Name: Salt and Pepper Oven-Baked Ribs with Spicy Chilli Topping Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 50 min
Cuisine: Chinese
Ingredients: 800 g pork ribs (around 7 ribs); 1 tsp salt; 1 tsp white pepper (or black pepper); 2 tsp Chinese five spice; 1 tsp dried chilli flakes; 1 tsp sugar; 1 green chilli, diced; 1 red chilli, diced; 3 garlic cloves, diced; 3 spring onions, diced; 1 tsp oil (for stir-frying)

Jump to Recipe· 3.9 from 14 reviews

If you love ribs that hit all the right notes—crispy edges, tender meat, and a burst of spicy flavor—then the Salt and Pepper Oven-Baked Ribs with Spicy Chilli Topping Recipe is going to become your new favorite. This dish brings together a simple but bold seasoning blend with a fresh, fiery chilli topping that perfectly complements the juicy pork ribs. It’s the kind of recipe that’s both comforting and exciting, making it ideal for a casual family dinner or impressing friends at your next gathering.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A white bowl holds four layers of spices arranged separately inside it. The top-left layer is white salt with a grainy texture. To the right of the salt is a layer of red chili flakes with yellow seeds, adding a rough and uneven texture. Below the chili flakes is a light beige powder with a smooth and fine texture. The last layer, positioned below the salt and to the left of the beige powder, is a brown spice with a coarse texture. The bowl sits on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

These ingredients are straightforward yet essential, creating a perfect balance of saltiness, heat, and aromatic depth that transforms everyday ribs into a tantalizing meal. Each component plays its part in building layers of flavor and texture.

800 g Pork Ribs: The star of the show, providing rich, tender meat that soaks up all the spices beautifully.

1 tsp Salt: Enhances the flavor of the ribs and balances out the spiciness.
1 tsp White Pepper: Offers a milder heat than black pepper, adding subtle warmth without overpowering.
2 tsp Chinese 5 Spice: Adds a complex, aromatic blend that lifts the taste with hints of anise and cinnamon.

1 tsp Dried Chilli Flakes: Gives a steady background heat that builds as you eat.
1 tsp Sugar: Balances out the spice with a touch of sweetness, promoting caramelization in the oven.
1 Green Chilli: Fresh and slightly sharp, it adds vibrant color and a lively kick to the topping.

1 Red Chilli: Brings bold heat and beautiful contrast to the green chilli, making the topping visually appealing.
3 Garlic Cloves: Infuses the dish with a deep, savory aroma that complements the spicy chilies.
3 Spring Onions: Provide a fresh, crunchy finish with a hint of mild onion flavor.

How to Make Salt and Pepper Oven-Baked Ribs with Spicy Chilli Topping Recipe

Step 1: Prep Your Ribs

Start by prepping the ribs to ensure they cook evenly and absorb all the wonderful spices. Cut the ribs if necessary to fit your baking tray and pat them dry to help the rub stick better.

Step 2: Get Your Oven Ready

Preheat your oven to 160°C (gas mark 3, 140°F fan). Line a baking tray with parchment paper or foil for easy cleanup and to prevent sticking—this little step saves a lot of hassle later!

Step 3: Make the Seasoning Mix

In a small bowl, combine salt, white pepper, Chinese 5 spice, dried chilli flakes, and sugar. Mix these together until evenly blended—this is the powerful flavor base for your ribs.

Step 4: Season Those Ribs

Rub your seasoning mix thoroughly onto both sides of the ribs. Don’t be shy with the rub; it’s what gives the meat that irresistible crust. Lay the ribs out on your prepared tray, making sure they’re spaced just right for even cooking.

Step 5: Bake to Perfection

Place the ribs in the oven and bake for 35 to 40 minutes. During this time, the seasoning will caramelize and the ribs will become tender, juicy, and packed with flavor.

Step 6: Dice the Topping Ingredients

While the ribs are cooking, finely dice the green chilli, red chilli, garlic cloves, and spring onions. Precision here means you’ll get the perfect texture and burst of freshness on each bite.

