Chinese Steamed Ribs with Black Beans

INGREDIENTS (makes 4 servings)

1 lb baby back ribs, cut crosswise into 1-inch pieces 

2 tbsp fermented black beans, rinsed well

1 tbsp finely minced garlic

1 tsp ginger root, grated on a microplane 

2 tsp cornstarch

1 tsp sugar

1 tsp Chinese cooking wine or dry sherry 

1 thai chili, minced (optional)

PROCEDURE

1. Prepare your steamer. I like using my wok, and a steamer rack; filling the wok with about 1 ½ inches of water. Bring the water to a simmer over medium heat. 
2. Meanwhile, cut between each sparerib to separate each rib tip. Place into a shallow, heat proof pan. 
3. Roughly chop the black beans, and add it to the pan with the ribs. Add in the remaining ingredients and toss everything together. 
4. Carefully place into your steamer, and steam for 25 minutes. 
5. Serve with rice and steamed vegetables for a complete meal!

NOTES: You can serve with finely sliced scallions.