Instructions: 1. Soak dried mushrooms.

2. Cut ribs apart; then with a cleaver, chop each, bone and all, in 2-inch sections.

3. Boil water in a heavy pot. Add spareribs and cook, uncovered, 15 minutes. Drain. Rinse ribs under cold running water. Drain again.

4. Return ribs to pot. Add fresh cold water to cover. Cut soaked mushrooms in 1/4-inch slices and add, along with star anise, soy sauce and salt.

5. Bring to a boil. Then simmer, covered, until tender (about 45 minutes).

6. Blend cornstarch and remaining cold water to a paste; then stir in to thicken. Serve hot.

NOTE: This dish may be prepared in advance and reheated. The cornstarch paste, however, should be added just before serving.

If you would like to email yourself the recipe for later use, or share the recipe with your friends or family, enter the email addresses below and this recipe will be emailed to you and others as well.