Sweet pickled watermelon pairs perfectly with hearty country-style ribs—you need to try it to believe it! Country-Style Ribs With Quick-Pickled Watermelon is an exceptional dish that combines the robust flavors of grilled pork with the refreshing zest of pickled watermelon. This recipe is perfect for summer gatherings, barbecues, or a cozy family dinner. The unique combination will have your guests raving and asking for seconds!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Delicious Flavor Combination: The sweet and tangy quick-pickled watermelon complements the savory ribs beautifully.
- Easy Preparation: With a straightforward marinade and grilling method, this dish is beginner-friendly yet delivers impressive results.
- Versatile Serving Options: Great for summer barbecues or holiday feasts, these ribs can be served as a main course or sliced for sandwiches.
- Fresh Ingredients: Using fresh watermelon and tomatoes not only enhances the flavor but also adds a burst of color to your plate.
- Dairy-Free Delight: Perfect for those following a dairy-free diet, this recipe ensures everyone can enjoy it.
Tools and Preparation
To make this delightful dish, having the right tools will make the process smoother. Here’s what you’ll need.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Large resealable plastic bag
- Small saucepan
- Medium bowl
- Grill (charcoal or gas)
- Baking sheet
Importance of Each Tool
- Large resealable plastic bag: Ideal for marinating the ribs thoroughly while minimizing mess.
- Small saucepan: Perfect for making sauces and dressings without excess cleanup.
- Grill: Provides that delicious charred flavor essential for cooking country-style ribs.
Ingredients
Sweet pickled watermelon pairs perfectly with hearty country-style ribs—you need to try it to believe it!
For the Marinade
- ½ cup (packed; about 3 ounces) light brown sugar or palm sugar
- ½ cup soy sauce
- ¼ cup unseasoned rice vinegar
- 3 scallions, thinly sliced
- 6 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 tablespoons minced peeled ginger (from one 2×1-inch piece)
- 1 tablespoon chopped cilantro leaves
- 1 tablespoon hot chili paste (such as sambal oelek)
- 1 tablespoon toasted sesame oil
- 1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- ½ medium onion, sliced
- 3 pounds (1-inch-thick) country-style pork ribs or bone-in pork chops
For the Dressing
- 2 tablespoons Chinese hot mustard powder
- 1 teaspoon coriander seeds
- ⅓ cup Champagne vinegar or white wine vinegar
- 2 tablespoons fresh lime juice
- 1 tablespoon finely chopped shallot
- 1 teaspoon honey
- ½ cup olive oil
For the Salad
- Kosher salt, freshly ground pepper
- 5 cups coarsely chopped seedless watermelon (cut from half a 6- to 7-pound watermelon)
- 4 cups Sun Gold or cherry tomatoes (about 1¼ pounds), halved
- ¼ cup cilantro leaves with tender stems plus more for garnish
How to Make Country-Style Ribs With Quick-Pickled Watermelon
Step 1: Make the Marinade
First, create your marinade.
1. In a small saucepan, bring brown sugar and ½ cup water to a boil while stirring until dissolved.
2. Reduce heat to medium and simmer until reduced to ¼ cup. Transfer this mixture to a medium bowl.
3. Whisk in soy sauce and the next eight ingredients (scallions through onion). Let cool before pouring into a large resealable plastic bag.
Step 2: Marinate the Ribs
Next, prepare your ribs.
1. Rub the country-style ribs with mustard powder.
2. Add them to the marinade in the bag; seal tightly and turn to coat.
3. Place this bag in a baking dish and chill for at least 6 hours, preferably overnight.
Step 3: Prepare the Dressing
Now it’s time for the dressing.
1. In a small saucepan over low heat, toast coriander seeds until fragrant—about 2-3 minutes.
2. Transfer seeds to a baking sheet and crush slightly with a cool skillet.
3. In a small bowl, combine crushed coriander with vinegar, lime juice, shallot, and honey; whisk in olive oil. Season with salt and pepper.
Step 4: Pickle the Watermelon
Prepare your salad by pickling watermelon.
1. Place chopped watermelon in a large bowl; add ½ cup of vinaigrette and toss well.
2. Cover and chill for up to one hour while tossing occasionally.
Step 5: Grill the Ribs
Get ready to grill!
