Crispy Fried Baby Back Ribs
When people think of baby back ribs, they usually think of slow smoked barbecue. Or, the annoyingly catchy Chili’s jingle. It seems the default method for rib cookery is always some version of barbecue – even if that means they’re slathered in BBQ sauce and thrown into a slow cooker. But, rib meat doesn’t always have to be cooked to the point where it will be denture friendly. In fact, many people prefer some texture and chew to their meat. After all, it’s meat – not marshmallow!
If you’re a texture fan, this will be your new favorite way to devour ribs. Golden deep fried ribs. Ribs reminiscent of crunchy crackling nuggets. Heaven. A light coating of flour gives just the right crunch, and the quick cook time leaves the baby backs with a slight chew similar to perfectly roasted pork belly.
Crispy and crunchy with the perfect amount of chew, and ready in just seven minutes.
- 2 racks baby back ribs (Times Right sells Behrmann Baby Back Ribs)
- 8 cups 8–10 of frying oil (peanut is best)
- 1 cup all purpose flour
- 1 cup rice flour (see note 1)
- 1 tablespoon five spice powder
- 4 teaspoons kosher salt, divided
- Place the oil into a large heavy based pot or deep fryer, and heat to 375f.
- Use a sharp knife to cut the racks of ribs between the bones, to create individual ribs. Season the ribs with 2 teaspoons of salt.
- In a shallow bowl, place the AP and rice flour, along with the five spice and remaining salt.
- When the oil is at temperature, drop a rib into the flour to coat on all sides. Shake off excess, then gently lower into the oil. Work in batches to avoid overcrowding the pot. Cook ribs for 7 minutes until deep golden brown. Remove using a spider or tongs, and place on paper towel to drain.
- Wait for oil to return to optimal temperature between batches. You can keep the ribs warm on a rack in a 200f oven while cooking remaining batches.
- Serve immediately with optional sweet chili dipping sauce.
Note 1: rice flour helps to create a super crisp shell. You can find it in Asian markets or online. If you can’t get your hands on it, you can just use AP flour for the entire coating.