Sweet sticky spicy ribs with red onion salad

Ingredients

For poaching the ribs

• 1.5kg/3lb 4oz meaty rack of pork spare ribs
• water, to cover
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 garlic cloves, lightly crushed
• ½ tsp black peppercorns

For the marinade

• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 2 onions, roughly chopped
• 4 garlic cloves, crushed
• 2 red chillies, finely chopped
• ½ tsp dried chilli flakes
• 2 tsp fennel seeds, crushed
• 110g/4oz dark brown sugar
• 600g/1lb 5oz tomato ketchup
• 110ml/4fl oz dark soy sauce

For the salad

• 2 red onions, finely sliced
• 6 tomatoes, cut into chunks
• 1 small bunch fresh flatleaf parsley, leaves only
• 3 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
• 1 tbsp red wine vinegar

Method

1. To poach the ribs, place the ribs into a large, wide saucepan or stockpot over a high heat. Cover with water and add the onion, garlic and peppercorns. Bring to the boil, then reduce the heat and simmer, covered, for one hour, or until the meat is tender.

2. Preheat the oven to 180C/455F/Gas 4.

3. For the marinade, heat a deep-sided frying pan until hot, then add the olive oil, onions and garlic. Fry for 4-5 minutes, or until the onion has softened.

4. Add the chillies, chilli flakes, fennel seeds and brown sugar and cook for a further 1-2 minutes, until the sugar has melted.

5. Add the tomato ketchup and soy sauce. Bring to the boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for ten minutes, until thickened. Remove from the heat and allow to cool slightly, then transfer to a food processor and blend to a smooth paste.

6. Remove the ribs from the poaching liquor and place onto a baking tray. Spoon the marinade over the ribs, turning to make sure they are completely coated. Place into the oven to roast for 15 minutes, or until sticky and heated through.

7. Remove from the oven and slice the rack into individual ribs.

8. For the salad, place the red onion, tomatoes and parsley leaves into a bowl.

9. Place the olive oil and vinegar into a separate bowl and whisk to combine. Pour the dressing over the salad and season, to taste, with salt and freshly ground black pepper.

10. To serve, place the ribs onto plates and place a portion of salad alongside.