1. Build a medium fire in your charcoal grill or heat your gas grill to medium-high.
2. Remove ribs from marinade, allowing some of it to cling on.
3. Pour remaining marinade into a medium saucepan; bring it to boil before reducing heat and simmering for three minutes—set aside.
Step 6: Cook on the Grill
Cook those delicious ribs!
1. Grill the ribs until nicely charred—around five minutes per side.
2. Dunk each rib into reserved marinade using tongs before returning them to grill; cook turning once until medium-well—approximately two minutes per side.
Step 7: Prepare Tomato Salad
While grilling:
1. Toss halved cherry tomatoes with remaining cilantro and vinaigrette in a medium bowl; season with salt and pepper.
Step 8: Assemble Your Dish
Finally, put everything together:
1. Top grilled ribs with pickled watermelon.
2. Scatter tomato mixture over them and garnish generously with more cilantro.
3. Serve immediately while passing remaining vinaigrette alongside for drizzling over if desired.
Enjoy your delightful Country-Style Ribs With Quick-Pickled Watermelon!
How to Serve Country-Style Ribs With Quick-Pickled Watermelon
Serving country-style ribs with quick-pickled watermelon is a delightful way to enhance your meal’s flavor and presentation. These tender, juicy ribs paired with the refreshing sweetness of pickled watermelon create a perfect contrast that will impress your guests.
On a Platter
- Arrange the grilled ribs on a large platter. Drizzle with extra vinaigrette for added flavor.
With Fresh Herbs
- Garnish the ribs with additional cilantro leaves or other fresh herbs to bring out the vibrant flavors and add a pop of color.
Accompanied by Pickled Watermelon
- Serve each rib topped with quick-pickled watermelon chunks for an attractive and tasty touch that complements the savory meat.
With Tomato Salad
- Place a side of the tomato mixture next to the ribs. This adds freshness and balances out the richness of the pork.
How to Perfect Country-Style Ribs With Quick-Pickled Watermelon
Perfecting country-style ribs with quick-pickled watermelon involves attention to detail and some helpful tips for the best results.
- Marinate Longer: The longer you marinate the ribs, the more flavorful they become. Aim for at least 6 hours, but overnight is even better.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh herbs and vegetables enhance flavor significantly. Use fresh scallions, ginger, and cilantro for optimum taste.
- Grill at Medium Heat: Cooking on medium heat allows the ribs to cook evenly without burning. This ensures they remain juicy inside while getting a nice char.
- Baste While Grilling: Basting the ribs with reserved marinade while grilling keeps them moist and adds layers of flavor.
- Rest Before Serving: Letting the grilled ribs rest for a few minutes before serving helps retain their juices, leading to a more succulent bite.
- Taste as You Go: Adjust seasoning in your vinaigrette or pickling mixture according to your preference. A little more salt or lime juice can make a big difference.
Best Side Dishes for Country-Style Ribs With Quick-Pickled Watermelon
Pairing side dishes with country-style ribs enhances your meal experience. Here are some great options that complement these flavors beautifully.
- Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw adds crunch and acidity that balances the richness of the ribs.
- Grilled Vegetables: Seasonal grilled vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or asparagus provide a healthy and colorful addition.
- Cornbread: Sweet cornbread pairs wonderfully with savory meats, making it an ideal side option.
- Potato Salad: A creamy potato salad offers comfort and richness that pairs well with grilled meats.
- Rice Pilaf: Fluffy rice pilaf seasoned with herbs can soak up any delicious juices from the ribs.
- Baked Beans: Sweet and smoky baked beans are a classic BBQ side that complements pork beautifully.
- Garlic Bread: Crunchy garlic bread can be used to mop up any leftover marinade or sauce on your plate.
- Pickles: A variety of pickles add an extra zing that contrasts nicely with sweet pickled watermelon.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When preparing Country-Style Ribs With Quick-Pickled Watermelon, it’s easy to make some common mistakes. Here are some tips to ensure your dish turns out perfectly.
- Skipping the Marinade Time: Not allowing the ribs to marinate long enough can result in less flavor. Aim for at least 6 hours, but overnight is best for maximum taste.
- Using Too Much Sugar: Overdoing it with sugar can make your marinade overly sweet. Stick to the recommended measurements for a balanced flavor.
- Ignoring Resting Time: Cutting into the ribs immediately after grilling can cause juices to escape. Let them rest for a few minutes before serving to keep them tender and juicy.
