How to Make Crispy Deep Fried Spare Ribs

Learn the secrets to making irresistibly crispy, juicy deep-fried spare ribs right in your kitchen. Perfectly seasoned, golden-brown, and bursting with flavor — this recipe will become your go-to favorite for gatherings or indulgent meals!

Discover the best recipe for crispy deep-fried spare ribs! Learn how to achieve crunchy perfection with simple ingredients and step-by-step instructions.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Craving something crispy, flavorful, and finger-licking good? These crispy deep-fried spare ribs are everything you dream of in a comfort meal. The satisfying crunch of the perfectly fried exterior paired with juicy, tender meat makes this dish an absolute showstopper. Whether you’re hosting a party, planning a weekend treat, or just want to impress your family, this recipe is a winner.

What makes it even better? It’s surprisingly easy to make at home — no fancy equipment required!

Ingredients You’ll Need
For the Ribs:

• 2 lbs pork spare ribs (cut into bite-sized pieces)

• 1 tbsp salt

• 1 tsp black pepper

• 1 tbsp garlic powder

• 1 tsp smoked paprika

• 1 tbsp soy sauce

• 1 tbsp rice vinegar (optional, for tenderness)

For the Coating:

• 1 cup cornstarch (for extra crispiness)

• ½ cup all-purpose flour

• 1 tsp baking powder (optional, for added crunch)

For Frying:

• Vegetable oil (for deep frying)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Ribs

Start by cleaning and drying the spare ribs with a paper towel. Removing excess moisture helps the seasoning stick better.

2. Season Generously

In a large bowl, mix the ribs with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, smoked paprika, soy sauce, and rice vinegar. Massage the seasoning into the meat to ensure every piece is well coated. Let the ribs marinate for at least 30 minutes — but if you have time, let them sit for 2 hours to deepen the flavor.

3. Coat for Crunch

In another bowl, combine cornstarch, flour, and baking powder. Dredge the marinated ribs in the flour mixture, ensuring each piece is evenly coated. Shake off excess flour for a light, crispy finish.

4. Heat the Oil

In a deep pot or skillet, heat the vegetable oil to 350°F (175°C). Use a thermometer for accuracy — if the oil is too hot, the ribs will burn on the outside before cooking through.

5. Fry to Perfection

Carefully place the coated ribs into the hot oil in batches. Avoid overcrowding the pot, as this can lower the oil temperature and lead to soggy ribs. Fry for 8–10 minutes, turning occasionally, until golden brown and crispy.

Tip: Double-fry the ribs for an extra-crispy texture! After the initial fry, let the ribs rest for a few minutes, then fry again for 3–4 minutes.

6. Drain and Serve

Once the ribs are perfectly crispy, remove them from the oil and place them on a wire rack or paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.

Serving Suggestions

Pair your crispy deep-fried spare ribs with a tangy dipping sauce like sweet chili, spicy mayo, or classic BBQ sauce. Add a side of fresh salad or steamed vegetables to balance the richness of the dish.

Want to take it up a notch? Serve the ribs with garlic fried rice or crispy fries for a complete feast!

Tips for Crispy Success

• Choose the Right Cut: Use pork spare ribs with a good meat-to-fat ratio for the juiciest results.

• Dry the Ribs Well: Moisture is the enemy of crispiness, so pat the ribs dry before seasoning.

• Use Cornstarch: This is the secret ingredient for that ultra-crispy crust!

• Monitor Oil Temperature: Keeping the oil between 350°F and 375°F is crucial for even cooking and crispiness.

Why Homemade Ribs Are Better

Sure, you could grab fried ribs from a restaurant, but nothing beats homemade. You control the seasoning, oil quality, and cooking time — ensuring a healthier, more satisfying dish. Plus, the joy of biting into a rib you made from scratch? Priceless.

Final Thoughts

Now that you know how to make crispy deep-fried spare ribs, it’s time to roll up your sleeves and give it a try. This recipe is a crowd-pleaser, perfect for game nights, weekend dinners, or whenever you crave a crunchy, meaty delight.

Once you taste that golden, crackly crust and juicy interior, you’ll never look back!
Ready to fry up some magic? Let me know how your ribs turn out in the comments — and don’t forget to share this recipe with fellow food lovers!