How Chinese Chef Cooks Steamed Pork Ribs With Pumpkin

Tender Pork Ribs Steamed to Perfection with Pumpkin

In this video, a skilled Chinese chef demonstrates the art of preparing a classic Cantonese dish – steamed pork ribs with pumpkin. This comforting yet elegant recipe showcases the harmonious flavors of succulent pork and the natural sweetness of fresh pumpkin.

The chef begins by carefully selecting high-quality pork ribs, trimming them to the desired size, and blanching them briefly to remove any impurities. The ribs are then arranged in a traditional bamboo steamer basket, nestled alongside chunks of fresh pumpkin.

With deft hands, the chef prepares an aromatic sauce blend that infuses the dish with the quintessential flavors of Cantonese cuisine. Premium soy sauce, rice wine, sesame oil, and a touch of sugar are expertly combined to create a marinade that adds depth and richness to the dish.

As the bamboo steamer is placed over simmering water, the chef shares insights into the importance of precise steaming times and temperatures, ensuring that the pork ribs achieve the perfect tenderness while the pumpkin pieces retain their vibrant color and texture.

Throughout the steaming process, the chef periodically bastes the ribs and pumpkin with the flavorful sauce, allowing the ingredients to absorb the complex flavors fully. The steaming technique not only retains the natural juices but also creates a delightful interplay between the savory pork and the subtly sweet pumpkin.

Once cooked to perfection, the chef artfully plates the steamed pork ribs and pumpkin, garnishing the dish with fresh scallions and a drizzle of the remaining sauce. This video offers a front-row seat to witness the mastery of Cantonese culinary techniques, showcasing the harmonious blend of flavors and textures that make this dish a true classic.

Here's the full recipe for Steamed Pork Ribs with Pumpkin:
Ingredients:

1 lb pork ribs, chopped into small pieces (leave membrane on)
1 tsp baking soda
1 small pumpkin, peeled and chopped into chunks
1 tsp salt
1 tsp white pepper
2 tsp sugar
1 tsp chicken bouillon powder
2 tbsp oyster sauce
2 tbsp soy sauce
1 tsp sesame oil
2 tbsp Chinese rice wine
1 tbsp olive oil
1 tsp bean sauce
1 tsp hoisin sauce
1 tsp cornstarch
Chopped chilies (optional)
Chopped scallions for garnish

Instructions:

1. In a bowl, toss the chopped pork ribs with 1 tsp baking soda and mix well. Let it rest for 30 minutes to remove impurities. Rinse the ribs several times under running water and drain.
2. Arrange the chopped pumpkin pieces in a shallow dish or plate to create a base.
3. In a separate bowl, prepare the marinade by mixing together salt, white pepper, sugar, chicken bouillon powder, oyster sauce, soy sauce, sesame oil, rice wine, olive oil, bean sauce, and hoisin sauce. Whisk in the cornstarch to thicken the marinade slightly.
4. Add the rinsed pork ribs to the marinade and toss to coat evenly. If using chilies, add them to the mixture.
5. Place the marinated pork ribs on top of the pumpkin pieces in the dish. Cover tightly with cling wrap and let it marinate for a few hours in the refrigerator.
6. When ready to cook, remove the cling wrap and place the dish in a steamer basket. Position the basket over a wok or pot filled with simmering water.
7. Steam the pork ribs and pumpkin on high heat for 15-20 minutes, or until the ribs are cooked through and tender. The exact cooking time may vary depending on the size of the rib pieces.
8. Once steamed, remove the dish from the steamer and garnish with chopped scallions.
9. Serve hot, with steamed rice on the side.

Enjoy this flavorful and comforting Cantonese dish of steamed pork ribs with pumpkin!