Vietnamese Coconut Water Pork Ribs

Cut the ribs into bite-sized portions.

Finely dice the shallot and mince the garlic.

Place the ribs in a bowl, add the shallot, garlic, fish sauce, a generous amount of black pepper, and 1 tbsp of sugar. Mix well and let marinate for 30 minutes.

Heat a little oil in a skillet or saucepan. Add 1-2 tbsp of sugar and cook over medium heat until it turns a deep caramel color.

Add the marinated ribs along with the shallot and garlic directly into the caramel. Sear quickly so the meat browns and gets coated in a nice color.

Pour in the coconut water, nearly covering the ribs. Bring to a boil, reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for about 30 minutes until the meat is tender.

Remove the lid and continue cooking until the liquid reduces and turns into a thick, slightly glossy caramel glaze clinging to the ribs. Taste and adjust with a splash more fish sauce or a pinch of sugar if needed.