Step 7: Stir-Fry the Toppings

Heat a wok or frying pan over medium-high heat and add a teaspoon of oil. Toss in your diced green chillies, red chillies, garlic, and spring onions. Stir-fry quickly for 1 to 2 minutes until they soften and their aromas are released—a quick sizzle that brings the topping to life.

Step 8: Combine and Finish

Add the cooked ribs directly into the wok with the topping and give them a quick toss for about 30 seconds. This step ensures every bite has a spicy, garlicky kick. Alternatively, you can simply sprinkle the toppings over the ribs before serving if you prefer a fresher, crisper texture.

How to Serve Salt and Pepper Oven-Baked Ribs with Spicy Chilli Topping Recipe

A white plate holds a stack of well-cooked ribs arranged in layers, showing a dark brown, slightly crispy surface with visible seasoning bits like chopped green and red peppers and small pieces of garlic scattered on top. The ribs have charred edges and a textured, juicy look, with the bones peeking through. The plate is set on a white marbled surface, with a small part of green broccoli visible near the bottom left corner. The image has a close-up focus on the ribs, showing detailed texture and color. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

A sprinkle of freshly chopped coriander or extra spring onions can brighten the plate and add a flourish of fresh green that contrasts beautifully with the spicy chilli topping. A wedge of lime on the side offers a zesty finish that cuts through the richness delightfully.

Side Dishes

These ribs pair wonderfully with simple sides like steamed jasmine rice or a crunchy Asian slaw. The rice helps mellow out the spice, while a crisp slaw will add crunch and a refreshing tang that balances the deep, intense flavors of the ribs.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, serve the ribs on a wooden board with small bowls of extra spicy chilli topping and dipping sauces like hoisin or soy sauce. This encourages sharing and makes for a lively, communal meal. Wrapping individual ribs in lettuce leaves with the spicy topping inside creates a hand-held delight perfect for casual gatherings.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have leftovers of this Salt and Pepper Oven-Baked Ribs with Spicy Chilli Topping Recipe, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They’ll keep well for up to 3 days while maintaining their juicy texture and flavor.

Freezing

For longer storage, freeze the cooked ribs and chilli topping separately in freezer-safe containers. This method preserves their flavors best, and you can thaw them overnight in the fridge before reheating for an easy meal later.

Reheating

Gently reheat your ribs in a low oven at around 150°C (300°F) to keep them tender and avoid drying out. Warm the chilli topping in a pan with a splash of oil to revive its fresh, vibrant character before combining the two once more.

FAQs

Can I use black pepper instead of white pepper?

Absolutely! Black pepper has a slightly stronger, earthier flavor compared to white pepper, but it works well in this recipe if that’s what you have on hand.

Is it necessary to use Chinese 5 spice?

While Chinese 5 spice adds a unique aromatic touch to these ribs, you can skip it or substitute with a pinch of cinnamon and star anise if needed. The dish will still be delicious but with a slightly different flavor profile.

Can I make this recipe spicier?

Definitely! Adding more dried chilli flakes or extra fresh chillies to the topping will increase the heat level. Just remember to balance it with the sugar and salt to keep the flavors harmonious.

What’s the best cut of ribs to use?

All pork ribs work well here, but baby back ribs or St. Louis style ribs are especially tender and perfect for oven-baking. Choose ribs that have enough meat to absorb the seasoning but are not too fatty.

Can I prepare the spice rub in advance?

Yes, you can mix the salt, pepper, Chinese 5 spice, chilli flakes, and sugar ahead of time and store the blend in an airtight jar. This makes it super quick to season your ribs whenever hunger strikes!

Final Thoughts

This Salt and Pepper Oven-Baked Ribs with Spicy Chilli Topping Recipe is a beautiful blend of simplicity and boldness, perfect for anyone craving something flavorful and satisfying without spending hours in the kitchen. Once you try it, these ribs are bound to become a go-to recipe in your household. So, roll up your sleeves, fire up that oven, and get ready to enjoy one of the most deliciously addictive rib dishes out there!