Chinese Spareribs With Napa Cabbage Recipe

Ingredients

1 tablespoon five-spice powder 

1/8 teaspoon cayenne pepper 

Coarse salt and ground pepper 

1 rack pork spareribs (about 3 pounds), trimmed 

1 head napa cabbage, shredded 

2 tablespoons rice vinegar 

2 teaspoons toasted sesame oil 

1/4 cup hoisin sauce, plus more for dipping 

2 scallions, thinly sliced, for garnish 

Preparation

In a small bowl, whisk together five-spice powder, cayenne, 1 teaspoon salt, and 1/8 teaspoon pepper. Rub meaty side of ribs with spice mixture, patting to adhere.

In a shallow 2-quart microwave-safe dish, arrange rack, standing with rib ends upward (the natural curve will keep it upright). Microwave on high, uncovered, until pork is opaque throughout, 20 to 25 minutes. Remove from microwave; tent with foil. Set aside.

In a large bowl, toss together cabbage, vinegar, and oil. Season with salt and pepper. Cut rack between bones to separate ribs; brush with hoisin sauce. Garnish with scallions, and serve with napa cabbage and more hoisin sauce for dipping.