When purchasing pork ribs, prioritize those with a natural pinkish-red hue, a dry surface, and a non-sticky texture when pressed. Avoid ribs that appear pale, feel sticky, or emit an unusual odor, as these are likely old and won’t taste good even when thoroughly cooked.
A common mistake is either directly stewing the ribs or blanching them too briefly in boiling water. According to experienced chefs, neither method is optimal. Direct stewing causes residual blood in the bones to mix with the broth, resulting in an unpleasant odor. Quick blanching fails to thoroughly clean the meat or tenderize it effectively.
The correct approach is to soak the ribs in cold water mixed with baking soda before blanching. Baking soda’s mild alkalinity helps draw out excess blood from the bones and tenderizes the meat faster. This ensures a clear, sweet, and non-fishy broth when cooking.
Below is a simple recipe for stewed pork ribs with white radish, ensuring tender ribs without any odor and a clear broth:
Ingredients
– Pork ribs: approximately 1kg.
– White radish: approximately 750g.
– Baking soda: 3g.
– Ginger: 10g.
– Salt, white wine, white pepper, green onions: as needed.
Instructions
Step 1: Soak the ribs
Cut the ribs into bite-sized pieces, place them in a bowl of cold water with baking soda, stir well, and soak for about 1 hour. Then, drain and pat dry.

Step 2: Blanch the ribs
Place the ribs in a pot of cold water, bring to a boil for 5-7 minutes. Skim off any foam, boil for a few more minutes, then remove and rinse with warm water to eliminate any residue.
Step 3: Sauté the ribs to remove odor
Heat a little oil in a pan, add the ribs and ginger, and stir-fry over high heat until the ribs are firm. Drizzle a tablespoon of white wine around the pan, stir for 30 seconds, then turn off the heat. This step enhances the aroma and eliminates any lingering odors.
Step 4: Prepare the radish
Peel the radish, wash it, and cut it into diagonally sliced pieces for quicker softening and an appealing presentation.
Step 5: Stew the soup
Add the ribs, radish, and enough water to the pot, and simmer over medium heat for about 45 minutes. Once the ribs and radish are tender, season with salt and white pepper, simmer for a few more minutes, then garnish with green onions and serve.

Soaking the ribs with baking soda is the key to a clear, sweet, and non-fishy broth. This small extra step significantly enhances the quality of the dish.

“The Ultimate Guide to Choosing the Perfect Pork Ribs and Hock”
Pork ribs and trotters are versatile and beloved ingredients in many cuisines across the globe. They offer a unique culinary experience, with their tender meat and rich, flavorful profiles. These cuts have a special place in the hearts of food enthusiasts, providing a canvas for an array of mouth-watering dishes.



































