SUON RAM - Vietnamese Braised Spareribs

1. In a small pot, add your spare ribs and fill the pot with enough cold water to cover the spare ribs. Bring that pot to a boil on high heat for about 5 minutes or until the water starts to boil. Drain and clean your spare ribs with clean water to remove any impurities. Pat dry and set aside.
2. In a mixing bowl, add your spare ribs and marinate fish sauce, lemongrass, chicken powder, 1/2 tsp sugar, garlic, and dark soy sauce. Allow to marinate for at least 1 hour (or overnight is best).
3. Before cooking, be sure to take the spare ribs out at least 1 hour from the fridge (if marinating overnight) to ensure it reaches room temp.
4. In a pot, you want to add 2 tbsp of oil and 2 tbsp of sugar on medium-high heat. Allow the sugar to melt and start to caramelize and turn a dark brown color (but not burnt!). This part can be tricky to time so keep an eye out!
5. Once the sugar has turned a dark brown caramel color, add your marinated spare ribs. Stir to combine quickly for 30 seconds.
6. Add enough water to cover half the ribs. Lower the heat to simmer.
7. Simmer for 30 minutes - make sure you stir every 5 mins for the ribs to cook evenly.
8. After 30 minutes, the liquid should've reduced. Garnish with green onions and turn off the heat.
9. Serve hot with a side of rice. Super easy and tasty dinner meal!