Ingredients

  • 2 1/2 lbs spareribs
  • 8 garlic cloves
  • 2 shallots
  • 1 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 3 tablespoons sugar
  • 2 tablespoons fish sauce (nouc cham)
  • 1 tablespoon dry white wine
  • 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
  • 1 teaspoon dried lemon grass (if you have fresh lemongrass use a little more)

Method

  • preheat oven to 500°F.
  • Starting on one end of the ribs pull off the thin membrane that covers the bones and the flap of meat on the underside of the ribs.
  • Use a knife to help loosen any stubborn spots.
  • Then trim as much fat as you can from the ribs and cut down between the bones to separate the ribs.
  • In a mortar, pound together the garlic, shallots, pepper and salt.
  • Stir in the sugar, fish sauce, lemongrass, wine and oil.
  • Arrange the ribs in a single layer on a shallow dish.
  • Pour the marinade over them and coat well.
  • Marinate in room temperature for at least 3 hours or, covered, in the refrigerator overnight.
  • Put the ribs on a large baking pan and roast on the top shelf until crusty and dark, about 30 minutes.
  • serve hot or at room temperature.