Crispy Deep Fried Spare Ribs are a delightful treat, offering an irresistible combination of crunchy exterior and juicy meat. These savory bites make for a fantastic appetizer or main dish that will leave everyone asking for seconds. The deep frying technique ensures a satisfying crispiness while locking in the flavors of the spices and seasonings. Perfect for gatherings or cozy family dinners, this recipe brings comfort food to a whole new level.
Why Make This Crispy Deep Fried Spare Ribs
Making Crispy Deep Fried Spare Ribs at home allows you to enjoy a timeless recipe that’s normally reserved for restaurant menus. The great thing about this recipe is its simplicity and the mouthwatering results. The combination of spices adds a rich flavor that perfectly complements the tender meat. Plus, the deep frying method creates a crispy texture that will have you coming back for more. It’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that’s perfect for game days, parties, or just a fun dinner at home.
How to Make Crispy Deep Fried Spare Ribs
Cooking these spare ribs involves a few straightforward steps that let the flavors shine and the texture become unbelievably crisp. First, marinate the ribs with a blend of seasonings that infuse the meat with depth and character. Then, prepare a coating that adds to the crunch. The frying process is crucial; it needs to be done at the right temperature to achieve that desired golden brown finish. Finally, serve them hot and watch them disappear!
Ingredients:
- 2 pounds spare ribs, cut into individual pieces
- 1 tablespoon garlic powder
- 1 tablespoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 cup cornstarch
- 1 cup buttermilk
- Oil for frying
Directions:
Marinate the Ribs: In a large bowl, combine garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, black pepper, and salt. Add the spare ribs and rub the spice mixture all over the meat. Let them marinate for at least 30 minutes, or refrigerate for a few hours for more intense flavor.
Prepare the Coating: In a separate bowl, mix the all-purpose flour and cornstarch.
Dip and Coat: Remove the marinated ribs from the bowl and dip each piece into the buttermilk, allowing any excess to drip off. Then, coat them in the flour and cornstarch mixture.
Fry the Ribs: Heat oil in a deep skillet or fryer to 350°F (175°C). Carefully place the coated ribs into the hot oil, frying them in batches for about 5-7 minutes or until they are golden brown and crispy.
Drain and Serve: Remove the ribs and place them on a paper towel-lined plate. Serve hot with your favorite dipping sauce.
Nutritional Information
- Calories: 320
- Total Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Carbohydrates: 22g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugars: 1g
- Protein: 16g
- Sodium: 700mg

How to Serve Crispy Deep Fried Spare Ribs
These tender, crispy ribs are perfect on their own, but they also pair wonderfully with various sides. Serve them alongside coleslaw, potato wedges, or a hearty salad for a complete meal. For a more festive touch, consider adding dips like honey mustard, spicy barbecue sauce, or even a zesty ranch dressing. They’re also great for finger food at parties, so don’t hesitate to present them on a platter with toothpicks for easy eating!
How to Store Crispy Deep Fried Spare Ribs
To keep leftover ribs fresh, allow them to cool completely before storing. Place them in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. For longer storage, you can freeze them for up to 2 months. To reheat, simply air fry or bake them in the oven until heated through, ensuring you regain that crispy texture.
Expert Tips for Perfect Crispy Deep Fried Spare Ribs
- Marination Time: For deeper flavor, let the ribs marinate overnight. The spices will penetrate better and yield a more robust taste.
- Oil Temperature: Use a thermometer to maintain the oil temperature. If the oil is too hot, the exterior can burn before the meat cooks through, while too cool oil results in greasy ribs.
- Frying in Batches: Don’t overcrowd the pan. Frying in batches prevents the temperature from dropping, ensuring even cooking and perfect crispiness.
- Rest After Frying: Allowing the fried ribs to rest for a few minutes on paper towels helps soak up excess oil and keeps them crispy.
Delicious Variations
- Honey Glazed: Drizzle some honey over the fried ribs right before serving for a sweet touch that enhances the flavor.
- Spicy Kick: Add cayenne pepper or chili powder to the spice mix for an extra heat level.
- Asian-Inspired: Turn this into an Asian delight by marinating the ribs in soy sauce and sesame oil, and serving with a sweet chili sauce.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make these ribs in the oven instead of frying?
Absolutely! Season and coat as directed, then bake at 375°F (190°C) for about 30-40 minutes, flipping halfway for even crispiness.What dipping sauces go well with fried ribs?
Barbecue sauce, ranch dressing, or even a spicy sriracha dip work great!How do I ensure my ribs are tender?
Marinating helps tenderize the meat. You might also consider a slow-cooking method before frying to achieve great tenderness.Can I use other cuts of meat?
Yes, chicken wings or beef short ribs can make excellent alternatives, but adjust cooking times as necessary.What can I serve with these ribs for a complete meal?
Great sides include fries, coleslaw, or grilled vegetables, which balance the richness of the ribs nicely.How long should I wait before serving after frying?
Let them rest for 5 minutes to allow any steam to escape, further enhancing their crispiness.Is there a gluten-free alternative for the coating?
Try using gluten-free flour mixed with cornstarch for a perfect gluten-free option.Why is my coating falling off?
Ensure the ribs are well-coated in buttermilk before dredging them in the flour mixture, and avoid moving them too much before frying.Can I prepare these ahead of time?
Yes, you can marinate the ribs ahead and coat them just before frying to keep that crispy exterior.Are there any specific storage methods for fried items?
Store leftovers in an airtight container to minimize moisture and preserve crispiness. Use the oven or air fryer for reheating.
Conclusion
Crispy Deep Fried Spare Ribs are not only fun to make but also a hit with family and friends. With their crunchy exterior, flavorful meat, and versatile serving options, they are sure to become a favorite in your home. So, gather your ingredients and give this recipe a try; you won’t be disappointed! Please share your results and any variations you come up with—we’d love to hear your experiences!

Crispy Deep Fried Spare Ribs
Ingredients
Method
- In a large bowl, combine garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, black pepper, and salt.
- Add the spare ribs and rub the spice mixture all over the meat.
- Let them marinate for at least 30 minutes, or refrigerate for a few hours for more intense flavor.
- In a separate bowl, mix the all-purpose flour and cornstarch.
- Remove the marinated ribs from the bowl and dip each piece into the buttermilk, allowing any excess to drip off.
- Then, coat them in the flour and cornstarch mixture.
- Heat oil in a deep skillet or fryer to 350°F (175°C).
- Carefully place the coated ribs into the hot oil, frying them in batches for about 5-7 minutes or until they are golden brown and crispy.
- Remove the ribs and place them on a paper towel-lined plate. Serve hot with your favorite dipping sauce.