulls away from the bone. You can also check the internal temperature, which should be at least 145°F (63°C) for pork.

Tips for Making Perfect Pork Ribs

• Marinate overnight: If possible, marinate the ribs overnight for the best flavor. The longer they sit, the more time the spices and seasonings have to penetrate the meat.
• Don’t rush the cooking: Slow cooking the ribs at a lower temperature ensures they stay tender and juicy. If you rush the process by turning up the heat, you risk drying out the meat.
• Use fresh herbs: Fresh rosemary adds a wonderful aroma to the dish, but you can also experiment with thyme, oregano, or sage for a different flavor profile.

Storage Tips

• Refrigeration: Store any leftover ribs and potatoes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 160°C (320°F) until warmed through.
• Freezing: If you want to freeze the cooked ribs, wrap them tightly in foil and place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be frozen for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.

Conclusion

Oven-baked marinated pork ribs with roasted potatoes is a flavorful and satisfying dish that’s sure to impress. The tender pork ribs, marinated in a mix of spices and herbs, combined with crispy, seasoned potatoes, make for a hearty and delicious meal. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or a special gathering, this recipe is guaranteed to be a hit.

Try it out, and don’t forget to make the experience your own by adding your favorite herbs and spices. Bon Appétit!