Braised Pork Ribs with Tofu (Sườn Non Kho Đậu Hũ)

In Vietnamese cuisine, there’s a term we often use for dishes that pair perfectly with rice – món hao cơm. These dishes are so full of flavour and comforting that you can’t help but reach for an extra serving of steamed rice. Braised Pork Ribs with Tofu (Sườn Non Kho Đậu Hũ) is one of those món hao cơm classics.

This dish brings together tender pork ribs, golden fried tofu, and a savoury, slightly sweet sauce infused with coconut juice. The result is a hearty and satisfying meal that’s perfect for family dinners or when you’re craving something warm and comforting.

The best part? It’s simple and super easy to make! With just a few ingredients and straightforward steps, you can recreate this delicious Vietnamese staple in your own kitchen. Serve it hot with a bowl of rice, and watch how quickly it disappears from the table!

Q&As on Braised Pork Ribs with Tofu

1. Which cut of pork ribs is best for this recipe?

For Braised Pork Ribs with Tofu, the best cut is one with a good balance of fat, cartilage, and meat. Spareribs or short ribs are ideal because their fat content and connective tissue add flavour and richness to the dish as it braises.

If you prefer a leaner option, baby back ribs can work, but the dish may not be as tender or flavourful. Ask your butcher for ribs that are cut into smaller pieces, about 2-3 inches long, for easier cooking and serving.

Remember, the right cut of ribs makes all the difference in achieving that melt-in-your-mouth texture!

2. Where did you get these fried tofu? They look so nice!

These tofu pieces were freshly fried when I got them from a to-go Vietnamese food shop. These shops are the best place to find tofu with the perfect balance of tenderness and texture, making them ideal for this recipe.

If you don’t have access to those food shops, the tofu available at Asian markets is still a good option, though it might not be as tender or consistent. If you end up with soft tofu, you’ll need to fry it first to firm it up before cooking it with the pork ribs. Also, remember to adjust the cooking time accordingly, as softer tofu may break down faster in the braising process.

Freshly fried tofu makes a noticeable difference in the texture and flavour of this dish, so it’s worth seeking out if you can!

3. Is tofu good for you?

Yes, tofu is a nutritious and versatile food that can be very good for you! It’s made from soybeans and is an excellent source of plant-based protein, making it a great option for vegetarians, vegans, and anyone looking to reduce their intake of animal products.

Tofu is low in calories and contains important nutrients like calcium, iron, magnesium, and several B vitamins. It’s also rich in isoflavones, which are natural compounds linked to potential health benefits, such as supporting heart health and promoting healthy bones.

However, like any food, it’s best enjoyed as part of a balanced diet. Choose minimally processed tofu without added preservatives or flavourings for the healthiest option. And for dishes like Braised Pork Ribs with Tofu, it not only adds nutrition but also beautifully absorbs the flavours of the sauce!

4. I don’t have coconut juice. Can I just use water or chicken stock instead?

Yes, you can absolutely use water or chicken stock as a substitute for coconut juice in this recipe. Chicken stock, in particular, will add a savoury depth of flavour, while water provides a neutral base.

If you’d like to thicken the sauce a bit, you can add a small amount of cornstarch dissolved in water near the end of cooking. Just be sure to adjust the seasoning as needed, since the lack of coconut juice may require a little more salt or fish sauce to balance the flavours.

The dish will still turn out delicious, even without coconut juice!

5. I don’t have pork ribs, but do have pork belly. Can I use pork belly instead?

Yes, you can definitely use pork belly instead of pork ribs for this recipe!

Cut the pork belly into bite-sized pieces and marinate it using the same ingredients as for the pork ribs. Since pork belly is naturally more tender than ribs, the cooking time might be a bit shorter, so keep an eye on it to avoid overcooking.

Using pork belly can make this dish incredibly delicious, with its rich and melt-in-your-mouth texture adding a new dimension to the flavours. It’s a great alternative!