- Overcooking the Ribs: Cooking the ribs too long can make them tough and dry. Use a meat thermometer to ensure they reach medium doneness without going over.
- Forgetting to Toss Watermelon: Neglecting to toss the watermelon with vinaigrette can lead to uneven pickling. Make sure each piece is coated for consistent flavor.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftover ribs in an airtight container.
- Keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- For best quality, consume within this time frame.
Freezing Country-Style Ribs With Quick-Pickled Watermelon
- Wrap ribs tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
- Place in a freezer-safe bag or container.
- They can be frozen for up to 3 months; however, use sooner for optimal taste.
Reheating Country-Style Ribs With Quick-Pickled Watermelon
- Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Place ribs on a baking sheet and cover with foil. Heat for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through.
- Microwave: Use a microwave-safe dish and cover with a lid or plastic wrap (vented). Heat on medium power for 1-2 minutes, checking midway.
- Stovetop: In a skillet over low heat, add a splash of water or broth and cover. Heat until warmed through, about 5-10 minutes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use other types of ribs?
Yes! While country-style ribs are recommended, you could substitute with baby back ribs or spare ribs as well.
How do I make quick-pickled watermelon?
Quick-pickled watermelon is made by tossing watermelon pieces with vinaigrette and letting them sit for about an hour before serving.
What sides pair well with Country-Style Ribs With Quick-Pickled Watermelon?
Consider serving coleslaw, cornbread, or grilled vegetables alongside these flavorful ribs for a complete meal.
Can I prepare this recipe ahead of time?
Absolutely! Marinate the ribs the night before and prepare the pickled watermelon earlier in the day for convenience.
Final Thoughts
Country-Style Ribs With Quick-Pickled Watermelon offer a delightful mix of sweet and savory flavors that are perfect for summer gatherings. This dish is not only easy to prepare but also versatile—feel free to customize it by adding your favorite herbs or spices. Enjoy this delicious recipe that will surely impress your family and friends!
Country-Style Ribs With Quick-Pickled Watermelon
Indulge in the perfect summer dish with Country-Style Ribs With Quick-Pickled Watermelon. This delightful recipe marries the rich, smoky flavors of grilled pork ribs with the refreshing sweetness of pickled watermelon, creating a unique flavor experience that will leave your guests craving more. Ideal for backyard barbecues or cozy family dinners, this dish is not only easy to prepare but also visually stunning, thanks to its vibrant colors. The quick-pickled watermelon adds a zesty twist that beautifully complements the savory meat, making it a must-try for any occasion.
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: Serves 6
Ingredients
- 3 pounds country-style pork ribs
- ½ cup light brown sugar
- ½ cup soy sauce
- ¼ cup unseasoned rice vinegar
- 3 scallions, thinly sliced
- 6 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 tablespoons minced peeled ginger
- 1 tablespoon chopped cilantro leaves
- 1 tablespoon hot chili paste
- 1 tablespoon toasted sesame oil
- 1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- ½ medium onion, sliced
- 2 tablespoons Chinese hot mustard powder
- 1 teaspoon coriander seeds
- ⅓ cup Champagne vinegar or white wine vinegar
- 2 tablespoons fresh lime juice
- 1 tablespoon finely chopped shallot
- 1 teaspoon honey
- ½ cup olive oil
- 5 cups coarsely chopped seedless watermelon
- 4 cups Sun Gold or cherry tomatoes, halved
- ¼ cup cilantro leaves with tender stems
Instructions
- Prepare the marinade by mixing brown sugar, soy sauce, rice vinegar, scallions, garlic, ginger, cilantro, chili paste, sesame oil, black pepper, and onion in a bowl.
- Coat the ribs with mustard powder and marinate in the mixture overnight.
- Make the dressing by toasting coriander seeds and combining them with vinegar, lime juice, shallot, honey, and olive oil.
- Pickle watermelon by tossing it with vinaigrette and chilling for one hour.
- Grill marinated ribs until charred and cooked through.
- Serve grilled ribs topped with pickled watermelon and tomato salad.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 rib (approximately 150g)
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 12g
- Sodium: 720mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 22g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 23g
- Cholesterol: 85mg
Keywords: For maximum flavor, marinate the ribs overnight. Experiment with different herbs or spices to customize your dish. Ensure even cooking by maintaining medium heat on the grill.
