Filipino Tocino Glazed Spareribs with Pineapple Relish
A delightful fusion of tender pork spareribs glazed in a sweet and savory tocino marinade, complemented by a fresh and vibrant pineapple relish.

Preparation
Get these tasks done before you start cooking.
Marinating the Spareribs
- 1
Combine Marinade Ingredients
In a bowl, combine all the ingredients for the tocino marinade.
Tip: Use gloves when handling food coloring to avoid staining your hands.
- 2
Marinate the Ribs
Place the spareribs in a large ziplock bag or container and pour the marinade over them. Marinate in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours, preferably overnight.
Tip: Ensure the ribs are completely covered in the marinade for even flavor absorption.
Preparing the Pineapple Relish
- 1
Mix Relish Ingredients
Combine diced pineapple, red bell pepper, red onion, and cilantro in a bowl.
- 2
Season
Squeeze lime juice over and season with salt to taste.
- 3
Chill
Mix well and refrigerate until ready to serve.
How to Make Filipino Tocino Glazed Spareribs with Pineapple Relish
Total time: 4 h 40 min · Yields 6 servings
- 1
Grilling the Spareribs
Remove ribs from marinade, pat dry, and grill on medium-high heat until caramelized and fully cooked.
- 2
Baking as an Alternative
If grilling isn’t an option, bake at 350°F (175°C) for 2 hours, basting occasionally.
- 3
Final Glaze
Brush remaining marinade over ribs during the last 10 minutes of cooking for a glossy finish.
Chef's Tips
Further reading
Frequently asked questions
How long can I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Can I make this ahead?
Yes, you can marinate the spareribs a day ahead and prepare the pineapple relish a few hours in advance.
Can I substitute pork spareribs with another meat?
Yes, chicken or beef ribs can also be used and will work well with the tocino marinade.
What can I use if I don’t have rice vinegar?
Apple cider vinegar or white vinegar can be used as alternatives to rice vinegar.
Is the food coloring necessary?
No, it’s optional and only added for the traditional tocino’s signature red color.
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