The Mock McRib: A Culinary Confession

The first time I encountered a McRib, I was probably far too snooty for my own good, entrenched in the belief that “real” food came from scratch, preferably involving ingredients I’d foraged myself. I remember my cousin, a self-proclaimed McRib aficionado, practically begging me to try his. “Just one bite,” he pleaded, his eyes shining with the zeal of the converted. I reluctantly obliged, and while I wouldn’t say I instantly understood the McRib madness, I was intrigued. It was… undeniably delicious in its own, unapologetically processed way. This mock version, while certainly not haute cuisine, captures that same spirit of fun and satisfying, slightly-sinful indulgence.

Recipe Overview

• Prep Time: 2 minutes
• Cook Time: 4 minutes
• Total Time: 6 minutes
• Servings: 1
• Dietary Type: Not specified

Ingredients

• 1 (10 ounce) box Banquet Boneless Pork Rib Patty Frozen Meal (found in the frozen aisles of stores; includes corn & mashed potatoes)
• 3 pickle slices, like McDonald’s uses (use dill pickle chips)
• 2-3 slices of raw onion
• 1 mini sub roll (use Maiers or your best judgement in the bread aisle)

Equipment Needed

• Microwave

Instructions

1. Begin by preparing the Banquet Frozen Meal according to the package instructions. Usually, this involves placing the entire container in the microwave.
2. Heat the meal in the microwave as directed on the box. The cooking time will vary depending on your microwave’s wattage, but generally, it’s around 3-4 minutes. Ensure the pork rib patty is heated through.
3. Carefully remove the Boneless Pork Rib Patty from the container. The container will be hot, so use caution.
4. Place the heated pork rib patty onto the mini sub roll.
5. Using a spoon, carefully transfer all the sauce from the microwavable container onto the patty and bread. Distribute the sauce evenly to ensure every bite is flavorful.
6. Top the saucy patty with the pickle chips and raw onion slices.
7. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Expert Tips & Tricks

• The Banquet meal patty is considerably thinner than the McRib patty. If you want to replicate the thickness, consider purchasing two boxes and using both patties in your sandwich.
• For an extra layer of flavor, lightly toast the mini sub roll before assembling the sandwich. Be careful not to over toast as you want the bun to still be pliable.
• Don’t overcrowd your sandwich with pickles and onions. A few slices of each are all you need to get that classic McRib taste.
• If you’re not a fan of raw onions, you can quickly sauté them in a pan with a little oil until they soften slightly. This will mellow out their flavor.
• Experiment with different types of pickles. While dill pickle chips are the closest to the original, you could also try using bread and butter pickles for a sweeter flavor.
• If you prefer a spicier kick, add a dash of hot sauce to the sauce before spooning it onto the patty. Sriracha, Tabasco, or even a pinch of cayenne pepper will do the trick.
• Warm the bun in the microwave for a few seconds for an even softer texture.
• Consider adding a thin slice of American cheese for extra indulgence, melting it slightly with the residual heat from the patty and sauce.

Serving & Storage Suggestions

Serve your Mock McRib immediately while it’s hot and the bun is still soft. The sandwich is best enjoyed fresh.

If you have leftovers (unlikely!), it’s best to store the patty and bun separately. The patty can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. The bun will likely become soggy if stored with the patty. Reheat the patty in the microwave before reassembling the sandwich. Due to the nature of the ingredients, freezing is not recommended.

Nutritional Information

Nutrient	Amount per Serving	% Daily Value (Estimate)
Calories	450 kcal	23%
Total Fat	25g	38%
Saturated Fat	8g	40%
Cholesterol	40mg	13%
Sodium	1500mg	63%
Total Carbohydrate	45g	15%
Dietary Fiber	3g	12%
Sugars	10g	–
Protein	15g	30%

Note: This is an estimated nutritional breakdown. Actual values may vary based on specific ingredient brands and serving sizes.

Variations & Substitutions

• Spicy Mock McRib: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the sauce before heating, or use a spicy pickle relish.
• Deluxe Mock McRib: Add a slice of your favorite cheese, such as cheddar or pepper jack.
• Vegetarian “McRib”: Use a vegetarian riblet patty substitute and adjust cooking times accordingly. Look for a patty with a similar shape and texture.
• Gluten-Free Mock McRib: Find a gluten-free sub roll. While the Banquet patty is not inherently gluten-free, you may be able to find a similar frozen patty that is.
• Healthier Mock McRib: While the original is not known for health, you can make slight tweaks. Use a whole wheat bun and add extra raw vegetables like shredded lettuce and tomato.

FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)

Q: Can I bake the Banquet Boneless Pork Rib Patty instead of microwaving it?
A: Yes, you can bake it. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake the patty for approximately 15-20 minutes, or until heated through.

Q: What if I can’t find the exact Banquet Boneless Pork Rib Patty Frozen Meal?
A: Look for similar frozen pork rib patties with a similar sauce. The key is to find a patty that’s already sauced and ready to heat.

Q: Can I make the sauce from scratch?
A: While you could, the convenience of using the sauce from the frozen meal is part of the recipe’s charm. However, you can search online for McRib sauce copycat recipes to create your own.

Q: How can I make this Mock McRib more kid-friendly?
A: Cut the sandwich into smaller pieces or strips for easier handling. You can also omit the onions if your child doesn’t like them.

Q: Is it possible to make a larger batch of these Mock McRibs?
A: Absolutely. Simply purchase multiple Banquet meals and sub rolls, and follow the same instructions for each sandwich.

Final Thoughts

The Mock McRib is not about gourmet dining; it’s about a quick, satisfying, and slightly nostalgic indulgence. It’s a reminder that sometimes, the simplest pleasures are the most comforting. So go ahead, embrace the silliness, and give this recipe a try. Don’t forget the side of corn and mashed potatoes – it’s all part of the fun! And please, share your creations and any variations you come up with. Happy (mock) McRibbing!